Why do we need blood donors?: Blood Transfusion
Individuals donate blood that is stored in banks and used
when an individual requires a transfusion. Blood transfusion is needed in cases
where the patient suffers from severe blood loss, severe infection, liver
disease, anemia, and more.
Donor Dogs & their Abuse
Just like humans, dogs also require blood transfusions in
certain surgeries or medical conditions, creating the need for donor dogs that
can provide canine blood. The procedure of collecting blood from donor dogs is
painless and quick. The dog is made comfortable and blood is taken from its
jugular vein in a matter of 15 to 30 minutes. The dog is given enough
reassurance throughout and treats for positive reinforcement in the end.
But what happens when selling canine blood is turned into
exploitative business practice?
Greyhounds are universal blood donors as their blood is
compatible with all breeds. There are canine blood “banks” that breed
greyhounds and sell their blood to hospitals. Hemopet is rumored to be such a
book bank, located in California, USA. They house around 200 greyhounds, most
of which are retired racing dogs. Racing dogs are usually euthanized after
their career. The organization started as a way to save these canines from
being euthanized and providing universal blood to other canines at the same
time.
But there have been serious allegations against their care
for their dogs. There have been rumors of them mistreating canines by
constricting them to small cages for 23 hours at a stretch. Other allegations
include drawing blood from unhealthy dogs suffering from anemia, infections and
incurable diseases such as lupus. The deprivation of normal life and emotional
neglect of these dogs cause them immense distress and are the cause for
frequent fights between canines that leave wounds. There are allegations that
the staff of Hemopet does not take the right measures to prevent these fights
and leave the inflicted wounds untreated, causing infections.
Hemopet has denied these allegations and continue to vouch
for their dogs being treated well and kept in safe, habitable and caring
environments. But the public is not convinced.
What can you do to help?
First and foremost, we can do our bit by spreading awareness
about this case.
SMBT has also gathered a list of petitions you can sign to
put a stop to the cruel acts of Hemopet.
For more informative blogs, visit www.smbt.com
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