PET Blood Bank UK is calling on dog owners to help their pet give a special gift this festive season.

All large dog owners in Gloucestershire are being asked to come along to Vale Vets, The Animal Hospital in Dursley on Saturday, December 13.

Wendy Barnett, Head of Professional and Clinical Services and PBB founder, said: “We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our donor owners who have taken the time this year to bring along their dog to give blood.

“We understand how busy it is at this time of year, and an hour or two of your time can make all the difference not only to a much loved canine companion but also their family.

“Giving blood is the most precious gift to give and we urge all large dog owners to come forward and help save a life this Christmas.”

The appeal for lifesavers does not end with the festive season. Demand for blood is growing on average 25% year on year, and to meet this ever increasing demand, PBB currently collect over 2,000 units of blood from our community of donors across the country.

Ms Barnett continued: “We are delighted to see more and more lives being saved through vets having quick and easy access to blood, and we are working closely with the profession to bring in more donors.

“We give all our donors a full health check at each session. This gives both owners and their vet’s valuable insight to their pet’s health at regular intervals across the year.”

Karen Cox regularly brings along her rescue Greyhound to a Bristol session.

She said: “At our last PBB appointment, the vet noticed Bran’s gums were a bit red and to speak to my local vet about dental treatment. He ended up having some teeth taken out… I would hate to think that Bran had toothache and I didn’t know. It is really worth signing up your dog to be a blood donor as they have a mini MOT each time.”

All donors also receive a goody bag containing “I’m a lifesaver” bandana and toy of their choice.

Please help save another dog’s life by registering your dog to give blood on Saturday 13th of December at Vale Vets, The Animal Hospital, Stinchcombe, Dursley, Gloucestershire, GL11 6AJ. Simply call 01509 232 222 to register or visit www.petbloodbankuk.org