Here's a thought: what would you do if your dog was injured so badly that he or she needed a blood transfusion? Wouldn't you expect your vet to have blood on hand? But, would that happen?

Well, this report at Sky.com talks about the subject of pet blood banks. An idea whose time has come, if you ask me. In the report, they say that in the UK, the first "mobile blood bank for dogs" is on the prowl for blood. (my description, not theirs) For instance, "The specially-designed trailer comes complete with weighing scales, waiting room and a hydraulic table where donations are given."

I found this story on Pet Charts, where there are a lot of adorable videos and pictures, but also a whole lot of news about the pet industry and pets in general. On the actual Pet Blood Bank site, out of the UK, they have a section for veterinarians and a section for pet owners. And, they are looking to start a similar procedure for cats, but they will likely visit cats in their home. We all know how much cats like going to the 'vet' - especially in that cat carrier (which I hope all of you are using; please do not take cats places in the car without putting your cat in a carrier, for his protection!)

After a bit of searching, I discovered this article in Dog Channel that talks about Hemopet, a Nonprofit Animal Blood Bank here in the U.S. that serves veterinary hospitals from near and far. Good to see us keeping up.

So, does your vet have blood on hand for emergency treatment of your dog or cat? Tell us...