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Post by Brooke on Feb 14, 2004 20:28:01 GMT -5
Blood Bank Holds Drive For Doggie Donors Dog Owners Register Pets For Potential Donations
POSTED: 3:45 PM PST February 13, 2004
SAN DIEGO -- Now, your dog can be a blood donor, too.
In an attempt to raise awareness for the need for canine blood donations, the San Diego Blood Bank Friday held a "Paws for Pints" drive.
Dog owners were encouraged to bring their pets to the blood bank's Hillcrest center and register them for a countywide list of potential "doggie donors," said Mary Walter-Brown, the blood bank's public affairs manager.
"Like humans, canines need blood during operations all the time, and there is a real shortage of canine blood available," Walter-Brown said.
No blood was taken from dogs during the drive, but owners were encouraged to donate a pint while their canines were watched in the center's "barking lot," Walter-Brown said.
A veterinarian was on-site to explain the canine registry process and to answer any questions.
"We're trying to help facilitate a countywide registry of dogs to see if they have the right qualifications for the registry," Walter-Brown said.
Once on the registry, veterinarians can contact a dog's owner to see if the animal is available to donate blood when there is a need, Walter-Brown said.
A pet psychic conducted free "readings," and Petco provided free nail-trimming services and treats during Friday's drive. Copyright 2004 by TheSanDiegoChannel.com.
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