Pet blood bank service opening in Maidstone

Pet Blood Bank staff say they give pets a health check before they donate blood

A blood bank service for dogs is opening in Kent.

Pet Blood Bank UK will be holding life-saving blood donation days at Pennard Vets in Maidstone, which start on Saturday.

The charity is asking for the town's dog-owners to come forward to donate their pet's blood to help save other animals.

Nicole Osborne, from the charity, said they were "looking forward to meeting lots of new donors" to "help save the lives of dogs across the country".

Pet Blood Bank is just like the human blood service, but for dogs.

Every donation a dog gives can help to save the lives of up to four other dogs, said the charity.

To become a donor, your dog must weigh more than 25kg, be between the ages of one and eight, and be fit and healthy.

It is also important that they are confident, enjoy meeting new people, and having new experiences, the charity said.

The donation itself only takes 5-10 minutes, but owners should expect their dogs to be with the team for around 35-40 minutes.

Dogs receive a full health check from the Pet Blood Bank vet before donating and get showered with treats, fuss, and attention throughout their appointment.

They even get a goody bag and toy to take home.