New platelet treatment launched for dogs
Platelet Concentrate can provide lifesaving haemostasis.
Pet Blood Bank UK has announced a new blood product available to treat dogs – Canine Platelet Concentrate.
After splitting the donated blood into different products, including red blood cells, plasma and the platelet components, the platelets can now be used on dogs who are experiencing excessive bleeding due to a low number of platelets.
Canine Platelet Concentrate can be used for short term reduction in bleeding, providing haemostasis and creating more time for further investigation of the problem or treatments to be administered.
The treatment can be used to manage uncontrolled or life-threatening bleeding due to severe thrombocytopenia or thrombopathia. The platelets could also be considered for use prior to surgery in dogs with hereditary thrombopathias and a known bleeding tendency in certain circumstances.
Wendy Barnett, clinical director at Pet Blood Bank, said: “We are proud to offer this new blood product to vets in the UK.
“Aligned with our mission to help save lives, we hope that providing quick and convenient access to Canine Platelet Concentrate will support vets across the UK who are treating dogs in what can be serious and life-threatening situations.
“Vets have been asking us for this product, so we are very pleased to now be able to offer it to them.”
Veterinary professionals can find out more about how to access and use Canine Platelet Concentrate here, and dog owners can find out more information on the Pet Blood Bank website.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
