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Peoria Area Veterinary Group

Peoria Area Veterinary Group of Dunlap

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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

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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.

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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We’ve all seen the memes since this COVID-19 pandemic started about dogs who have had enough of you walking them, thank you very much. And in turn, the cat memes are all about them wondering when we are going back to work and giving them their much-needed personal space back. We get it. Dogs tend to be goofy and friendly, while cats are, ahem, a bit more discerning about their company. The truth is, though, cats have plenty of different personality types, and many of them do experience separation anxiety. This is particularly true of cats who were orphaned. And with many of you going back to work, if you haven’t gone back already, it’s a good idea to know the signs of separation anxiety in cats.<h2 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.2">What Are the Signs My Cat May Be Experiencing Separation Anxiety?</h2><h3 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.2">While every cat has a different personality, the general signs of separation anxiety in felines are:</h3><ol><li>Excessive meowing, crying, or moaning</li><li>Eating too fast or not eating at all</li><li>Excessive self-grooming</li><li>Elimination outside the litter box</li><li>Destructive behavior</li><li>Excitement upon returning from home is out of the ordinary</li><li>Vomiting food or hairballs</li><li>Trying to escape</li></ol>As veterinarians and pet owners, we know that some of these things can be frustrating, particularly the elimination outside the litter box. Many cat owners have gotten the “gift’ of defecation on the bed, in a shoe, or on an item of clothing. It’s important to remember that this isn’t necessarily a sign of spiteful behavior, but can often mean that your cat is looking to mix their scent with yours. Cats believe they are also helping you find your way home. Instincts run deep!<h2 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.2">What Can I Do if My Cat Shows Signs of Separation Anxiety?</h2>Thankfully, there are things you can buy and actions you can take to minimize the anxiety your cat may begin to feel when you return to work or other activities outside the house.<h3 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.2">Some of the ways to minimize separation anxiety in cats are as follows:</h3><ul><li>Leave the radio or TV on a station that is often on when you’re there</li><li>Keep arrivals and departures low-key (hint: Don’t announce, “Mommy is leaving!”)</li><li>Create a nook, haven, or refuge for your cat that is their safe space</li><li>Provide plenty of toys and/or puzzles for playtime while you are gone</li><li>Channel prey instincts by hiding food in toys that make them work for it</li><li>Start with shorter absences first</li><li>Provide a perch or “catio” so that your cat can see their favorite views</li><li>Consider a room diffuser or pheromones to provide a calming scent for your cat (check the safety of this with your vet first)</li><li>Remove departure cues (ie, put your keys in your pocket a few minutes before leaving)</li><li>Provide plenty of cuddles and playtime once home</li><li>For more serious cases, consider having a sitter come for 1-2 play sessions during absences</li></ul>We cannot emphasize enough the importance of checking with your veterinarian when you see any change in your cat’s behavior before you chalk it up to separation anxiety, as early treatment of illnesses is crucial to cat wellness. For example, some cats go outside the litter box when they have urinary tract infections.In extreme cases, medication may be an option, but your vet will usually leave that as a final alternative. As the ASPCA notes, "Sometimes for cats, veterinarians will advise using pheromones or calming treats before prescribing medication. Always consult with your veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist before giving your dog or cat any type of medication or supplement for a behavior problem."If you have any other questions about this or how to deal with anxiety in your cat, please don’t hesitate to give us a call.

This is particularly true of cats who were orphaned. And with many of you going back to work, if you haven't gone back already, it's a good idea to know the signs of separation anxiety in cats.

8 Signs of Separation Anxiety in Cats And What to Do About Them

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Peoria Area Veterinary Group and its veterinary staff are dedicated to providing our clients with excellent patient care. We are your local veterinarians in Chillicothe, Dunlap and Peoria.

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Unlike traditional kennels, our team includes trained veterinary professionals who monitor your pet throughout their stay. You can relax knowing they're in capable hands. Your veterinarian will assess whether your pet needs any additional care prior to and during their stay.

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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.

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


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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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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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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.


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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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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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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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8 Signs of Separation Anxiety in Cats And What to Do About Them

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8 Signs of Separation Anxiety in Cats And What to Do About Them

Recent Blogs

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