Why Is It Important To Know A Dog’s Blood Group?

Many people don’t know that dogs, like humans, have blood groups. It is extremely important to know your dog’s blood group type , as this can save lives through a blood transfusion.

In this article, we’ll discuss the different blood groups and why it’s so important that you know what your furry belongs to.

Blood groups: know the differences

Dogs have 8 blood groups, recognized by the acronym DEA (Dog Erythrocyte Antigen, or Canine Erythrocyte Antigen) and range from DEA 1.1 and DEA 1.2 to DEA 8.

The most common types are DEA 1.1 and DEA 1.2.

Blood types are identified and named according to the shape of the membrane that covers the blood cells.

Why Know Your Dog’s Blood Type

Dogs can bleed, get involved in accidents or need an operation where a transfusion is needed.

Unlike humans, dogs can receive any type of blood for the first transfusion without rejection.

However, if the dog needs to undergo another transfusion, this must be performed with a compatible blood type or the animal will present rejection, at risk of death. When blood of different types mixes, the red blood cells end up being destroyed, something lethal for your pet.

The best way to determine your pet’s blood type is through a simple blood test that can be performed by your veterinarian.

When a transfusion is needed

It’s very important to know our furry friend’s blood type, after all, we never know when he might have an accident.

A blood transfusion may be necessary in the following cases:

• Bleeding from disease. Dogs can develop some form of illness that leads to blood loss. If hemorrhages are constant, the animal’s life is in danger. In cases like these, transfusion is essential.
• Anemia. This is another reason why a transfusion may be necessary.
• Accident. An unexpected accident can cause serious bleeding that could take the life of your pet.
• Diseases that contaminate the blood.

Those are the main causes. However, there may be others.

where the blood is drawn from

Knowing that dogs receive transfusions, we can conclude that they can also donate blood.

This is another important reason why you should know your pet’s blood type. Although he doesn’t need it (which we hope will never happen), he could help other puppies who might need it by donating some blood.

For a dog to be a blood donor, it will undergo a battery of tests to demonstrate the pet’s perfect health.

The dog must be up to date with vaccinations, microchip tracking and all other legal requirements in the country.

Once the animal is shown to be a suitable donor, a blood sample will be taken to determine its blood type.

Knowing all this is reassuring, as the blood our four-legged friend might receive is trustworthy. On the other hand, making your furry donate a little to help those in need is priceless.

Don’t wait for something to happen to know your pet’s blood type. It’s better to be on the safe side and always be ready to help save your partner’s life and, who knows, that of others.