Speaking for our donating...through the EVBB...it's very easy and quick.
They visit different vets around the area (they're based in Annapolis, MD)...MD, NoVa and WV. We get a scheduled date/time to visit. The first visit is just to see how they'll handle the restraint. The vet tech gets on the table with the dog, lies down alongside the dog, throws a leg and an arm over the dog and holds them in place. That's all they do for the first visit...plus they turn on the pump to see how they handle the noise. For a real visit, after the tech gets the dog restrained, the then vet clips an area on the neck, and inserts the needle. The pump makes it faster...so it only takes 10-15 minutes. My guys all use the pump...so it's quick. After they get a certain amount, they pull the needle out, put pressure on the spot for a while...still restrained. Then they let the dog up and put them on the floor. They dump handfuls of treats and crappy dog food (candy!) on the ground...and/or feed them peanut butter. (sometimes they get PB while on the table too).
They get a bandana or toy many times too...from Science Diet or volunteer groups (we got a V-day bandana from a local 4-H group).
Sawyer loves it...he thinks it's all great fun. Score did not like the restraint by a stranger (I wasn't in the room the first time)...and he's still a bit spooked. They have to be voluntary!
![Very Happy :D](./images/smiles/icon_biggrin.gif)
Xander was never pleased to go in...but was SOOOO good, and recovered with no major emotional trauma...so I kept it up for a few years for him. He retired last year, due to age.
For the EVBB, the dogs have to be over 35# and in good health. They get a HW test as part of the blood donation...and typing too. Also, if they ever have surgery and have donated long enough...they get a free packet of blood if needed. They can donate every three months.
![Very Happy :D](./images/smiles/icon_biggrin.gif)
"I don't have any idea if my dogs respect me or not, but they're greedy and I have their stuff." -- Patty Ruzzo
"Dogs don't want to control people. They want to control their own lives." --John Bradshaw