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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.

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.

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Shop your veterinarian's online pharmacy for pet medications, preventatives, and prescription food. Enjoy home delivery, AutoShip, and 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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Learn how to recognize signs your pet may be overweight and discover simple ways to support a healthy weight through nutrition, activity, and veterinary care.

Pet Obesity Awareness Month: Healthy Weight Tips

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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:<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.

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.

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>Heart disease</li><li>Arrhythmias</li><li>Sudden death</li></ul>

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

Do not wait for symptoms to appear.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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>

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Have an older pet at home?&nbsp;Just like humans, pets can develop several new health issues as they enter their senior years. Often attributed to simply “slowing down,” it is not uncommon for many of these age-related problems to go untreated or even unnoticed. However, many of these changes can be effectively managed with proper veterinary care.Common age-related medical issues in pets include:<h2 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.2">Arthritis</h2>Arthritis is a general term that describes a variety of diseases characterized by inflammation within the joints. These disorders often result in progressive joint pain and stiffness.Signs of arthritis include limping, muscle atrophy, stiffness, repeated licking over a joint, and reluctance to run, jump, or climb. Treatment aims to control the pain associated with arthritis as well as slow any further progression of the disease.This can be accomplished with diet, weight management, oral medication, joint supplements, and acupuncture.<h2 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.2">Cognitive Dysfunction</h2>Also known as “doggie dementia” or senility, cognitive dysfunction is an age-related deterioration of mental abilities, including learning, memory, and awareness.Signs of cognitive dysfunction in pets include disorientation, confusion, anxiety, decreased interaction with family members, loss of house training behaviors, and changes in sleep cycles.Unfortunately, cognitive dysfunction cannot be cured; instead, the goal of treatment is to address the pet’s clinical signs and slow the disease’s progression. Treatment options include an antioxidant-rich diet, oral medication, nutritional supplements, and regular moderate exercise.<h2 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.2">Heart Disease&nbsp;and Kidney Disease</h2>As pets age,&nbsp;their organs gradually begin to decline. The organs most commonly affected by this “wearing out” process are the heart and kidneys. Heart and kidney failure include a progressive loss of organ function over time.Heart disease progresses slowly in most pets. The clinical signs may be difficult to recognize or may appear to come on very quickly. Signs to look for include slowness to recover from exercise, an increase in respiratory rate (rapid breathing), coughing and lethargy, exercise intolerance, or weight loss.&nbsp; Heart disease can be treated to improve your pet’s quality of life. Most forms of heart disease can be detected during an annual exam and with the help of chest radiographs (x-rays), electrocardiogram (EKG), and cardiac ultrasound (echocardiogram).Signs of kidney disease include lethargy, decreased appetite, and increased thirst, as well as an increase or decrease in urination. Early kidney disease can be identified with blood work and urinalysis. This disease process can be slow, and symptoms may not be evident to the owner right away. It is possible to treat some forms of kidney disease and slow the progression of others.Treatment for both diseases may consist of oral medication, nutritional supplements, fluid therapy, diet changes, and acupuncture.<h2 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.2">Dental and Periodontal Disease</h2>Dental disease is very common in pets, it is just as common in dogs and cats as it is in humans!While it comes on slowly, dental disease tends to worsen as pets age due to a decline in immune function. Dental and periodontal disease puts a strain on your pet’s health and can be quite painful. We know that these factors affect quality of life; fortunately, this condition is completely treatable.Depending on the severity of the disease, treatment may include daily tooth brushing and oral care at home, dental cleaning under anesthesia, or oral surgery to remove broken or infected teeth.<h2 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.2">Hyperthyroidism</h2>One of the most common diseases affecting older cats, hyperthyroidism, is caused by the overproduction of thyroid hormones that increase the body’s rate of metabolism, resulting in weight loss and increased appetite. This disease also often leads to hypertension (high blood pressure).Clinical signs of hyperthyroidism include increased thirst and urination, a rough or unkempt hair coat, increased vocalization, and poor body condition.Traditional methods of treatment include oral medication, diet, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery.Remember, because dogs and cats age so rapidly (about seven times faster than humans), health problems tend to progress faster in pets as well. Early detection can help prevent disease and minimize the suffering of an older pet. Bi-annual exams and yearly wellness laboratory bloodwork and urinalysis are highly recommended for all pets eight years and older. Comprehensive integrative consultations can help address many quality-of-life issues as well.For more information about caring for your senior dog, click here. For your senior cat, click here.If you need to schedule an exam for your senior pet, contact us today!

Just like humans, pets can develop several new health issues as they enter their senior years. Often attributed to simply slowing down, it is not uncommon for many of these age-related problems to go untreated or even unnoticed. However, many of these changes can be effectively managed with proper veterinary care.

Senior Pets: Old Age is Not a Disease!

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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.

Pet Nutrition

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.
No guessing, no delays, and no unnecessary confusion.


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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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Ensure your pet travels safely with veterinary health certificates and travel documentation support. Our veterinarians provide exams, guidance, and required paperwork to help prepare your pet for travel based on your destination and specific requirements.

Pet Health Certificates

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

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Crossroads Animal Hospital offers expert care with shampooing, conditioning, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and anal gland expression in every full groom. We also provide medicated baths, de-shedding, nail grinding, and flea and tick prevention. For anxious or aggressive pets, we offer obedience or sedation grooming, with sedation only used when necessary and always monitored by a veterinarian or vet tech.

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We know that you cannot take your pet with you everywhere you go, which is why here at Crossroads Animal Hospital, we offer boarding accommodations to all of our clients, from classic kennels to luxury suites, we'll meet your pet's needs! When you board your pet at Crossroads Animal Hospital, you can leave town with peace of mind, knowing that our loving staff ensures that all of our guests receive the most tender care and attention throughout their stay with us.

Dog Boarding at Crossroads

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

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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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.


Dental Radiology

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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Senior Pets: Old Age is Not a Disease!

Recent Blogs

Related Blogs

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

Senior Cat Care: Promoting Wellness at Every Age

Aging Changes in Dogs and Cats

FAQs

Sheet title

Senior Pets: Old Age is Not a Disease!

Recent Blogs

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

Pet Cancer Awareness Month: Signs to Watch For

Online Veterinary Pharmacy: Home Delivery & Savings

Related Blogs

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

Senior Cat Care: Promoting Wellness at Every Age

Aging Changes in Dogs and Cats

FAQs

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

Do you offer pet dental care services?

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

What are the most common health issues for senior pets?

What is the best diet for my dog or cat?

How do I order my pet's prescription items online?