Not enough people know that there’s a blood bank for animals in Australia and that it’s critically low on the blood it needs to save dogs’ lives. Pedigree and Clemenger BBDO Sydney are hoping to solve both of these problems.
The partners have launched Donate with a Mate, the world’s first human and canine blood donation service and they are calling on Australian dogs and their humans to donate together. Every dog that donates blood saves the lives of three dogs.
Clemenger BBDO Sydney Creative director, Brendan Willenberg, noted, “We do everything with our dogs. We go on walks, road trips, and drink at the pub with them and now, we can donate blood with them. We wanted an idea that would not only increase awareness for canine blood donations but also make owners feel more comfortable registering their dogs to be donors. With every one dog donor saving the lives of three other dogs, the more donors available the more dog’s lives we can save.”
The service was developed with the Australian Animal Blood Bank (AABB) and is led by ambassador, Dr Katrina Warren.
Following a call for registrations, Pedigree Donate with Mate blood donation service launched with an AABB donation van and a human donation van, giving dogs and their owners the opportunity to donate blood and support the cause.
Mars Petcare Australia portfolio marketing director, Renee Lewington, commented, “Every day, dogs around the country are taken to vets requiring blood transfusions. But the awareness of the fact that dogs can donate blood is so low amongst dog owners that there’s a critical shortage of canine blood across the country.
“Through Donate with a Mate, we’re hoping to raise awareness of the fact that our best mates can give blood, just like us, and to encourage Australians with eligible dogs to donate with their mates and help your dog save other dogs’ lives. Our goal is to significantly impact the number of donations for years to come.”
To find out more about the campaign, or to learn how to register your dog to donate blood, visit www.donatewithamate.com.au or www.aabb.com.au to find your local donation centre. Alternatively, speak to your local veterinarian about what options are available.
Credits:
Client: Pedigree, Mars Petcare
Creative Agency: Clemenger BBDO Sydney
PR Agency: Clemenger BBDO PR
Media Agency: Mediacom
