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

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

Pet Cancer Awareness Month: Signs to Watch For

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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>

chagas-disease-ctv

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<h2 dir="auto">Why Pet Cancer Awareness Matters</h2>Cancer is one of the most common health challenges in dogs and cats. One in four dogs and one in five cats will face cancer in their lifetime. Routine wellness exams and preventative lab work play a key role in early identification, since many changes begin internally long before symptoms appear.<h2 dir="auto">Warning Signs to Watch For</h2>Contact your UVC veterinarian at () if you notice:<ul><li>Lumps or bumps that change in size or shape</li><li>Decreased appetite or energy</li><li>Unexplained weight loss</li><li>Increased thirst or urination</li><li>Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or using the bathroom</li><li>Behavioral changes</li><li>Ongoing pain, stiffness, or limping</li></ul>Even subtle changes can be meaningful. If your pet seems “off,” trust your instincts.<h2 dir="auto">Proactive Care Makes a Difference</h2>While not all cancers can be prevented, healthy habits and regular veterinary screening improve early identification and long-term health:<ul><li>Annual or semiannual wellness exams</li><li>Preventive lab testing</li><li>Healthy weight management</li><li>Regular physical activity</li><li>Avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke and chemicals</li><li>Protecting light-colored pets from excessive sun exposure</li></ul><h2 dir="auto">Senior Pets Require Extra Monitoring</h2>Cancer risk increases with age. UVC Hospitals recommend:<ul><li>Twice-yearly exams and bloodwork</li><li>Monitoring for new lumps, appetite changes, or weight loss</li><li>Discussing additional screening or specialist care when appropriate</li></ul>Early identification expands treatment options and supports quality of life.<h2 dir="auto">Treatment Options and Support</h2>If your pet is diagnosed with cancer, your UVC veterinary team is here to guide you. Treatment options may include:<ul><li>Diagnostic imaging</li><li>Surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiation therapy (through referral partners)</li><li>Pain management and nutritional support</li><li>Ongoing monitoring and follow-up care</li></ul>Many cases can be successfully managed, especially when identified early. Treatment options for pets continue to expand, and even cancers that cannot be cured can often be managed long-term as chronic conditions when the right therapy is initiated.<h2 dir="auto">Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Cancer</h2>1. What are the most common signs of cancer in pets?Lumps, weight loss, appetite changes, difficulty breathing, or persistent pain. Any lasting or unusual change should be evaluated.2. How is cancer diagnosed in dogs and cats?Diagnosis often includes a physical exam, bloodwork, imaging such as X-rays or ultrasound, and sampling a lump through a needle aspirate or biopsy.3. Can pet cancer be treated or cured?Some cancers can be cured with surgery. Others can be managed long term with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or supportive care.4. Which pets are at higher risk?Senior pets, certain breeds, overweight pets, and those exposed to UV light or secondhand smoke. Older pets benefit most from twice-yearly screenings.5. When should I contact my veterinarian?Any new lump, behavior change, appetite loss, or weight change should be checked promptly. Early evaluation leads to better outcomes.6. Are cancer treatments painful for pets?Most pets tolerate cancer treatments well. Veterinary oncology focuses on maintaining comfort and quality of life, and side effects are generally much milder than in humans.7. Is chemotherapy safe for pets?Yes. Chemotherapy protocols in pets prioritize comfort. Most pets experience little to no GI side effects. Because most pets have fur rather than hair, many do not lose their fur at all.8. How fast does cancer spread in pets?It depends on the type. Some cancers grow slowly, while others spread quickly. Early identification gives your veterinarian more time to address the disease.9. How can I help prevent cancer in my pet?Maintain a healthy weight, feed a balanced diet, limit chemical and smoke exposure, protect from sun damage, and schedule regular wellness exams and lab work.10. What should I expect if my pet is diagnosed with cancer?Your veterinarian will explain diagnostic findings, outline treatment options, discuss prognosis, and may recommend referral to a veterinary oncologist or specialist for advanced care.

Every November, we recognize National Pet Cancer Awareness Month to help pet parents understand cancer risks, early warning signs, and the importance of proactive veterinary care. Awareness empowers families to act early and support their pets' long-term health.

Pet Cancer Awareness Month: Early Diagnosis, Prevention, and Hope

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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. 

Urgent Care

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

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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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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 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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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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Enhance your pet's recovery and mobility with custom rehabilitation at (). Our expert team uses therapeutic exercise, laser therapy, and underwater treadmill sessions to reduce pain, rebuild strength, and restore comfort. Schedule your pet's rehab consultation today.

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

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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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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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Pet Cancer Awareness Month: Early Diagnosis, Prevention, and Hope

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FAQs Of Demanes Animal Hospital

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Pet Cancer Awareness Month: Early Diagnosis, Prevention, and Hope

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

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Pet Cancer Awareness Month: Signs to Watch For

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FAQs Of Demanes Animal Hospital

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