Tango the greyhound donates blood to help save dogs across the city

For Tango the greyhound, the simple act of laying still every two months means saving countless lives.

Nine-year-old Tango is a regular donor to Murdoch University’s blood bank along with more than 20 other dogs.

Her blood is used in urgent transfusions for dogs hurt in incidents including car crashes or for treatment of conditions.

Murdoch University blood bank co-ordinator Michelle Rouffignac said more donor dogs and cats were needed to keep up with demand.

“Our case load is going up — last month we transfused 35 blood bags — it is usually about 20,” Ms Rouffignac said.

“We are actively recruiting donors at the moment. Trying to keep up is crucial for us.”

Ms Rouffignac said a calm demeanour and big build was vital for pets in the donor program.

“We select specifically for calm dogs,” she said.

Greyhounds, great danes, dobermans, rottweilers, kelpies and golden retrievers have been used in Murdoch’s blood bank - the largest of its kind in the State.

Tango’s owner and veterinarian Nahiid Stephens said that when she discovered her dog was suitable to donate blood, it was a no-brainer to get involved.

“We take it for granted as humans that we have a resource to turn to if we are sick or injured,” she said.

Murdoch emergency and critical care veterinarian Melissa Claus said the blood bank worked in the same way as the Red Cross. “The blood gets processed into its components — plasma and red cells — in a centrifuge,” Dr Claus said.

To get involved contact community bloodbank@murdoch.edu.au