Mention this offer to claim your pet's free 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

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

Discover pet-friendly parks, apartments, restaurants, and local events for dog and cat owners in Springhurst and Louisville, KY.

Pet-Friendly Living in Springhurst and Northeast Louisville

Explore pet-friendly restaurants, coffee shops, breweries, and dog-friendly patios near Springhurst and Louisville, KY.

Best Pet-Friendly Restaurants and Coffee Shops in Louisville Near Springhurst

Discover the best dog parks, walking trails, and pet-friendly outdoor spaces near Springhurst and Northeast Louisville, KY.

Best Places to Walk Your Dog in Louisville Near Springhurst

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

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">As loving pet owners, it’s essential to be vigilant about our dogs’ health, especially during the warmer months. Heatstroke in dogs is a serious condition that can lead to severe health problems or even be fatal if not addressed promptly. It occurs when a dog’s body temperature rises to a dangerous level. This blog will explore the signs of heatstroke in dogs and offer guidance on prevention, helping you keep your beloved pet safe and healthy. If you’re concerned your dog might be experiencing heatstroke, please call () immediately to make an appointment.&nbsp;</p><h2 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.1"><strong>Recognizing the Signs of Heatstroke</strong></h2><p dir="auto" style="text-align: left">Identifying heatstroke early is key to preventing severe health issues. Here are the signs you should look out for:</p><h3 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.1"><strong>Excessive Panting and Drooling</strong></h3><p dir="auto" style="text-align: left">Dogs naturally pant to cool themselves, but excessive panting and drooling can be a sign of heatstroke. If you notice your dog panting more heavily than usual and drooling more than normal, it’s time to take action.</p><h3 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.1"><strong>Lethargy and Weakness</strong></h3><p dir="auto" style="text-align: left">If your dog seems unusually tired, weak, or uninterested in activities they usually enjoy, it could be a warning sign. Lethargy and weakness are common symptoms of heatstroke in dogs.</p><h3 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.1"><strong>Vomiting or Diarrhea</strong></h3><p dir="auto" style="text-align: left">In some cases, dogs suffering from heatstroke may experience vomiting or diarrhea. These symptoms can further dehydrate your dog, compounding the problem.</p><h2 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.1"><strong>The Dangers of Heatstroke</strong></h2><p dir="auto" style="text-align: left">Heatstroke can have serious, long-lasting effects on your dog’s health. Here’s what you need to know about the potential dangers:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto"><strong>Organ Damage:</strong> Extended exposure to high temperatures can lead to organ damage. The kidneys, liver, and brain are particularly at risk during a heatstroke event.</p></li><li><p dir="auto"><strong>Dehydration:</strong> Heatstroke can cause severe dehydration, which can further exacerbate the condition and lead to additional health issues.</p></li></ul><h3 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.1"><strong>Preventing Heatstroke in Dogs</strong></h3><p dir="auto" style="text-align: left">Fortunately, heatstroke is preventable. Here are some steps you can take to protect your dog:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto"><strong>Provide Plenty of Fresh Water:</strong> Ensure your dog has access to fresh, cool water at all times. This is crucial for keeping them hydrated and helping regulate their body temperature.</p></li><li><p dir="auto"><strong>Shade and Shelter:</strong> When outdoors, make sure your dog can access shaded or cool areas to rest. Never leave your dog in a parked car, even with the windows cracked open.</p></li><li><p dir="auto"><strong>Monitor Exercise:</strong> On hot days, limit your dog’s exercise, especially during peak temperature hours. Opt for walks in the early morning or late evening when it’s cooler.</p></li><li><p dir="auto"><strong>Use Cooling Aids:</strong> Consider using cooling mats, vests, or bandanas to help keep your dog’s temperature down during the heat.</p></li></ul><h2 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.1"><strong>When to Seek Veterinary Care</strong></h2><p dir="auto" style="text-align: left">If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, it’s crucial to act quickly. Call () to make an appointment right away. Our team can provide the necessary care to help your dog recover. Move your dog to a cooler area and provide them with water. However, remember not to offer medical treatment or in-home remedies without consulting a veterinarian first. Our veterinarians can assess your dog’s condition, provide emergency treatment, and recommend further steps to ensure a full recovery.</p><h3 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.1"><strong>Protecting Your Dog from Heatstroke</strong></h3><p dir="auto" style="text-align: left">As pet owners, our dogs’ well-being is a top priority. By understanding the signs of heatstroke, knowing the risks, and taking proactive steps to prevent it, you can help ensure your furry companion enjoys a healthy, happy life. Remember, if you ever have concerns about your dog’s health, don’t hesitate to reach out to (). Our team is here to support you and your pet, offering expert care and advice when you need it most. Call us now to make an appointment or to learn more about protecting your dog from heatstroke. Let’s work together to keep our pets safe and comfortable, no matter the temperature outside.</p>

As loving pet owners, it's essential to be vigilant about our dogs' health, especially during the warmer months. Heatstroke in dogs is a serious condition that can lead to severe health problems or even be fatal if not addressed promptly. It occurs when a dog's body temperature rises to a dangerous level. This blog will explore the signs of heatstroke in dogs and offer guidance on prevention, helping you keep your beloved pet safe and healthy. 

Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs: How You Can Prevent This

gtm_67f2a81053dc857452f08e77

Join our veterinary team at Springhurst Animal Hospital

springhurstanimalhospital

Please fill out the information below to get started.

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

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

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

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>

We look forward to seeing you! Please use our booking widget below to book an appointment today!

Below are some answers to our most common questions.

Additional Services

General Services

Speciality Services

Compassionate and quality care for dogs, cats, and exotic pets.

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

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

Sheet title

Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs: How You Can Prevent This

Recent Blogs

Related Blogs

Why Do Cats Vomit Hairballs and How to Prevent?

How to Remove a Tick from a Dog?

Feline Leukemia: Symptoms and Treatments for Cats

FAQs

Sheet title

Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs: How You Can Prevent This

Recent Blogs

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

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

Pet-Friendly Living in Springhurst and Northeast Louisville

Related Blogs

Why Do Cats Vomit Hairballs and How to Prevent?

How to Remove a Tick from a Dog?

Feline Leukemia: Symptoms and Treatments for Cats

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?