Now, they are in urgent need of blood donations from cats and dogs to sustain the lifesaving procedure - and calling on the WA community for help.

Dozens of conditions, including severe blood loss from injury, anaemia, chronic or acute illness, coagulation disorders and parasitic infections can cause four-legged friends to need a transfusion.

Finding donors can mean the difference between a family losing their furry loved one and bringing them home.

Dr Claire Sharp, section head of TAHMU’s Emergency and Critical Care, said blood transfusions were essential for treatment.

“Blood transfusions will give an enhanced immune response as it restores platelets and other immune cells, helping the recipient fight infections more effectively,” Dr Sharp said.

After a transfusion, organs like the liver, kidneys and heart can function more efficiently, improving overall health.

Among the recipients of this year’s blood donations was Lauren Sandon’s dog CC. Lauren noticed behavioural changes in CC and sought out an opinion from her local vet.

In what all seemed like a blur to Lauren, CC was rushed to TAHMU for urgent tests as she began to rapidly decline.

“I was devastated and was crying with worry and concern – it was the worst long weekend of my life,” Lauren said.

“She declined to the point that we thought we were saying our last goodbye.”

The vets at TAHMU diagnosed CC with Immune Mediated Thrombocytopenia (IMT), an autoimmune condition that occurs when the immune system attacks and destroys the platelets which helps the blood to clot.

Lauren said it was like watching CC “losing her life force” before her eyes as the TAHMU team sprang into action.

In order to save CC, vets administered six packed red blood cell transfusions to treat the anaemia caused by the ITP. Packed red blood cells are separated from plasma.

CC was then given three fresh whole blood transfusions which had the platelet and clotting factors included. Fresh whole blood is collected from the donor in the collection bag which contains an anticoagulant, then transfused directly into the recipient.

TAHMU Blood Bank coordinator Clare Gaughan said the hospital urgently needed blood donations to save other animals just like CC, and that the donation process is more straightforward and efficient than commonly perceived.

“Both dogs and cats are screened before becoming donors. They both get a full blood screening, health checked by a vet and cats will get an echocardiogram,” Ms Gaughan said.

“Post donation they get a goodie bag to go home with, provided by our generous sponsors, with food and treats or preventative flea and wormer with treats.”

For Lauren and CC, the generosity of donors has given them the biggest gift – good health and time together.

From finding each other in 2019 to traveling together across the Nullarbor and experiencing true companionship, Lauren said CC was not just a pet, but her savior.

“She reminds me to slow down and appreciate the small things – to stop and smell the smells, and cuddle all the cuddles,” Lauren said.

From the very first day, the team at TAHMU have been nothing but angels. I had complete trust in their care and knew CC was in the absolute best place to ensure her recovery. I will never ever forget what they have done and continue to do for my CC.

If you would like more information about TAHMU’s blood donation drive, please call or email communitybloodbank@murdoch.edu.au