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Yorkie receives life-saving blood transfusion while at AHS

Posted at 10:53 AM, Oct 21, 2020
and last updated 2020-10-21 13:53:01-04

PHOENIX — An eight-year-old Yorkie mix was on the brink of death until she received a blood transfusion.

Officials with the Arizona Humane Society say Kimiko was brought to one of its shelters in early October and was severely anemic, emaciated, unresponsive and hypothermic.

Her situation was so grave, AHS’s Second Chance Animal Trauma Hospital veterinarians “weren’t sure she was going to make it,” but wanted to try anything they could to keep Kimiko alive.

That’s when they turned to an innovative medical procedure that doesn’t typically take place in animal shelters, a blood transfusion.

Veterinarians turned to another patient also receiving medical care to help with the lifesaving procedure.

Jasmine, a one-and-a-half year old Labrador Retriever mix being treated for a broken leg, was the perfect pup for the procedure.

Kimiko was given the transfusion and immediately started showing improvements in her vitals.

When Kimiko first arrived in AHS care she was unable to stand or eat due to being so weak, and now vets say she greets people by wagging her tail and even rolls over for belly rubs.

Both pups are still receiving ongoing care in AHS Foster Hero homes where they will continue healing in a loving and caring environment for a little over a month for Kimiko and approximately six weeks for Jasmine while her leg mends.

For those interested in making a lifesaving gift to help save other pets in need, please visit azhumane.org/donate.