Present this coupon to claim your pet's free first exam and get started with care designed around your pet.

Prepare your pet for the unexpected this National Preparedness Month with tips for emergency kits, evacuation plans, identification, medications, and more.

National Preparedness Month: How to Prepare Your Pet for an Emergency

Learn the differences between wet and dry cat food, their benefits, and how to choose the right diet for your cat's age, health, and needs.

Wet Food vs. Dry Food: Which Is Best for Your Cat?

Learn how to recognize signs of pain in dogs and cats, understand changes in behavior and mobility, and know when to contact your veterinarian.

Animal Pain Awareness Month: Recognizing the Signs of Pain in Your Pet

Follow this ultimate cat owner checklist for essential tips on veterinary care, nutrition, dental health, enrichment, grooming, and preventive care.

The Ultimate Cat Owner Checklist: Everything Your Cat Needs to Thrive

Learn how to make your home more cat-friendly with simple tips for climbing, scratching, play, enrichment, relaxation, and overall well-being.

How to Make Your Home More Cat-Friendly

Springhurst Animal Hospital

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

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.

Get In Touch

Chagas disease progresses in stages. The earlier it is identified:
<br><br>
<br>• The more treatment options are available
<br>• The better heart damage can be managed
<br>• The higher the chance of improving quality of life
<br><br>
Waiting can mean irreversible cardiac damage.

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

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

Chagas disease is often silent early on, but warning signs may include:
<br>
<br>• Lethargy or decreased activity
<br>• Fainting or collapse
<br>• Irregular heartbeat
<br>• Difficulty breathing
<br>• Unexplained weight loss
<br><br>
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.
<br><br>
Your dog’s evaluation may include:
<br>
<br>• Comprehensive physical exam
<br>• Cardiac screening
<br>• Specialized blood testing for T. cruzi
<br>• Advanced diagnostics when needed
<br><br>
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.
<br><br>
Without intervention, Chagas can lead to:
<br>
<br>• Heart disease
<br>• Arrhythmias
<br>• 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.

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">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>

<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>

<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>

<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>

chagas-disease-ahsv

Chagas disease progresses in stages. The earlier it is identified:
<br><br>
<br>• The more treatment options are available
<br>• The better heart damage can be managed
<br>• The higher the chance of improving quality of&nbsp; life
<br><br>
Waiting can mean irreversible cardiac damage.<div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>

Chagas disease is often silent early on, but warning signs may include:
<br>
<br>• Lethargy or decreased activity
<br>• Fainting or collapse
<br>• Irregular heartbeat
<br>• Difficulty breathing
<br>• Unexplained weight loss
<br><br>
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><br></div><div><br></div>

chagas-disease-ctv

contact-us

copy-of-chagas-disease

Is Springhurst Animal Hospital accepting new patients?

#1f2937

What should I expect during my pet’s first visit?

Yes, the veterinary team offers wellness care, diagnostics, and ongoing treatment plans tailored to the needs of aging pets.

Does Springhurst Animal Hospital care for senior pets?

Pet owners choose Springhurst Animal Hospital for its compassionate veterinary team, personalized care approach, and commitment to helping pets live healthy, happy lives.

Can Springhurst Animal Hospital perform surgeries?

Yes, pet owners can request appointments online through the Springhurst Animal Hospital website.


Why do pet owners choose Springhurst Animal Hospital?

Does Springhurst Animal Hospital offer pet dental care?

Yes, Springhurst Animal Hospital welcomes new patients and is committed to providing personalized veterinary care for local pet families.


During your first appointment, the veterinary team will review your pet’s medical history, perform a physical exam, discuss any health concerns, and recommend a personalized care plan.

Yes, the hospital provides core and lifestyle-based vaccinations to help protect pets from preventable illnesses and diseases.

What types of pets does Springhurst Animal Hospital treat?

Can I schedule a veterinary appointment online?

