01/07/2009

July Newsletter

Blood donors

In certain situations dogs and cats require blood transfusions just as humans do. Over the last few months we have had a run of dogs requiring blood transfusions for a variety of different conditions. We do not have stored blood on site, and usualy rely on donor dogs 'helping out'. Dogs and cats have different blood groups just like humans. Ideally it is best to type the blood of a donor and recipient before the transfusion takes place. However provided a dog has never had a transfusion before it can be given any type of blood as a 'one off'. This can not be repeated as a dog would then form antibodies against the different blood and reject subsequent transfusions. Cats have pre-formed antibodies against the different blood groups and so always have to be typed. We are looking for people to register with the practice if they think their dog would be a suitable donor. Donors must be between 2 and 6 years of age, weigh over 25kg, be fully vaccinated, must NOT have travelled abroad and have a good temprament. Ideally they must live close to the practice, as we usually need a donor at very short notice. Please contact the practice if you think you may be able to help out.

Goodbye Tara

Tara Ryan undertook work experience with us whilst she was still at school, and then joined us six and a half years ago, once she had left school. She trained at the practice and became a qualified Veterinary Nurse in 2007. Tara has always been passionate about veterinary nursing, and has taken a very active role at the practice, including helping to run our puppy parties and doing further training in canine physiotherapy. Her hard work has been rewarded by the offer of a Head Nurse's position. She will be moving to a practice in Oxford at the end of July. We will all miss her cheerful disposition, as I'm sure will many of our clients. We all wish her well in this exciting new phase of her life.

Hello Mandy

Mandy Spicer will join us officially in August. She has just sat her exams after taking a one year course to become an animal nurse auxillary. Throughout this course Mandy has spent 2 days each week at Summerhill, mainly assisting with our hospitalised patients. She will enroll to become a trainee nurse when she joins us, which is when our clients will start to meet her. Mandy has decided to train as a veterinary nurse later in life, and so brings with her a wealth of experience which includes running a dog's sanctury in Spain.

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