Vet HQ Blood Donor Registry. Could your pet be a life saver

Vet HQ Blood Donor Registry

Blood donations can be truly lifesaving for pets in critical need. Transfusions are often essential for animals suffering from serious illness, disease, trauma, undergoing surgery, or affected by snake bites or poisoning.

At Vet HQ, blood is collected from healthy donor animals and used for transfusions in pets who are critically unwell. Dogs and cats are the most common donors, although other species may also be eligible. As with humans, animals have different blood types, making a diverse donor pool essential to ensure compatible matches are
available when needed.

Because donated blood can only be stored for a short time, cats 24 hrs and dogs up to 1 month, we rely on the ongoing generosity of our donor pets. Having local blood donors that are willing to come in at the last minute, if necessary, also enables us to provide this vital treatment in an emergency situation.

Dog donor criteria:

Under 8 years of age
Large breed dogs – over 20kg’s
Up to date with vaccinations, heartworm, flea, tick & worming preventatives
Free from certain diseases
Never received a blood transfusion

Cat donor criteria:

Under 9 years of age
Weigh 4kg or more with a lean body condition
Preferably indoor-only cats
Up to date with vaccinations, heartworm, flea, tick & worming preventatives
Never received a blood transfusion

What does the donation process look like?

Pet blood donation is very similar to blood donation in people.
As pets have specific blood types (dogs have 13 groups and cats have 3 main blood groups) we need to blood type potential donors to ensure precise matching to recipients.
A physical exam is performed before each donation to ensure to pet is healthy enough to donate.
A small amount of fur is clipped, the skin is cleaned and the blood is collected with specialised blood collection needles, vials and bags.
It is a safe process that is generally well tolerated, though some cats may require a mild sedation to remain still.
Dogs and cats can generally donate blood safely every 8-12 weeks

If you would like more information or get your pet registered as a Vet HQ Blood Donor please contact us.

MEET THE AUTHOR

Dr Jessica Green

Dr Jessica Green is Head Veterinarian at Vet HQ Darlinghurst. With extensive experience across Sydney, Melbourne, and New York, Jess brings expertise in both general practice and emergency care. She’s passionate about senior rescues and challenging medical cases, leading her team with empathy and enthusiasm. Jess believes in building lasting relationships with clients and their pets, delivering exceptional, individualised care at every visit.

Outside the clinic, she enjoys spending time with her family at the beach and is a proud enthusiast of Chihuahuas. Her philosophy says it all: “We don’t have to do this; we get to do this.”

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FAQs for our Vet HQ family

How do I know which Vet HQ clinic to visit - Darlinghurst or Double Bay?

Both clinics offer the same standard of care, shared medical records and a collaborative team. Many clients choose the location closest to home, while others visit a specific vet they love. If you are unsure, our team can guide you to the clinic that best suits your pet’s needs.

Can Vet HQ help if my pet needs urgent attention?

Yes. We can often see urgent cases on the same day at either our Darlinghurst or Double Bay clinic. If the situation is critical, call us right away and our team will advise the safest next step and prepare for your arrival.

What makes Vet HQ different from other vets in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs?

We combine warm, relationship-based care with advanced diagnostics, gold-standard cat facilities and a Fear Free approach. Many of our vets and nurses have been with us for years, providing genuine continuity and a familiar, trusted team for your pet.

Do you look after pets from outside Darlinghurst and Double Bay?

Absolutely. Many families travel to us from Surry Hills, Paddington, Bondi, Woollahra and across the Eastern Suburbs because they value consistent care and our wide range of services under one roof.

What should I expect during my pet’s first visit to Vet HQ?

You’ll meet a friendly team who takes time to listen, understand your concerns and get to know your pet’s personality. We explain everything clearly, discuss options and create a plan that suits your pet’s health and your family’s routine.

How do I book an appointment with Vet HQ, and what information should I have ready?

You can book online or call our Darlinghurst or Double Bay clinic. It helps to have your pet’s name, species, age, any current medications, and a brief summary of what you’ve noticed. If you have recent test results or notes from another vet, bring them along so we can get up to speed quickly.

Darlinghurst

Double Bay

Vet HQ Blood Donor Registry. Could your pet be a life saver