THE IMPORTANCE OF BLOOD COMPATIBILITY IN TRANSFUSION REACTIONS IN DOGS

Abstract

Blood transfusion is an important therapeutic procedure in veterinary medicine, but it is not without risks. Transfusion reactions can occur especially when there is incompatibility between the donor and recipient blood, which can lead to acute hemolysis, shock, and even death of the patient. Dogs have different blood groups, called Dog Erythrocyte Antigen (DEA), and although they do not present clinically significant natural alloantibodies for immediate reactions, sensitization after previous transfusions can trigger severe immunological responses in subsequent transfusions (Costa, 2024). This study aims to highlight the importance of blood compatibility in dogs in the face of transfusion reactions, gathering updated information from the veterinary literature. This is a literature review study, in which scientific articles, veterinary manuals, and academic works on hemotherapy in dogs were consulted. The frequency of DEA blood groups, possible immunological reactions resulting from incompatibility, and prophylactic measures are discussed. It is concluded that checking blood compatibility is essential for transfusion safety in dogs, significantly reducing the risk of serious reactions.