True or False: Human plasma transfusion is safe for canine patients.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only with crossmatching
• D. Only if dog is immunocompromised

Answer: (B)

Transfusion safety across species is the key idea here. Human plasma given to a dog carries antibodies and other proteins that the dog’s immune system can react to, potentially causing severe hypersensitivity, anaphylaxis, or hemolytic and inflammatory reactions. These risks remain even if you tried to “crossmatch,” because crossmatching addresses compatibility of red blood cell antigens, not the antibodies or proteins present in plasma that can affect canine tissues and immune responses. Being immunocompromised does not make this safer; if anything, it can worsen reactions. Therefore, human plasma transfusion is not considered safe for canine patients; the appropriate approach is to use canine-derived plasma or other veterinary-approved options when plasma is needed.