Not All Heroes Wear Capes… Some Wear a Fur Coat

Heroic acts are on our mind with Superman Day approaching June 12th… but not all heroes wear capes. Some like Indy wear a fur coat! Dedicated PVE nurse Leah brought in her brave pup Indy one Saturday night to donate for the blood bank. Proving how invaluable this selfless service is, just two days later this blood helped save the life of a very sick Kelpie by the name of Grudge when he was admitted to PVE with a ruptured spleen.

After two days of lethargy, increasing breathing effort and decreasing hunger, concerned owner Phil bought 13-year-old Grudge into PVE. On examination, Grudge was anaemic, dehydrated and showing signs of hypovolemic shock, where the heart cannot pump enough blood around the body due to severe blood or fluid loss.

Treatment and Diagnosis

Comprehensive blood tests were performed, alongside radiographs and an ultrasound. Doctors found an abdominal mass in the spleen causing an accumulation of blood. As masses are usually very life-threatening cancers, Grudge was quickly taken into surgery to remove the likely malignant mass and spleen.

The fight was not over however, when on recovery Grudge suddenly became pale and lethargic. Dr Hayley quickly began a blood transfusion using Indy’s recently donated blood, and within an hour or so Grudge had improved significantly and was on a speedy road to recovery.

A blood transfusion can mean the difference between life or death. Canine blood can only be stored for one month – so regular donations are encouraged to help us use this life-saving treatment when emergency strikes. Help your pup, and other pups by getting involved with the blood donation service.

Criteria to donate blood:

• Calm temperament
• Over 25kg
• Between 2-7 years of age
• Healthy

Have no fear, we will thoroughly ensure they are healthy enough to do so beforehand. To find out more call Perth Vet Emergency on 1300 040 400 (or your local animal emergency service)

Thank you for saving a life, Indy!