Mention this offer to claim $25 off your pet's first exam and get started with care designed around your pet.

Learn why pet microchipping is essential for dogs and cats. Discover how microchips work, why they improve recovery rates, and how they support permanent identification.

Pet Microchipping: Why It Matters and How It Helps Reunite Lost Pets

Learn how routine veterinary care strengthens the human animal bond by supporting pet health, behavior, and long term well being for dogs and cats.

Routine Veterinary Care and the Human Animal Bond

Protect your pet this Memorial Day with firework safety tips from veterinarians. Learn how to reduce anxiety, prevent escapes, and keep pets safe during celebrations.

Firework Safety for Pets on Memorial Day: How to Keep Dogs and Cats Calm

Learn the early signs of cancer in pets and why early detection matters. Discover common symptoms, diagnostic testing, and treatment options for dogs and cats.

Pet Cancer Awareness: Recognizing the Signs and Why Early Detection Matters

Build a complete first aid kit with veterinarian-recommended essentials. Download UVC's free checklist and stay prepared at home or on the go.

Pet First Aid Kit Essentials: How to Prepare for Pet Emergencies

Fri Apr 11 2025 01:16:45 GMT+0530 (India Standard Time)

Shadow Creek Veterinary Clinic

about-us-page

our-history-section

our-teams-section

We are dedicated to providing the highest level of care along with friendly, compassionate service.

why-us-section

app-download-page

blogs-page

blogs-section

book-appointment-page

book-appointment-section

Embedded content

care-memberships

care-plan

career-page

careers-section

<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>

Get In Touch

<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>

chagas-disease-ahsv

contact-us

copy-of-chagas-disease

forms-page

form-section

get-in-touch

landing-page

contact-us-section

cta-bar

emergency-branches

faq-section

footer-section

hero-section

otto-widget-section

our-services-section

testimonials-section

vetstoria-widget-section

Financial Aid:

Obedience:

Local Dog Parks:

Boarding Kennels In Our Area:

Microchipping:

Doggie Daycare in our Area:

Adoptions:

General Information:

links-and-resources

news-page

our-history-page

Our <b>East Side Entrance</b> is located on Early Street, across from the Hanover Apartment Building. Our <b>North Side Entrance</b> is located on Irby Avenue, across from Woody’s Cheesesteak.

parking

payment-info-page

payment-information-section

payment-section-3

promotions

services-page

service-page-section

team-page

teams-page-section

video-page

pixel_google

pixel_facebook

Header Cookie Consent - 671f33c5d8e9f7c6b5f082c9

cookie_settings_1750955345987

<button id="ot-sdk-btn" class="ot-sdk-show-settings">Cookie Settings</button>
 

cookie_list_1750955346272

cookie_microsoft

<h2 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em"><strong>Why is fecal parasite testing important?</strong></h2><p dir="auto" style="text-align: left"><strong>Yes, we live in the north and have very cold and snowy winters. Intuitively, one would think that this would help kill many parasites. Believe it or not, we do see lots of pets with intestinal parasites in Massachusetts. Even pets that spend all or much of their time indoors or in a fenced yard are not immune. Pretty much every day, we see fecal test reports come back from the lab with positive results. We commonly see roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, tapeworms, Giardia, and coccidia in our patients. These parasites are all extremely treatable, but many are contagious to people (especially kids) and can make pets pretty sick until they are discovered and treated.</strong></p><h2 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em"><strong>How on earth could these parasites be getting into our pets?</strong></h2><p dir="auto" style="text-align: left"><strong>Well, we do have plenty of wildlife around, even in urban areas. Infected wildlife or pets that poop outside can contaminate soil, ponds or puddles with worm eggs, larvae or protozoa cysts. Pets that simply walk around outside can pick up infectious forms of the organisms on their feet. As soon as they lick their feet, they can become infected. Drinking water from contaminated sources is another way that pets commonly get infected. Ingestion of infected wildlife (like rodents) is another source. But what about my indoor cat? If your cat is a great hunter, you may not have even known that a mouse got into your house. Cockroaches and flies are other known sources since they may eat animal feces and come into the house. Cats love chasing bugs. Fleas are small enough to fit through screens and spread tapeworms to your cat when eaten during normal grooming. Even house plants can be a source of infection. It has been found that 5-10 % of all potting soil contains roundworm eggs.</strong></p><h2 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em"><strong>Won’t I know if my pet has parasites?</strong></h2><p dir="auto" style="text-align: left"><strong>Depending on the type of parasite and number of worms, your cat or dog may be pretty sick with diarrhea or vomiting, prompting suspicion and fecal parasite testing. Some pets may have pooped or vomited evidence of the worms. Other parasites show minimal symptoms. Perhaps an occasional soft stool is chalked up to eating something from the table. Maybe there has been an unexplained mild weight loss. Every pet should have a poop sample brought to the vet for testing every year. Some pets may need more frequent testing if they hunt or have more wildlife or dog park exposure. Monthly parasite preventatives are a must. Heartworm preventatives for both dogs and cats provide some protection against some intestinal worms, but no product exists that protects against everything. Annual poop testing is one of the most important parts of veterinary care for your pet and a safety measure for your family.</strong></p>

Yes, we live in the north and have very cold and snowy winters. Intuitively, one would think that this would help kill many parasites. Believe it or not, we do actually see lots of pets with intestinal parasites in Massachusetts. Even pets that spend all or much of their time indoors or in a fenced yard are not immune. Pretty much every day, we see fecal test reports come back from the lab with positive results.

The Importance of Parasite Testing

gtm_67f8202303a946b407b41af8

At Shadow Creek Veterinary Clinic, we are just as passionate about our team as we are about pets.

shadowcreekvetclinic

In order to provide the best possible service, we have created several forms that you may find helpful before your appointment with us.

Compassionate and quality care for your pet.

Same-day appointments and walk-ins available.

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

<p>To help us provide the best care possible, payment is required at the time of service. We accept cash and all major credit cards, and we are happy to offer a deferred interest payment plan through CareCredit.</p>

CareCredit

Trupanion Pet Insurance

ScratchPay

Mr. Dog Training

Tree Frog Farm Personalized – Dog Training and Agility

Brunswick Maine Dog Park

Great Island Kennel

Pet Sitters of Maine

The Brown Dog Inn

Camp Bow Wow

Falmouth Happy Cats

Home Again

The Blue Dog Daycare

Happy Paws Unleashed

Midcoast Humane

Passion for Pets Rescue Organization

Coastal Maine Great Dane Rescue

VeterinaryPartner.com

The Indoor Pet Initiative

Feline Fix by Five

Traveling Out of the Country with Your Pet

AAHA Pet Health Library

Pet Poison Control

Consult Online

Online Store

Pet Portal

Forms

Download App

Additional Services

General Services

Speciality Services

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.

Pet Nutrition

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.  

Wellness Exams

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. 

Dental Care

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

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

Pet Surgeries

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.

Vaccinations

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.

Diagnostic Testing

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

Advanced Diagnostic Imaging

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.

Pet Microchipping

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.

Sheet title

The Importance of Parasite Testing

Recent Blogs

FAQs

Sheet title

The Importance of Parasite Testing

Recent Blogs

Pet Microchipping: Why It Matters and How It Helps Reunite Lost Pets

Routine Veterinary Care and the Human Animal Bond

Firework Safety for Pets on Memorial Day: How to Keep Dogs and Cats Calm

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?