Blood donations saving lives among dogs and cats

CZESTOCHOWA, Poland (FOX NEWS) - It's often said you can save three lives every time you give blood, but what about your pets? A veterinary clinic in Poland is finding out.

Dogs and cats are showing up at a veterinary blood bank to save the lives of their respective species. The animals donate blood, just like humans do, but it doesn't look like the veins in their arms are used.

There are rules. In order to donate, the pets must be in peak physical condition. Dogs must be at least 57 pounds, while cats need to be at least eight. Also, the animals need to be between 10 months and seven years old, and had their required vaccinations.

In one visit, vets can remove up to 15 ounces of blood from dogs and nearly two for cats.

Specialists remind us blood is needed just as much with our pets as it is humans when they fall ill.