Refrigerated Canine Platelets Stay Viable Three Weeks
Washington State University researchers found refrigerated dog platelets can still help control bleeding after up to three weeks in storage.
Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Veterinary Medicine
Researchers at Washington State University found that canine platelets can be processed and refrigerated for up to three weeks while retaining their ability to help control bleeding. The findings were published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine.
Why it matters
Traditional room-temperature platelet storage keeps platelets viable for only a few days, limiting availability for animals needing transfusions. Refrigerated storage extends that window, reduces the need for specialized equipment, and makes shipping products easier.
In a study of 24 dogs at the WSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital, platelet products improved bleeding or helped prevent complications in 70% of cases, with no transfusion reactions documented. Whether refrigerated platelets remain effective beyond three weeks has not yet been determined.
The players
Washington State University
A public research university in Pullman, Washington, whose researchers conducted the study and whose Veterinary Teaching Hospital routinely maintains a supply of refrigerated platelets.
Dr. Jillian Haines
A veterinary researcher at Washington State University who has trained veterinarians and blood bank personnel from other institutions in the refrigerated platelet storage technique.
The details
Platelets are processed and refrigerated rather than held at room temperature under constant agitation, as traditionally done. They were administered to treat active bleeding, support surgeries and procedures carrying significant bleeding risk, or manage severe hemorrhage.
Timeline
Platelets can be refrigerated for up to three weeks while retaining bleeding-control ability.
Traditional room-temperature platelets remain viable for only a few days.
Veterinary Advances
The Washington State University study extends the work of its Veterinary Teaching Hospital blood bank, which already routinely maintains refrigerated platelets. The longer storage window addresses a long-standing limit on how long traditionally stored platelets remain usable.
Pet owners whose dogs need transfusions may benefit from a broader supply of platelets, since refrigerated storage reduces reliance on rapid use. Veterinary clinics may also find shipping and storage easier with refrigerated products.
The takeaway
Refrigerated storage could make platelet transfusions more accessible for dogs with serious bleeding. Continued research on dosing and longer storage will determine how widely the method can be used.
Further reading
For more on animal blood care, explore Veterinary Medicine coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Dailyfly News.