Accordion Title

Yes, preventive care services include wellness exams, vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, heartworm prevention, and routine parasite screenings.

Yes, the hospital provides professional dental cleanings, oral health evaluations, and preventative dental care to help pets maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Does Springhurst Animal Hospital offer urgent veterinary care?

The hospital can assist with urgent veterinary concerns during regular business hours and recommends calling ahead for urgent situations.

Yes, the hospital provides wellness care for puppies and kittens, including vaccinations, parasite prevention, nutrition guidance, and developmental health monitoring.

Does Springhurst Animal Hospital offer vaccinations for pets?

Do you offer care for puppies and kittens?

What veterinary services are offered at Springhurst Animal Hospital?

Services include wellness exams, vaccinations, diagnostic testing, pet dental care, surgery, senior pet care, nutritional counseling, and preventative medicine.

Springhurst Animal Hospital provides veterinary care for dogs and cats, offering preventative, medical, and surgical services for pets of all ages.

Does Springhurst Animal Hospital provide preventive care for pets?

Yes, the veterinary team performs routine surgical procedures, including spay and neuter surgeries and other general soft tissue procedures.


forms-page

form-section

get-in-touch

landing-page

contact-us-section

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-2

payment-section-5

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

<p dir="auto">Every year, millions of dogs and cats become lost, and many are never reunited with their owners. While collars and ID tags are helpful, they can become damaged, removed, or lost over time. Pet microchipping provides a permanent form of identification that significantly increases the chances of a lost pet being returned home.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">During Microchipping Month, it is important to understand how microchips work, why they are recommended by veterinarians, and how they support long term safety for pets.</p><h2 dir="auto">What Is Pet Microchipping and How Does It Work</h2><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">A microchip for dogs and cats is a small device, about the size of a grain of rice, that is placed just beneath the skin, typically between the shoulder blades. The procedure is quick and similar to a routine vaccination.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">Each microchip contains a unique identification number. When a lost pet is found and scanned at a veterinary clinic or animal shelter, this number links to a registry that contains the owner’s contact information.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">Microchips do not have batteries and do not actively transmit signals. Instead, they are activated by a scanner, making them a reliable and long lasting form of identification.</p><h2 dir="auto">Why Microchipping Is More Reliable Than Collars and Tags</h2><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">Collars and tags are important, but they are not always dependable. Pets may slip out of collars, tags can wear down over time, and information may become outdated.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">In contrast, pet ID microchip systems provide permanent identification that cannot be removed or lost. This makes microchipping one of the most effective ways to ensure that a pet can be identified if separated from its owner.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">Veterinary and shelter organizations consistently report higher return to owner rates for microchipped pets compared to those without microchips.</p><h2 dir="auto">How Microchipping Improves Recovery Rates</h2><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">One of the most significant benefits of microchipping pets is the increased likelihood of reunion after a pet becomes lost. When a microchipped pet is brought to a veterinary clinic or shelter, staff can quickly scan the pet and access the registered owner information.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">This process reduces the time a pet spends in a shelter environment and increases the chances of a safe return home. Pets without identification are often more difficult to reunite with their families, especially if they are found far from home.</p><h2 dir="auto">Is Microchipping Safe for Dogs and Cats</h2><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">Microchipping is considered a safe and routine procedure. The microchip is made from biocompatible materials designed to remain in place under the skin without causing discomfort.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">Most pets tolerate the procedure well, with minimal reaction. Once placed, the microchip requires no maintenance and lasts for the lifetime of the pet.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">Veterinarians perform microchipping regularly and can answer any questions regarding the procedure or placement.</p><h2 dir="auto">The Importance of Keeping Microchip Information Updated</h2><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">A microchip is only effective if the associated contact information is current. After microchipping, owners must register the chip and ensure that phone numbers, addresses, and email information remain up to date.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">If contact information changes, updating the registry is essential. Outdated information can prevent successful reunification, even when a pet is properly microchipped.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">Checking registration details periodically helps ensure that the microchip continues to serve its purpose.</p><h2 dir="auto">When Should Pets Be Microchipped</h2><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">Pets can be microchipped at almost any age, but many veterinarians recommend placing a microchip during early life stages, often during initial veterinary visits or at the time of spay or neuter procedures.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">However, it is never too late to microchip a pet. Adult dogs and cats that have not yet been microchipped can still benefit from this form of identification.</p><h2 dir="auto">Microchipping and Indoor Pets</h2><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">Some pet owners believe that indoor pets do not need microchipping. However, indoor pets can still escape through open doors, windows, or unexpected situations.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">Because indoor pets are often unfamiliar with outdoor environments, they may travel farther or become disoriented more quickly if they escape. Pet microchipping provides an added layer of protection in these situations.</p><h2 dir="auto">Combining Microchips with Other Identification Methods</h2><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">While microchipping is highly effective, it works best when combined with visible identification such as collars and tags. Tags allow for immediate identification without the need for scanning, while microchips provide permanent backup identification.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">Using both methods increases the likelihood of a quick and successful return if a pet becomes lost.</p><h2 dir="auto">What to Do If Your Pet Goes Missing</h2><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">If a pet becomes lost, owners should:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">Contact local veterinary clinics and shelters</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Confirm that the microchip registration is accurate</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Report the pet as missing with the microchip registry</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Use community resources and local alerts</p></li></ul><p dir="auto">Because microchips provide a direct link to the owner, they are one of the most effective tools in lost pet recovery efforts.</p><h2 dir="auto">Permanent Identification That Protects Pets for Life</h2><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">Pet microchipping is a simple, safe, and highly effective way to protect dogs and cats. By providing permanent identification, microchips significantly improve the chances of reuniting lost pets with their families.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">During Microchipping Month, pet owners are encouraged to confirm that their pets are microchipped and that their registration information is current. This small step can make a significant difference in ensuring a pet’s safety and long term security.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">To learn more about microchipping or to schedule an appointment, contact your nearest United Veterinary Care clinic.</p><p dir="auto"></p>

