A blood drive for people and dogs was held last week in Kiryat Anavim, a town west of Jerusalem. The event was held due to a shortage of blood products in veterinary hospitals, and to raise awareness about the need for lifesaving blood donations for both people and pets.
A Magen David Adom bloodmobile came to Vet Holim, one of a chain of veterinary clinics serving the Jerusalem region and Ein Gedi, where dog owners and other people donated 31 units of blood. Meanwhile, blood was taken from their dogs by the veterinary clinic. “This unique event showcased the importance of blood donations to save lives for humans and also for his best friend — the dog,” said Yaakov Mohadav, head of MDA’s blood donation services in Jerusalem.
“We thank NOAM Kol Ami Preparatory School for this exciting initiative that enabled Magen David Adom to take part.” The turnout of dog donors was greater than the capacity to take donations. The process for blood retrieval takes about one hour, so there was only enough time for four dogs to donate. The remaining pet owners were able to register their dogs and cats for future blood donations. “The cooperation between the two bodies, MDA and Vet Holim, is important for raising awareness about the need for blood donations for saving both humans and animals,” said Ophir Niv, director of Vet Holim.
“On both sides there is hope that this is the beginning of a special partnership.”