Plasma collection and transfusion.

Plasma collection and transfusion

A plasma transfusion can be a life changing treatment for sick cria and occasionally adults. Plasma is the portion of the blood which contains antibodies and our vets can transfuse this directly into the bloodstream of the cria. This boosts the crias antibody levels if they are low (for example following a difficult birth, the dam has little colostrum or the cria has not taken enough colostrum in the first 24 hours of life) or if they are fighting a severe infection such as septicaemia.

We are experienced at collecting blood from adult (ideally male) donors in preparation for the birthing season.  Due to risks of disease transmission we recommend you must use plasma from animals from your farm ONLY. Therefore it is best to be prepared by collecting blood for processing into plasma BEFORE you need it urgently. If the blood is processed in a closed system (which can be done through Pet Blood Bank) the plasma will last for 5 years frozen and can be defrosted (gently in a warm water bath, do not microwave!) as required.

Our vets can then administer this into the vein of the cria or in some critical situations, sick adults as well as providing a full assessment and any other treatments required as well as advice on preventing problems in the future.