When pets face trauma, surgery, or serious illness, blood transfusions can mean the difference between life and loss. Our dog blood donor program in El Dorado Hills, CA helps ensure lifesaving blood products are available when local pets need them most. As veterinary medicine advances, the demand for animal blood products has grown, and community-based donation programs now play a vital role in meeting that need.

If your dog meets donor requirements, they may be able to help save another pet’s life. Contact us at (916) 618-4700 or fill out the application form to learn more.

Become a Donor

What to Expect When Donating Blood

female vet drawing blood from golden retriever

Canine blood donation is carefully monitored and minimally invasive. The first visit includes a physical exam, blood typing, and screening tests to ensure your pet is a good candidate. This appointment typically takes about 30 minutes.

Approved donors may give blood up to once a month, though most pets donate only three to four times per year. Each donation visit is closely supervised, and we never collect more than a safe amount based on your pet’s size and health.

Benefits for participating donors include:

Complimentary blood typing
Pre-screening and annual lab work
Health exams
Fecal testing every six months
Preventive care support
Treats, praise, and plenty of affection

Beyond the health perks, donors become part of a compassionate community helping pets in critical need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do pets really need blood transfusions?

Yes. Blood products help treat anemia, clotting disorders, and blood loss from trauma or surgery.

Do animals have blood types?

Yes. Dogs have multiple blood types, which makes donor matching important.

Can blood be shared between species?

No. Blood products are species-specific.

How long does a donation appointment take?

Appointments are scheduled for about one hour, with the collection portion taking less than 30 minutes.

Will my pet need sedation?

Most donors do not. Some may receive mild sedation depending on individual needs.

Is special care needed after donating?

Most pets feel normal afterward. Mild tiredness may occur for less than 24 hours. Avoid neck leads or pressure on the neck area during that time.

Be Part of Something That Saves Lives

Blood donors help give other pets a second chance. If your dog meets the requirements and you’d like to learn more, we would love to hear from you.

Give us a call at (916) 618-4700 or fill out the form below.

Blood Donation Form

Pet Parent *

Pet Parent

First Name

Last Name

Address *

Address

City

State/Province

Zip/Postal

Phone *

Email *

Secondary Owner's Name

First Name

Last Name

Secondary Owner's Phone

Secondary Owner's Email

Patient Overview

Name *

Species *

Dog

Cat

OtherOther

Gender *

Neutered / Spayed? *

Yes

Breed *

Weight (lbs) *

Color *

Date of Birth *

Primary Veterinarian *

Patient Information

Current Medications (Please list medication names, doses, frequency, and the last time they were given) *

Please list any known allergies to medications or food. *

Current diet *

When did this pet become part of your family? *

Has your pet ever been ill? *

Yes

If yes, please explain.

Has your pet ever had a blood transfusion? *

Yes

If yes, please explain.

Has your pet ever had surgery? *

Yes

If yes, please explain.

Is your pet up to date on vaccines? *

Yes

Yes, for some of them

What flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives is your pet taking? *

Has your pet travelled with you in the last 12 months? *

Yes

If yes, where?

Lifestyle *

Active

Nonactive

Indoor Only

Are you willing to commit your pet to at least 4 blood draws per year? *

Yes

Maybe

Are you comfortable with a 2-4" area of hair being shaved from your pet's neck at each donation? *

Yes

Are you comfortable with your pet being sedated during the donation process? *

Yes

We ask that if you do not think you can commit to bringing your pet in 4 to 6 times per year to give blood that you do not volunteer for this program.

I, the undersigned owner or the agent of the owner of the above-described pet, give permission for the doctor(s) and staff of Insight Veterinary Wellness Center to perform an initial exam of my pet and collect lab specimens for submission, to determine if my pet is a blood donor candidate. I understand that there is no fee incurred today. If there are any abnormal findings that prevent my pet from becoming a blood donor, I understand it is my responsibility to follow up and incur any charges for further diagnostics and/or treatment.
In the event of an adverse reaction to the blood donation process performed today, I understand that Insight Veterinary Wellness Center will cover the cost of initial stabilization (IV catheter placement, fluids, oxygen) should this treatment be deemed necessary by the doctors at Insight Veterinary Wellness Center.

I, the undersigned, certify that I am the owner or authorized agent of the owner for the above-described pet. I authorize the doctors and staff of Insight Veterinary Wellness Center to sedate my pet (if necessary for donating) and collect blood today. I have been advised of the nature of the procedures and potential risks.

I will notify IVWC immediately if any health concerns or problems arise.

I authorize the use of my pet's image and first name only for promotional, marketing, and educational purposes.

I have read and agree to the terms listed above. *

Yes

If you are human, leave this field blank.

Emergency Services

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