A Lifesaving Blood Donation for a Critically Ill Puppy

PORTLAND, Ore. – As National Superhero Day approaches on April 28, DoveLewis Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Hospital is celebrating a true superhero who embodies the spirit of giving—Olivia, a dedicated DoveLewis therapy dog and lifesaving blood donor. Olivia’s most recent blood donation played a critical role in saving the life of Jaxon, a 5-month-old puppy, who was rushed into the hospital facing life-threatening symptoms caused by rodenticide poisoning.

Jaxon arrived at DoveLewis with signs of lethargy, pale gums, and abnormal bleeding. The veterinary team quickly diagnosed him with coagulopathy, a condition that prevents proper blood clotting, and anemia, likely caused by rodenticide poisoning. This type of poisoning is particularly dangerous, leading to uncontrolled bleeding and putting an animal's life in jeopardy.

As Jaxon’s condition grew more critical, one thing became clear: he needed a blood transfusion, and fast. That’s when Olivia arrived for her routine donation. A therapy dog and regular donor for the DoveLewis Blood Bank, Olivia just happened to be in the right place at the right time, and her blood type was a match for Jaxon.

An emergency veterinarian stood ready as Olivia finished donating. The moment her donation was processed and complete, the lifesaving blood was rushed straight to Jaxon. Within moments of the transfusion, his vitals began to stabilize. His anemia improved, his clotting levels normalized, and the playful puppy spark began to return.

“Blood donations are easy and fun for Olivia,” said Olivia’s owner, Grace Epstein. “She enjoys her post-donation treat and picking a special toy from the treasure chest. The need for blood products to help sick and injured dogs and cats is very real. Healthy dogs like Olivia regularly donate so that patients at DoveLewis can recover and return to their families happy and healthy.”

This donation marked Olivia’s 16th time giving blood to help animals in need. “Every blood donation is vital, but in emergencies like Jaxon’s, it’s the difference between life and death,” said DoveLewis Blood Bank Director Kelsey Reinauer, CVT. “Thanks to Olivia, we were able to save Jaxon’s life, and she serves as a perfect reminder of how important blood donations are to critically ill pets.”

As National Superhero Day draws near, DoveLewis is proud to celebrate Olivia and all the animal blood donors who play an essential role in the hospital’s lifesaving efforts. “We call our blood donors ‘superheroes’ because their willingness to help makes lifesaving differences for so many animals,” said Reinauer. “Olivia is a wonderful example of that commitment.”

DoveLewis relies on a dedicated team of volunteer blood donors, both dogs and cats, to provide critical blood products for patients. For those interested in learning more about your dog becoming a blood donor or contributing to DoveLewis’ lifesaving mission, visit www.dovelewis.org/blood-donors.

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