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Celebrate National Senior Pet Month with tips for caring for older dogs and cats, recognizing signs of aging, and supporting senior pet health.

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Learn how to recognize subtle signs of cancer in dogs and cats and why routine veterinary care matters for early detection.

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Bringing home a new puppy, kitten, or adopted pet? Enjoy a free first exam, free parasite prevention, and more with our Welcome Home savings!

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Keep your dog or cat safe this Halloween with tips for managing anxiety, preventing escapes, avoiding toxic treats, and reducing holiday hazards.

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Dr. Roy Madigan, D.V.M., is not just a veterinarian. He is one of the leading experts in canine Chagas disease in the United States.
 
• Founder of Vida Pharmacal, focused on breakthrough parasitic disease treatments
 • Filed the first veterinary drug patent for anti-T. cruzi activity in dogs
 • Principal scientist for the U.S. military working dog Chagas treatment study
 • Veterinary lead for the Texas Chagas Task Force alongside the CDC and UT Health
 • Pioneer in developing diagnostic and treatment protocols for infected dogs
 
Your pet is being treated by the same expert helping shape how Chagas disease is understood nationwide.

Get In Touch

Chagas disease progresses in stages. The earlier it is identified:
 
 • The more treatment options are available
 • The better heart damage can be managed
 • The higher the chance of improving quality of life
 
Waiting can mean irreversible cardiac damage.

Early Detection. Advanced Treatment. Led by One of the Nation’s Top Experts.

Do not wait for symptoms to appear.

Chagas disease is often silent early on, but warning signs may include:
 
 • Lethargy or decreased activity
 • Fainting or collapse
 • Irregular heartbeat
 • Difficulty breathing
 • Unexplained weight loss
 
If your dog spends time outdoors, lives in Central Texas, or has been exposed to insects, they may be at risk even without symptoms.

If your dog may have been exposed to kissing bugs, do not wait. Chagas disease can silently damage the heart before symptoms appear. Early diagnosis can make the difference.

At Central Texas Vet, we go beyond standard testing.
Dr. Madigan is actively developing advanced serologic testing methods to improve detection accuracy.
 
Your dog’s evaluation may include:
 
 • Comprehensive physical exam
 • Cardiac screening
 • Specialized blood testing for T. cruzi
 • Advanced diagnostics when needed
 
Early detection allows for better management and improved outcomes.

Chagas disease is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, transmitted by “kissing bugs” commonly found in Texas.
Once infected, dogs may appear normal while the parasite attacks the heart and other organs.
 
Without intervention, Chagas can lead to:
 
 • Heart disease
 • Arrhythmias
 • Sudden death

Questions? We Have Answers

If your dog may be at risk, schedule an evaluation today and get answers from one of the leading experts in the field.

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At The Animal Hospital of Smithson Valley, we go beyond standard testing.Dr. Madigan is actively developing advanced serologic testing methods to improve detection accuracy.Your dog’s evaluation may include:<ul><li>Comprehensive physical exam</li><li>Cardiac screening</li><li>Specialized blood testing for T. cruzi</li><li>Advanced diagnostics when needed</li></ul>Early detection allows for better management and improved outcomes.

Dr. Roy Madigan, D.V.M., is not just a veterinarian. He is one of the leading experts in canine Chagas disease in the United States.<ul><li>Founder of Vida Pharmacal, focused on breakthrough parasitic disease treatments</li><li>Filed the first veterinary drug patent for anti-T. cruzi activity in dogs</li><li>Principal scientist for the U.S. military working dog Chagas treatment study</li><li>Veterinary lead for the Texas Chagas Task Force alongside the CDC and UT Health</li><li>Pioneer in developing diagnostic and treatment protocols for infected dogs</li></ul>Your pet is being treated by the same expert helping shape how Chagas disease is understood nationwide.

Chagas disease is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, transmitted by “kissing bugs” commonly found in Texas.Once infected, dogs may appear normal while the parasite attacks the heart and other organs.Without intervention, Chagas can lead to:<ul><li>Sudden death</li><li>Heart disease</li><li>Arrhythmias</li></ul>

Chagas disease progresses in stages. The earlier it is identified:<ul><li>The more treatment options are available</li><li>The better heart damage can be managed</li><li>The higher the chance of improving quality of life</li></ul>Waiting can mean irreversible cardiac damage.

