New donor Frankie helps charity reach milestone
With the help of four-year-old flat coated retriever Frankie, UK charity Pet Blood Bank (PBB) has reached its 5000th donor.
After finding out about the charity's work through a friend, Frankie's owner, Carolyn Cox, registered him as a donor.
Frankie attended his blood donor session at Woodcroft Veterinary Centre in Cheadle, becoming the 5000th dog to donate blood to the charity.
Carolyn says: "Frankie is a wonderful dog who is a massive part of our family. I thought Pet Blood Bank was a wonderful idea. I would say to other dog owners who are thinking about bringing their dogs to donate, to do so, as one day it could be their family pet that needs a lifesaving donation.
"Having been devastated five years ago, when we lost our previous dog in a road accident, I feel comforted to know that Pet Blood Bank exists and is there to support our animals should they ever need this service, but without donations this would not be possible."
The charity is now in its seventh year. Commenting on their achievement, Wendy Barnett, head of clinical and professional services for PBB, said the charity was "absolutely thrilled".
She added: "We have had an incredible year so far; reaching our 5000th donor is true recognition of all our amazing donors and their owners, but the hard work to continue recruiting new donors never stops."
PBB says each donation could help save the lives of four other dogs and donors like Frankie are helping thousands of dogs across the nation each year.
Donation takes about five-10 minutes and dogs receive a full health check. All donors are given a drink of water, treat and goody bag, as well as an "I'm a lifesaver" bandana.
Visit www.petbloodbankuk.org to find out more.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
