DogExpress
Leicestershire, England: After six years, a greyhound who gave rare blood to help save up to 88 other canines has retired.
Woodie, from Melton Mowbray in Leicestershire, began donating blood when he was three years old and has now donated a total of 22 times.
“To know he has helped out families in distressing situations… it is amazing,” said Wendy Gray.
According to Pet Blood Bank UK, each 450ml (16floz) donation can benefit up to four dogs, and Woodie is a “superstar.”
According to the Loughborough-based charity, greyhound blood was especially sought after since it was more likely to be negative – meaning it could be given to any dog in any situation – and only 30% of dogs were considered to have this blood type.
Woodie is no longer eligible to give because blood is only taken from dogs aged one to eight.
Miss Gray stated that Woodie was always glad to donate and that the dogs are treated with “so much fuss and attention.”
“When he gets there, he squeaks and rushes up to the person that goes to meet him,” she explained.
“He remains still on the table until it’s all finished and then gets back up.”
“He adores it. He has no negative side effects and is ready for a four to eight-hour walk afterward.”
Miss Gray said she learned about pet blood donations after seeing leaflets at the vet’s office with her first dog, Rio, who donated 11 times.
“I appreciate the fact that we can pull it off. “If people can do it for humans, why can’t dogs do it for dogs?” she wondered.
Woodie has been an “absolutely fantastic donor,” according to Nicole Osborne of Pet Blood Bank.
Blood is essential for our pets, just as it is for humans, and Woodie’s generosity will significantly impact the lives of other dogs around the country.
Source: BBC
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