What is Proactive Cell Banking?
Proactive Cell Banking is a forward-thinking approach to your pet's long-term care. While your pet is under anesthesia for a routine procedure, like spay or neutering, a small amount of fat tissue is collected and processed to isolate cells for long-term storage. These cells are then preserved for potential future use, giving your veterinarian another option to consider if your pet needs cell-based care later in life.
Cells may be used as part of a veterinarian-directed plan to support comfort, mobility, and tissue or joint health. Like other parts of the body, cells change over time. Banking now helps preserve access to cells collected earlier in your pet's life, providing a valuable option if those moments arise.
Why Collect Cells Now?
- One & Done: The collection happens during a procedure your pet is already scheduled for, with no extra collection surgery later if cells are needed.
- Future-Ready: Cells collected earlier in life are stored and available if your veterinarian recommends them in the future.
- Cost-Effective: Early collection may reduce costs compared to harvesting cells later when additional procedures are needed.
- Peace of Mind: No ongoing storage concerns, no second-guessing - just long-term planning for future care.
How It Works
During a scheduled procedure under anesthesia, a small fat tissue sample is collected. This sample is sent to a specialized laboratory for processing and cell isolation. The cells are cryogenically stored until needed. If the time comes for Cell Therapy, your veterinarian can request the stored cells for preparation and administration with no additional tissue collection surgery required.
Which pets benefit from banking their cells?
Many pets may be good candidates for cell banking. The ideal time to discuss banking is during another routine procedure, such as a spay or neuter, when cells can be collected without scheduling a separate collection surgery. It may be a smart option for active and athletic animals, breeds prone to joint or mobility concerns, and animals with pre-existing orthopedic or soft tissue conditions that may progress over time. Early banking simply provides more options, access to cells collected earlier in life, and peace of mind for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the banked cells be transferred if we relocate or change veterinarians?
Yes. Your pet's stored cells can be sent to any licensed veterinarian or specialty hospital you choose in the future. They are not tied to one clinic or region, so your pet's access to regenerative care moves with you.
Can I plan for banking ahead of my pet's procedure?
Absolutely. It's best to coordinate in advance so the banking kit is ready on the day of your pet's surgery or scheduled sedation. Planning ahead ensures the process is seamless and requires no additional visits.
How long does the cell banking process take?
The collection itself adds only a few minutes to a routine procedure. After the sample is taken, all processing and long-term storage happen off-site, with no extra appointments needed.
How does cell banking interact with pet insurance?
Coverage varies by provider, but some insurance plans may reimburse regenerative therapies when they are used later. Banking cells now may make it easier to access those benefits if your pet needs therapy in the future. Pet owners are encouraged to check directly with their insurance provider.
Get Started
Does this sound like it might be right for your pet? Talk to your veterinarian today.
Give your pet the advantage of preparation - and the opportunity for more options tomorrow.
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