Blood group
Blood type is a term that describes the different characteristics of red blood cells that are determined by a dog's genes. These characteristics are also called antigens and can lead to complications during a blood transfusion if they do not match those of the recipient.
What are the different blood groups in dogs?
In dogs, the blood groups are called Dog Erythrocyte Antigens (DEA) and are labeled with a number. There are more than 20 different blood types in dogs, but the most important are DEA 1.1 positive and DEA 1.1 negative, as they are the most common and can cause the strongest reaction.
DEA 1.1 positive means that the red blood cells carry this antigen, while DEA 1.1 negative means that they do not. The blood group is determined by a simple blood test that can be carried out in a veterinary practice or laboratory.
When does a dog need a blood transfusion?
A dog may need a blood transfusion for a number of reasons, for example:
- In the event of an accident or injury that results in severe blood loss
- In the case of a disease that affects the production or function of red blood cells, such as anemia or poisoning
- In the event of an operation where a high level of blood loss is expected or where artificial respiration is required
A blood transfusion can save a dog's life by improving oxygen transport in the body and stabilizing the circulation.
How does a blood transfusion work?
A blood transfusion is a medical procedure in which blood is transfused into a dog from another dog. Two venous catheters are inserted, one in the donor and one in the recipient. The donor's blood is then fed into the recipient via a tube and a filter.
The amount and duration of the transfusion depends on various factors, such as the recipient's weight, state of health and severity of blood loss. During the transfusion, both dogs are monitored to detect and treat possible side effects or complications.
How important is blood group compatibility?
Blood group compatibility is an important aspect of a blood transfusion as it reduces the risk of transfusion reactions. Transfusion reactions are unwanted immune responses of the body to foreign antigens in donor blood, which can lead to symptoms such as fever, chills, vomiting, diarrhea, shortness of breath or shock.
To ensure compatibility, the donor blood should ideally have the same blood group as the recipient blood or at least not contain any antigens to which the recipient has antibodies. Antibodies are proteins in the blood plasma that can recognize and destroy foreign antigens.
Unlike humans or cats, dogs have no natural antibodies against other blood groups. This means that a first transfusion usually goes smoothly, regardless of the donor's blood group. However, a first transfusion can lead to the recipient forming antibodies against the donor's blood and thus becoming sensitized to subsequent transfusions.
It is therefore important to carry out a compatibility test before any further transfusion to ensure that no antibody-antigen reaction occurs. This test is also called a crossmatch and consists of mixing a small amount of donor blood with a small amount of recipient blood and observing whether clumping or hemolysis (destruction of the red blood cells) occurs.
The DEA 1.1 blood group is the most critical, as it can trigger the strongest reaction. If a DEA 1.1 negative dog receives a transfusion from a DEA 1.1 positive dog, it can develop acute hemolysis, which can be life-threatening. Conversely, a DEA 1.1 positive bitch that has received a transfusion from a DEA 1.1 negative dog can endanger her puppies if they are DEA 1.1 positive. The mother's antibodies can be passed on to the puppies via the placenta or the mother's milk and cause neonatal isoerythrolysis, which also leads to hemolysis.
How can I register my dog as a blood donor?
If you want to register your dog as a blood donor, you must fulfill a number of requirements to ensure that it is healthy and poses no risk to the recipient. The requirements may vary depending on the veterinary clinic or blood bank, but they are usually
- Your dog must be between 1 and 8 years old
- Your dog must weigh at least 25 kg
- Your dog must be regularly vaccinated and dewormed
- Your dog must be free from infectious diseases such as leishmaniasis, babesiosis or ehrlichiosis
- Your dog must be free of medication that can affect the blood
- Your dog must have a good character and behave calmly
If your dog meets these criteria, you can find out from a veterinary clinic or blood bank in your area whether they accept blood donations and how you can register. You will then need to fill out a questionnaire and have your dog undergo a health check, which will also determine its blood type.
A blood donation takes about 15 to 20 minutes and is painless for your dog. He will be given a mild sedative injection and connected to a drip. After the donation, he will be given a treat and plenty of water. He should then rest for the rest of the day and not do any strenuous activities.
Donating blood is a noble gesture that can save other dogs' lives. If you decide to do this, you should have your dog donate regularly, about every three months. However, you should also be aware of possible side effects, such as tiredness, loss of appetite or swelling at the puncture site.
The authors assume that a veterinarian should be consulted if an animal is ill and that medication should only be taken after consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Only an individual examination can lead to a diagnosis and treatment decision.
We help you find the nearest vet → This way