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

gtm_67f2a81053dc857452f08e77

Join our veterinary team at Springhurst Animal Hospital

springhurstanimalhospital

Please fill out the information below to get started.

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

<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.</p>

Free Exam for New Clients! See Below for Details.

Below are some answers to our most common questions.

Additional Services

General Services

Speciality Services

Compassionate and quality care for dogs, cats, and ferrets.

We have served over 10,000 pets and their happy families.

USA TODAY has named Springhurst Animal Hospital among the top veterinary clinics in the nation.

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

At Springhurst Animal Hospital, we provide compassionate veterinary acupuncture services for dogs, cats, and ferrets in Louisville, KY, including Prospect, Lyndon, Anchorage, St. Matthews, Middletown, and surrounding East Louisville communities.

Veterinary Acupuncture

At Springhurst Animal Hospital, we provide compassionate laser therapy services for dogs, cats, and ferrets in Louisville, KY, including Prospect, Lyndon, Anchorage, St. Matthews, Middletown, and surrounding East Louisville communities.

Laser Therapy

At Springhurst Animal Hospital, we provide compassionate end-of-life support services for dogs and cats in Louisville, KY, including Prospect, Lyndon, Anchorage, St. Matthews, Middletown, and surrounding East Louisville communities.

End-of-Life Support

At Springhurst Animal Hospital, we provide compassionate pet prescription services for dogs, cats, and ferrets in Louisville, KY, including Prospect, Lyndon, Anchorage, St. Matthews, Middletown, and surrounding East Louisville communities.

Pet Prescriptions

At Springhurst Animal Hospital, we provide compassionate dermatology & allergy care services for dogs, cats, and ferrets in Louisville, KY, including Prospect, Lyndon, Anchorage, St. Matthews, Middletown, and surrounding East Louisville communities.

