Meet Our Hero Blood Donors
These animals are blood donors for patients at the UC Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital who are in need of blood or plasma. In most cases, they help other animals who have experienced blood loss due to injury or surgical complications.
This page is designed to provide timely updates on their conditions and current happenings in their pastures. It's also an opportunity for visitors to get to know them better, learn about their behaviors, and discover if they can feed the animals.
Let's get to know them...
Fantika
Hello everyone! I’m Fantika, one of the UC Davis blood donor horses — and let’s just say, I’ve got a lot of personality! I love attention, especially when it comes with a good brushing or a snack (preferably both). When I’m not helping save lives by donating blood for horses in need, you can usually find me striking a pose in the pasture or chatting over the fence with my friends. I know I’m special — and I like to make sure everyone else knows it too! Life as a donor horse has been full of purpose and pampering, I love my job!
Ironess
Hello, I’m Ironess, one of the UC Davis blood donor horses. I’m usually a little on the quiet side, but since moving in with my new pasture friend Stakky, I’ve really come out of my shell! We get along beautifully, and I’m enjoying every moment of my new routine. Even though I’m naturally shy, I take my job seriously — donating blood to help other horses in need makes me feel proud and purposeful. I love peaceful mornings with great sunrises and hanging out with my herd. With Stakky by my side and such caring people looking after us, life here is simply fabulous!
Honey
Hello there! I'm Honey, a retired dairy Saanen goat. I've officially traded in my milking days for a well-earned life of leisure and purpose. Sweet by name and nature, I now proudly serve as part of the veterinary school's blood donor herd, helping other animals when they need it most. When I'm not being a hero, you’ll likely find me enjoying snacks, soaking up attention, and reminding everyone that retirement looks pretty good on me. Say hello — I'm always happy to make a new friend! Unfortunately, I'm on a strict diet, so please don't feed me snacks.
Champagne
Hi there! I'm Champagne, a retired Alpine dairy goat. I'm loving this next chapter of my life as a valued member of the veterinary school's blood donor herd. I help save lives every day. My job is to donate blood so that sick or injured goats can get the care they need. The people here make sure I’m comfortable and healthy, and in return, I get to be a hero in my own little way. True to my name, I try to bring a little sparkle wherever I go by remaining calm, classy, and always ready to lend a helping hoof. After years of hard work providing delicious and nutritious milk and treats for people, I now get to enjoy a slower pace here with plenty of treats for myself, and all the admiration my visitors give me. I'm loved and well cared for. I enjoy grazing in the sunshine, snacking, and spending time with my goat friends. Be sure to say hello — I like to be bubbly for all my guests! Unfortunately, I'm on a strict diet, so please don't feed me snacks.