Chagas disease is often silent early on, but warning signs may include:<ul><li>Lethargy or decreased activity</li><li>Fainting or collapse</li><li>Irregular heartbeat</li><li>Difficulty breathing</li><li>Unexplained weight loss</li></ul>If your dog spends time outdoors, lives in Central Texas, or has been exposed to insects, they may be at risk even without symptoms.

chagas-disease-ahsv

Chagas disease progresses in stages. The earlier it is identified:
 
 • The more treatment options are available
 • The better heart damage can be managed
 • The higher the chance of improving quality of&nbsp; life
 
Waiting can mean irreversible cardiac damage.<div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div>

Chagas disease is often silent early on, but warning signs may include:
 
 • Lethargy or decreased activity
 • Fainting or collapse
 • Irregular heartbeat
 • Difficulty breathing
 • Unexplained weight loss
 
If your dog spends time outdoors, lives in Central Texas, or has been exposed to insects, they may be at risk even without symptoms.<div> </div><div> </div>

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<h1 dir="auto">Lost Pet Prevention: How to Reduce the Risk Before It Happens</h1>Few experiences are more stressful for a pet owner than realizing their dog or cat is missing.Whether it happens because of an open gate, a broken leash, a visitor leaving a door ajar, or a pet becoming frightened by a loud noise, pets can disappear in a matter of seconds. While no one expects it to happen to them, lost pets are more common than many owners realize.The good news is that most lost pet situations can be prevented. A combination of preparation, awareness, and proper identification can dramatically reduce the risk and improve the chances of a safe return if your pet ever becomes separated from your family.<h2 dir="auto">Why Pets Go Missing</h2>Many pet owners assume that only adventurous pets run away, but the reality is more complicated.Even well-behaved pets can become lost under the right circumstances. Dogs may chase wildlife, become startled by thunderstorms or fireworks, or slip out when guests arrive. Indoor cats may dart through an open door or become curious about the outdoors.In many cases, a lost pet is not the result of negligence. It is simply the result of an unexpected moment.Understanding that any pet can become lost is the first step toward prevention.<h2 dir="auto">Start with Secure Routines at Home</h2>One of the most effective ways to prevent lost pets is to create consistent habits around entry points and outdoor access.Check fences regularly for gaps or weak spots. Make sure gates latch securely and remind family members to close them completely after entering or leaving the yard.For pets that spend time outdoors, supervision remains important even in fenced areas. A determined dog can dig, climb, or find an escape route that was not there the day before.Inside the home, it helps to be mindful when receiving deliveries, hosting guests, or moving furniture. These situations often create opportunities for pets to slip outside unnoticed.Small habits often make the biggest difference.<h2 dir="auto">The Importance of Identification</h2>Even with the best prevention efforts, accidents happen.That is why every pet should wear a collar with a current identification tag. If someone finds your pet, visible identification is often the fastest path to a reunion.Unfortunately, collars can break, slip off, or become damaged over time. For that reason, veterinarians recommend using multiple forms of identification whenever possible.Think of identification as a safety net. The more layers you have in place, the better protected your pet will be if something unexpected occurs.<h2 dir="auto">Why Microchipping Matters</h2>Microchipping is one of the most effective tools available for pet recovery.A microchip is a small device, about the size of a grain of rice, that is placed beneath your pet's skin. The procedure is quick, safe, and typically completed during a routine veterinary visit.Unlike collars or tags, a microchip cannot be lost or removed accidentally. When a lost pet is brought to a veterinary clinic or animal shelter, staff can scan the chip and access the owner's contact information.The key is keeping your registration information up to date. A microchip is only as effective as the contact details attached to it.Microchipping should not replace a collar and ID tag. Instead, it works as an additional layer of protection that can significantly improve the chances of a successful reunion.<h2 dir="auto">Training Can Help Prevent Escapes</h2>Training is another important piece of lost pet prevention.Teaching reliable recall commands can help if your dog ever slips free during a walk or escapes from the yard. Practicing basic commands like "come," "stay," and "wait" creates opportunities to regain control during unexpected situations.For cats, training looks different, but routines still matter. Consistent feeding schedules, environmental enrichment, and secure indoor spaces can reduce the likelihood of door-dashing behaviors.While training cannot eliminate every risk, it provides valuable tools when situations arise.<h2 dir="auto">Seasonal Risks to Watch For</h2>Certain times of year bring increased lost pet risks.Fireworks during holidays such as the Fourth of July and New Year's Eve frequently cause pets to panic and flee. Severe storms can have a similar effect. Moving to a new home, traveling, or hosting large gatherings may also increase the likelihood of a pet escaping.During these higher-risk periods, taking extra precautions can make a significant difference.Planning ahead is often easier than responding after a pet has gone missing.<h2 dir="auto">What to Do If Your Pet Becomes Lost</h2>If your pet disappears, act quickly.Begin by searching the immediate area and notifying neighbors. Contact local veterinary hospitals, animal shelters, and animal control agencies. Post clear photos and accurate descriptions on community social media groups and lost pet databases.If your pet is microchipped, contact the microchip company immediately to verify your information is current and to report your pet as missing.The sooner you begin the search process, the greater the likelihood of a successful recovery.

