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Learn why pet vaccines are an important part of preventive care, how core and non-core vaccines work, and why staying current helps protect dogs and cats.

Pet Immunization Awareness Month: Why Vaccines Matter

Learn how cats change as they age, common senior cat health concerns, signs to watch for, and how regular veterinary care can support healthy aging.

Caring for Senior Cats: What Changes With Age?

Learn how to litter box train your kitten with simple tips on litter box setup, routine, and common mistakes to avoid for lifelong healthy habits.

Litter Box Training Your Kitten: Setting Your New Feline Friend Up for Success

House training takes patience, consistency, and routine. Learn practical tips to help your puppy develop good bathroom habits and set them up for success.

House Training Your Puppy: Tips for Building Good Habits From Day One

Learn the common signs of pet anxiety, what causes stress in dogs and cats, and how to help your pet feel more comfortable and confident.

Pet Anxiety in Dogs and Cats: Signs, Causes, and Ways to Help

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

<p dir="auto">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.</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">Founder of Vida Pharmacal, focused on breakthrough parasitic disease treatments</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Filed the first veterinary drug patent for anti-T. cruzi activity in dogs</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Principal scientist for the U.S. military working dog Chagas treatment study</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Veterinary lead for the Texas Chagas Task Force alongside the CDC and UT Health</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Pioneer in developing diagnostic and treatment protocols for infected dogs</p></li></ul><p dir="auto">Your pet is being treated by the same expert helping shape how Chagas disease is understood nationwide.</p>

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.
<br><br>
• Founder of Vida Pharmacal, focused on breakthrough parasitic disease treatments
<br>• Filed the first veterinary drug patent for anti-T. cruzi activity in dogs
<br>• Principal scientist for the U.S. military working dog Chagas treatment study
<br>• Veterinary lead for the Texas Chagas Task Force alongside the CDC and UT Health
<br>• Pioneer in developing diagnostic and treatment protocols for infected dogs
<br><br>
Your pet is being treated by the same expert helping shape how Chagas disease is understood nationwide.

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

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<b>Early Detection. Advanced Treatment. Led by One of the Nation’s Top Experts.</b>

<b>Do not wait for symptoms to appear.</b>

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

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.

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

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

chagas-disease

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

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

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<p dir="auto">Puppies and kittens grow rapidly, develop strong immune systems, and learn the behaviors that shape them as adults. Early veterinary care ensures that they get the foundation they need to stay healthy, protected, and well adjusted. This guide explains what new pet owners should expect, starting from the very first exam through the milestones of the first year.</p><h2 dir="auto">Your Pet’s First Veterinary Exam: What to Expect</h2><p dir="auto">The first exam usually occurs within the first week of bringing your new puppy or kitten home. This visit allows your veterinarian to assess overall health, identify any early concerns, and create a personalized care plan for the first year. A complete physical exam evaluates weight and growth, heart and lung function, eyes, ears, nose, throat, oral development, skin and coat, lymph nodes, abdomen, musculoskeletal structure, and behavior. During this visit, your veterinarian may also perform fecal testing for intestinal parasites, start your pet on parasite prevention, and discuss nutrition, training, and any questions you may have. Bringing any existing medical records helps your veterinarian continue appropriate care.</p><h2 dir="auto">Vaccine Schedule for Puppies and Kittens</h2><p dir="auto">Vaccines protect young pets from serious infectious diseases. Because puppies and kittens lose maternal immunity gradually, they require a series of boosters for full protection. Core puppy vaccines typically include distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, parainfluenza, and rabies. Core kitten vaccines typically include feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia, and rabies. Boosters are typically administered every three to four weeks until your pet is about 16 weeks old. Your veterinarian will tailor the schedule based on age, lifestyle, and health status.</p><h2 dir="auto">Parasite Prevention and Early Diagnostics</h2><p dir="auto">Puppies and kittens are especially vulnerable to parasites, and many carry intestinal parasites before adoption. Your veterinarian may recommend fecal testing, deworming, monthly flea and tick prevention, monthly heartworm prevention for dogs, and parasite control for cats depending on lifestyle. Consistent prevention keeps young pets healthy and reduces the risk of parasites spreading to people or other animals.</p><h2 dir="auto">Nutrition for Healthy Growth</h2><p dir="auto">Growing pets require balanced diets designed specifically for puppies or kittens. These diets provide the correct ratios of protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals to support development. Feed a diet labeled for growth or all life stages, avoid unnecessary food changes, discuss portion sizes with your veterinarian, and avoid overfeeding. Do not feed homemade or raw diets without veterinary guidance. Your veterinary team can help you select a diet that supports healthy growth.</p><h2 dir="auto">Microchipping and Identification</h2><p dir="auto">Microchipping provides permanent identification if your pet becomes lost. It is a quick procedure performed during a regular exam or at the time of spay or neuter surgery. Collars and tags are helpful, but microchips offer a reliable safety net.</p><h2 dir="auto">Socialization and Early Behavior Development</h2><p dir="auto">The first year is a critical period for social and behavioral development. Early experiences shape how pets respond to new people and environments. Your veterinarian may recommend controlled exposure to new situations, positive reinforcement training, crate training for puppies, litter box optimization for kittens, and early behavioral guidance to prevent fear based behaviors. Establishing good habits early supports long term confidence and well-being.</p><h2 dir="auto">Spay and Neuter Planning</h2><p dir="auto">Spaying or neutering protects your pet’s health and prevents unplanned litters. Timing varies by species, breed, and medical considerations. Your veterinarian will discuss the recommended timing during early visits. Some pets benefit from surgery around six months of age, while others may have individualized timing based on orthopedic or behavioral factors.</p><h2 dir="auto">Follow Up Visits During the First Year</h2><p dir="auto">Puppies and kittens typically have more veterinary visits in the first year than at any other life stage. These visits allow your veterinarian to complete vaccine boosters, monitor growth, adjust nutrition and preventives, address behavioral questions, perform spay or neuter surgery, and transition your pet to adult wellness care.</p><h2 dir="auto">Building a Healthy Future Starts Now</h2><p dir="auto">Early veterinary care sets the foundation for a lifetime of health. By understanding what to expect during the first year, new pet owners can help their puppies and kittens grow into strong, confident, and healthy adults. Schedule your new pet’s first exam with your nearest United Veterinary Care clinic to start them on the right path from the beginning.</p><p dir="auto"></p>

Bringing home a new puppy or kitten is an exciting experience, and the first year of life is the most important time for establishing long term health.

New Pet Care Guide: What Every Puppy and Kitten Needs in the First Year

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

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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.

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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.
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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.

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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.

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

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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. 

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

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

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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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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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New Pet Care Guide: What Every Puppy and Kitten Needs in the First Year

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FAQs

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New Pet Care Guide: What Every Puppy and Kitten Needs in the First Year

Recent Blogs

Pet Immunization Awareness Month: Why Vaccines Matter

Caring for Senior Cats: What Changes With Age?

Litter Box Training Your Kitten: Setting Your New Feline Friend Up for Success

Related Blogs

Pet Immunization Awareness Month: Why Vaccines Matter

Litter Box Training Your Kitten: Setting Your New Feline Friend Up for Success

House Training Your Puppy: Tips for Building Good Habits From Day One

FAQs

Do you offer pet dental care services?

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

What are the most common health issues for senior pets?

What is the best diet for my dog or cat?

What should I do if my pet shows signs of illness?