Changes in gas composition and acid-base values of venous blood samples stored under different conditions in 4 domestic species.

Background: The effect of storage temperature and time on blood gas and acid-base values has been investigated intensively in cattle and dogs; however, data are lacking in other species.

Objective: The aim of our study was to evaluate changes in gas composition and acid-base values in venous blood stored at different temperatures and for different times in 4 domestic species in Italy.

Methods: Blood samples from Comisana sheep (n = 10), Maltese goats (n = 10), Ragusana donkeys (n = 10), and Thoroughbred horses (n = 10) were analyzed after storage at 23 degrees C (room temperature) for 15 minutes (group I), 23 degrees C for 1 hour (group II), 37 degrees C for 8 hours (group III), and 4 degrees C for 24 hours (group IV).