Without a K9 Volunteer Blood Donor, Harley Might Not Have Been Able to Go Home
In spring of 2018, "Harley" sustained an unfortunate vehicle accident. She was thrown out of her owner’s vehicle. The extent of her injuries were not known. Initially, her owners were not sure if she was going to make it. They had driven to western Loudoun County to visit friends and were unfamiliar with the area. A good Samaritan saw that they were in need and offered to help them navigate to the nearest ER Vet. Upon triage by Blue Ridge Vets, her prognosis was guarded. She had a broken upper palette, lost a lot of blood, and suffered a great bit of damage to her leg. Harley’s vitals were stable, but she was not in great spirits. It wasn't until her doggy sister Bella was walked past her bed that she really perked up. This was a good sign! Harley was in BRVA's care for two weeks. She received a blood transfusion and surgery to repair the damage to her mouth. After 3 months of physical therapy and laser treatment, it was determined it was best for her mobility to amputate her leg. Learning about the process of dog blood banking after Harley received a lifesaving transfusion, her family knew they had to help! Bella her sister came to donate with us the following year, and once Harley was completely healed and mobile, she became a donor too. Their entire family tells everyone they meet that dogs can give blood and save lives too. Without willing donor families like the ones that give so selflessly in our program, Harley might have never come home.
Coming soon, more lifesaving stories from the recipients of our blood products!
