Kent's dogs are being encouraged to attend a lifesaving blood donation day to help save the lives of pups in need.

Pet Blood Bank UK has announced they will be in Tonbridge looking for donor dogs to attend their very first sessions.

On Saturday, December, 4, the charity will visit Priory Vets for the first time to run dog blood donation sessions.

Pet Blood Bank is just like the human blood service, but for dogs, they collect blood donations from donor dogs across the UK which then go towards helping to save the lives of other dogs in need.

Every donation a dog gives can help to save the lives of up to four other dogs and pups in Kent, as well as all dogs across the UK, have access to the lifesaving blood should they ever need it.

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 donation itself only takes five to 10 minutes, but owners should expect their dogs to be with the team for around 35 to 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, as well as the pride of being a lifesaver.

Following the first session that is taking place next month, Pet Blood Bank plans to visit every two to three months going forward, so owners are encouraged to register their dogs even if they will miss the first date.

A donation session also took place at the Shrubbery Vets in Northfleet on Sunday, November, 21.

Nicole Osborne, from Pet Blood Bank UK said: "We are so excited to launch our very first dog blood donation sessions in Northfleet and Tonbridge in Kent.

"We are looking forward to meeting lots of new donors and really getting the local community behind our mission to help save the lives of dogs across the country.

"We would love to hear from anyone interested in finding out more or coming along to our sessions."

If you are interested in finding out more and registering your dog as a donor, click here or call the charity directly on 01509 232222.

To read more about Kent’s furry, flying and finned friends, click here.

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