Blood Donor FAQs

Call IndyVet at (317) 782-4484 to schedule a donor evaluation consultation. This includes a physical exam, behavioral assessment, and a small blood sample to determine blood type and overall health.

To get started, please fill out the Donor Pre-Registration Form found online prior to your appointment. This helps our team review your pet’s information in advance and ensures a faster, smoother consultation experience.

We deeply value our donor heroes. Benefits include:

• $100 Visa gift card (expires in 1 year)

• $50 IndyVet credit for emergency/specialty care, prevention, or donor care

• 40% off ProHeart® (6-month or 12-month heartworm prevention)

Rewards card after every six donations

Our specially trained collection technicians make donations quick, safe, and low-stress. Using positive reinforcement (and light sedation when needed), your pet is gently positioned on their side while a small area is shaved and cleaned.

The donation itself takes about 10 minutes, followed by treats, cuddles, and lots of love. Please allow about 45 minutes for the full appointment. Red blood cells naturally replenish within 2–3 weeks.

Donation amounts are tailored to your pet:

• Dogs over 50 lbs: ~450 mL (16 oz)

• Cats: ~60 mL (about 4 tablespoons)

Most dogs do not require sedation. If a pet is anxious, a small amount of light sedation may be used. All feline donors are lightly sedated for safety and comfort. Sedation typically lasts 15–25 minutes, and pets are closely monitored the entire time.

Dogs: every 6 weeks

Cats: every 8 weeks

Each donation is separated into:

• Packed red blood cells

• Plasma

One donation can help 2–4 pets in need. Red blood cells last 42 days, and plasma can be stored for up to 5 years.

Blood transfusions are often needed in emergencies such as:

• Trauma or internal bleeding

• Surgery complications

• Cancer

• Toxic ingestion

• Immune-mediated diseases

• Severe anemia

Yes!

Dogs: Have multiple blood types (DEA system). The most important is DEA 1. Some dogs (DEA 4 positive only) are considered “universal donors.”

Cats: Have three blood types: A, B, and AB. Type A is most common. There is no universal donor in cats, so matching is critical.

Yes. The procedure is safe and carefully controlled. Blood cells are naturally replaced within 2–3 weeks, and pets typically return to normal activity quickly after their visit.