« Back to News

Police Canine Blood Donors

DOGS from the police's port unit in Stranraer are being put forward as potential blood donors for sick and injured canines.

Six Springer spaniels from the ports unit will have their blood tested to see if they are suitable donors. The scheme was inspired by a similar initiative run by the Scottish Police Dog Training School in Glasgow.

The dogs' details will be registered with the Academy Veterinary Centre and the Shire Veterinary Practice in Stranraer. If a dog needs a blood transfusion vets will then be able to call on the services of the ports unit dogs.

Detective Sergeant Anne-Marie Shankly has been the driving force behind the scheme. She said: 

"I found out about the scheme run by the Scottish Police Dog Training School in Glasgow and thought it was a great idea.

"Dogs, like humans, sometimes need blood transfusions and we would expect our dogs to be given the treatment they need.

"Our dogs are very fit and healthy and therefore able to donate their blood to less fortunate animals in need of their help."