The Canadian Animal Blood Bank (CABB) achieved a historic milestone in Brantford as the Brant Norfolk Veterinary Clinic hosted Canada’s largest single-day canine blood donor clinic on Thursday.
Thirty dogs participated in the event, setting a new record for Ontario and coming close to the national record of 32 donors, set in Winnipeg in 2021.
CABB, established in 1996, has been working to meet the growing demand for canine blood products across the country. Since its inception, more than 2,000 dogs have donated, providing over 20,000 units of lifesaving blood. Each donation, amounting to 350-450 milliliters, has the potential to save up to three dogs, supporting conditions such as cancer therapy, immune-mediated diseases, trauma, surgery, and poisoning.
Dr. Sarah Martin, a veterinarian overseeing the clinic, praised the event’s success and highlighted the adaptability of the dogs.
“The donation process is quick and stress-free. The dogs enjoy it, especially with their owners by their side. Treats and affection are part of the process to ensure their comfort,” she said. “The need for blood is constant because products expire, so having a reliable supply is essential. Clinics like this help meet that demand.”
Nicole Arruda, development manager at CABB, emphasized the importance of large-scale clinics and community involvement. “Brant Norfolk Veterinary Clinic has been instrumental in our mission,” she said. “Dr. Martin even supervises these clinics on her time off. The clinic’s connections with local veterinary practices and their commitment to providing space have been invaluable.”
Arruda’s dedication to canine blood donation stems from personal experience. Her dog Cloud, now almost 11 years old, survived a life-threatening case of parvovirus as a puppy, thanks to a transfusion.
“That experience shaped my career,” she said. “Large-scale clinics like this are critical for supporting pets in need.”
The demand for canine blood products has increased significantly, with needs ranging from routine surgeries to emergency trauma cases. Last month, two Ontario dogs struck by crossbow bolts required multiple transfusions to survive. Events like the Brantford clinic ensure a sufficient blood supply during peak times, such as the holiday season, when emergencies are more common.
Dog owners also play a crucial role in supporting this effort. Victoria Campbell, whose dog Maple has donated five times, described the experience as both rewarding and simple.
“It’s super simple—30 minutes, lots of snuggles, and you can save three lives with one donation,” she said. Her rescue dog Summer also joined the clinic for her first donation. “As someone who fosters animals, I know how critical this is. It’s an amazing way to help the animal community.”
CABB’s mission extends beyond individual clinics. The organization is expanding its presence, launching its first clinic in Nova Scotia in January 2025 and increasing operations in Ontario and Manitoba. Arruda noted that the ultimate goal is to establish a coast-to-coast presence to meet the growing demand for canine blood products across Canada.
Brant Norfolk Veterinary Clinic, operational since 2006, remains steadfast in its commitment to these lifesaving efforts. Its facilities, typically closed during regular weekday business hours, open specifically to accommodate donation clinics. The clinic operates from 4 p.m. to 8 a.m. on weeknights and continuously from Friday evening through Monday morning. As an after-hours facility, it is dedicated to providing critical support when other clinics are unavailable.
As CABB continues its mission to save lives, the Brantford clinic exemplifies the power of community and collaboration. With each donation capable of saving multiple lives, events like these underscore the vital role of canine blood banks in veterinary medicine.
The next canine blood donor clinic at Brant Norfolk is scheduled for March 27, 2025. Interested dog owners can contact Nicole Arruda at narruda@canadiananimalbloodbank.ca. Donor dogs must weigh 55 pounds or more, be between one and eight years old, up to date on vaccines or titres, and in good health with a calm temperament.
