Santa Monica Assemblymember Bloom introduces AB366 to modernize animal blood banking in CA

(FOX 11) - Santa Monica Assemblymember Richard Bloom introduced Assembly Bill 366 on Monday, also known as the California Pet Blood Bank Modernization Act, which is aimed at allowing animal blood banks in California to utilize a more humane donor blood collection system for dogs and cats.

Did you know that existing California law requires animal blood banks to collect blood exclusively from 'closed colonies' - which confines donor animals to cages and kennels for months or even years. While other states allow blood banks to collect animal blood in a voluntary setting.

Volunteer animal blood donor programs have recently been established in many University-based veterinary teaching hospitals, including UC Davis, as well as veterinary referral and emergency clinics.

'We can do so much better for the animals in our state. California's pet blood banking system is outdated and inhumane; this bill balances animal welfare and the need for safe, essential animal blood through voluntary, community-based collection methods', said Assemblymember Bloom in a statement on his website.

According to the Rescue + Freedom Project, 'The CA Pet Blood Bank Modernization Act will not only save lives but will also ensure that dogs and cats are no longer held captive for their blood. Animals held in captivity suffer emotional and psychological trauma and they often suffer physical injuries.'

'Every other state in the U.S. allows this volunteer model, and it has proven not only successful, but efficient and a wonderful way to enhance the human-animal bond ', said Shannon Keith, California attorney and President of Rescue + Freedom Project.'