Learn practical lost pet prevention tips, including identification, training, and microchipping. Discover how to reduce the risk of your pet going missing.

Lost Pet Prevention Tips: How to Keep Your Dog or Cat Safe

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Served over 10,000 fur babies and their happy families.

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Pet acupuncture at () provides gentle, drug-free relief for pain, arthritis, and mobility issues. This holistic therapy boosts circulation, reduces inflammation, and supports healing for happier, healthier pets.

Veterinary Acupuncture

Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses light to stimulate healing and reduce pain in animals.

Laser Therapy

Saying goodbye is the hardest part of loving a pet. When that time comes, you deserve clarity, comfort, and the space to make decisions with peace of mind.

End-of-Life Support

When your pet needs medication, trust and convenience matter. At (), we prescribe and dispense medications directly from the team whos seen your pet, knows their health history, and understands their specific needs.
No guessing, no delays, and no unnecessary confusion.


Pet Prescriptions

Skin issues are one of the most common reasons pets end up at the vet, and they're also some of the most frustrating. Allergies, infections, or even food sensitivities can all cause your pet discomfort.

Dermatology & Allergy Care

When pets act out, there's almost always a reason. Anxiety, fear, medical conditions, or past trauma can show up as barking, biting, hiding, or destruction. Our job is to uncover the cause and help your pet feel safe again.

Pet Behavior & Anxiety Support

Nutrition is the foundation of good health, and a powerful tool in managing weight, energy, chronic conditions, and even behavior.

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A sudden limp. A skipped meal. A look that says something's off. When your pet isn't feeling right, same-day answers make all the difference. 

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Your pet can't tell you when something's wrong. That's why regular wellness exams are so important. These visits give us the chance to catch health issues early, before they become painful or costly.  

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Bad breath isn't just annoying - it's often a sign of deeper health issues. Dental disease in pets can lead to oral pain, local or systemic infection, tooth loss, and even heart, liver, or kidney complications. 

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Fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms are not just a nuisance, they are dangerous. These tiny pests can cause serious health issues like Lyme disease, heartworm disease, and tapeworms. 

Parasite Prevention

Vaccines are one of the most important tools we have to protect pets from serious, often deadly diseases. Whether you have a rambunctious or a relaxed pet, vaccinations help your pet build strong immunity and avoid preventable illness.

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Comprehensive surgical services, from routine procedures to complex operations, all are performed with expert care.

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When your pet isn't acting like themselves, diagnostic testing helps us find the reason. From bloodwork, urine testing, and fecal exams to x-rays, these tests give us a window into what's happening inside, so we can take action before things get worse.

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Spaying or neutering your pet is one of the most important decisions you can make for their long-term health. It helps prevent certain cancers and infections, curbs unwanted behaviors, and reduces the number of orphaned pets in shelters.

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When pets get sick or injured, you want answers fast. Advanced imaging gives us a deeper look, without invasive procedures.


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Discover hidden dental issues before they cause pain with pet dental radiology at (). Our veterinary dental X-rays reveal infections, bone loss, and tooth damage beneath the gum line, ensuring safer, more effective treatment. Non-invasive and included in every comprehensive dental cleaning, dental radiographs for pets help protect your pet's health, comfort, and smile for years to come.


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Permanent ID for Peace of Mind. A collar can come off. A tag can get lost. But a microchip is a permanent, tamper-proof way to make sure your pet always has a way home. At (), we offer safe and simple microchip implantation, so your pet stays connected to you, no matter what.

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Lost Pet Prevention Tips: How to Keep Your Dog or Cat Safe

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Lost Pet Prevention Tips: How to Keep Your Dog or Cat Safe

Recent Blogs

Senior Pet Month: Helping Your Dog or Cat Age Happy and Healthy

Pet Cancer Awareness Month: Signs to Watch For

New Pet Exam & Preventive Care Savings | Welcome Home

Related Blogs

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How often should I bring my pet to the vet for a check-up?

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