Collection and preparation of blood products

Blood-component therapy has become an integral part of veterinary practice. Although access to veterinary blood banks has increased, practitioners may prefer to create their own blood-donor program to provide for their blood-product needs or to respond to an emergent need. Before embarking on such an endeavor, it is important to understand the techniques and requirements for such a program. This article will discuss issues in donor selection and management, supplies and techniques of blood-component acquisition, and supplies and techniques of blood-component preparation.