Dermatology & Allergy Care

At Springhurst Animal Hospital, we provide compassionate pet behavior & anxiety support services for dogs, cats, and ferrets in Louisville, KY, including Prospect, Lyndon, Anchorage, St. Matthews, Middletown, and surrounding East Louisville communities.

Pet Behavior & Anxiety Support

At Springhurst Animal Hospital, we provide compassionate pet nutrition services for dogs, cats, and ferrets in Louisville, KY, including Prospect, Lyndon, Anchorage, St. Matthews, Middletown, and surrounding East Louisville communities.

Pet Nutrition

At Springhurst Animal Hospital, we provide compassionate wellness exams services for dogs, cats, and ferrets in Louisville, KY, including nearby communities such as Prospect, Lyndon, Anchorage, St. Matthews, and Middletown.

Wellness Exams

At Springhurst Animal Hospital, we provide compassionate dental care services for dogs, cats, and ferrets pigs in Louisville, KY, including Prospect, Lyndon, Anchorage, St. Matthews, Middletown, and surrounding East Louisville communities.

Dental Care

At Springhurst Animal Hospital, we provide compassionate parasite prevention services for dogs, cats, and ferrets in Louisville, KY, including Prospect, Lyndon, Anchorage, St. Matthews, Middletown, and surrounding East Louisville communities.

Parasite Prevention

At Springhurst Animal Hospital, we provide compassionate vaccination services for dogs, cats, and ferrets in Louisville, KY, including Prospect, Lyndon, Anchorage, St. Matthews, Middletown, and surrounding East Louisville communities.

Vaccinations

At Springhurst Animal Hospital, we provide compassionate pet surgery services for dogs, cats, and ferrets in Louisville, KY, including Prospect, Lyndon, Anchorage, St. Matthews, Middletown, and surrounding East Louisville communities.

Pet Surgeries

At Springhurst Animal Hospital, we provide compassionate diagnostic testing services for dogs and cats in Louisville, KY, including Prospect, Lyndon, Anchorage, St. Matthews, Middletown, and surrounding East Louisville communities.

Diagnostic Testing

At Springhurst Animal Hospital, we provide compassionate advanced diagnostic imaging services for dogs, cats, and ferrets in Louisville, KY, including Prospect, Lyndon, Anchorage, St. Matthews, Middletown, and surrounding East Louisville communities.

Advanced Diagnostic Imaging

At Springhurst Animal Hospital, we provide compassionate spay and neuter services for dogs, cats, and ferrets in Louisville, KY, including Prospect, Lyndon, Anchorage, St. Matthews, Middletown, and surrounding East Louisville communities.

Spay And Neuter

At Springhurst Animal Hospital, we provide compassionate pet microchipping services for dogs, cats, and ferrets in Louisville, KY, including Prospect, Lyndon, Anchorage, St. Matthews, Middletown, and surrounding East Louisville communities.

Sheet title

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

Recent Blogs

Related Blogs

National Preparedness Month: How to Prepare Your Pet for an Emergency

Animal Pain Awareness Month: Recognizing the Signs of Pain in Your Pet

How Often Should Cats See a Veterinarian? A Guide to Wellness Exams and Vaccines

FAQs

Sheet title

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

Recent Blogs

National Preparedness Month: How to Prepare Your Pet for an Emergency

Wet Food vs. Dry Food: Which Is Best for Your Cat?

Animal Pain Awareness Month: Recognizing the Signs of Pain in Your Pet

Related Blogs

National Preparedness Month: How to Prepare Your Pet for an Emergency

Animal Pain Awareness Month: Recognizing the Signs of Pain in Your Pet

How Often Should Cats See a Veterinarian? A Guide to Wellness Exams and Vaccines

FAQs

What is the best diet for my dog or cat?

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

Do you offer pet dental care services?

What are the most common health issues for senior pets?

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