A new Garstang blood bank service for dogs is appealing for local donations when it arrives this December.

Pet Blood Bank UK has partnered with Lanes Vets to run lifesaving blood donation days and is searching for donor dogs to attend their first session on Saturday 4 December.

Pet Blood Bank is similar to the human blood service, but for dogs. They collect blood donations from donor dogs across the UK, which are used to help save the lives of other dogs in need.

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Nicole Osborne from Pet Blood Bank UK said: “We are so excited to launch our very first dog blood donation session in Garstang.

“We are looking forward to meeting lots of new donors and really getting the local community behind our mission to help save the lives of dogs across the country. We would love to hear from anyone interested in finding out more or coming along to our session at Lanes Vets in December.”

Every donation can help to save the lives of up to four other dogs. Dogs in Lancashire and others across the UK will have access to the blood should they ever need it.

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To be a donor, dogs must weigh more than 25kg, be between the ages of 1 and 8, and be fit and healthy. They must also be confident, enjoy meeting new people and having new experiences.

It is the first time the charity has visited Garstang to run dog blood donation sessions, and they are excited to welcome new donors.

The donation takes 5-10 minutes, but owners should expect their dogs to be with the team for around 35-40 minutes.

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Dogs receive a full health check from the Pet Blood Bank vet before donating. They also receive treats, fuss, and attention throughout the appointment. They then receive a goody bag and toy, as well as the pride of being a lifesaver.

Following their first session on Saturday 4 December, Pet Blood Bank plans to visit Garstang every two to three months, so owners are encouraged to register their dogs even if they miss the first date.

For more information, visit www.petbloodbankuk.org or call 01509 232 222.

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Will you and your dog be attending? Let us know in the comments below