Present this coupon to claim $25 off your pet's first exam and get started with care designed around your pet.

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

Learn how to reduce pet anxiety during Halloween with veterinarian-approved tips. Help your dog or cat stay calm and happy when costumes, candy, and trick-or-treaters arrive.

How to Help Your Pet Stay Calm This Halloween

Limping is a common sign of discomfort in the bones or muscles of your dog, but it can have a variety of causes. In the article below, we will discuss some of the common causes and tips for your vet visit. It's always best to have your pet examined by a veterinarian if you notice Fido limping.

Why is My Dog Limping?

There are a few reasons our feline friends make us sneeze and wheeze. They produce something called the feline d1 protein, which is in their saliva, dander, and fur. This allergen is what we're thought to be allergic to. Many of the longer, fluffier-haired breeds of cats shed more often and along with their dander.

Best Cat Breeds For People With Allergies

Many dogs howl, and some breeds howl much more often than others. You might wonder why your dog howls. What triggers the howling? Why do some dogs seem to howl for no apparent reason? Some people think howling dogs are adorable, but some owners of dogs that howl frequently can be very annoyed with this behavior. 

Dog Howling: What Does It Mean?

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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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New Clients Receive $25 Off Their First Exam

This offer entitles any first-time pet parent to our hospital (New Client) a discount of $25 for one pet.Coupon must be presented at time of visit. Not valid for existing customers of other Tuder group locations or with previous purchases. Limit one coupon per New Client. Pet parents must be 18 years or older. No cash value. Void where prohibited by law. Expires 12/31/26.

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<h2 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em">Why is fecal parasite testing important?</h2>Yes, we live in the north and have very cold and snowy winters. Intuitively, one would think that this would help kill many parasites. Believe it or not, we do see lots of pets with intestinal parasites in Massachusetts. Even pets that spend all or much of their time indoors or in a fenced yard are not immune. Pretty much every day, we see fecal test reports come back from the lab with positive results. We commonly see roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, tapeworms, Giardia, and coccidia in our patients. These parasites are all extremely treatable, but many are contagious to people (especially kids) and can make pets pretty sick until they are discovered and treated.<h2 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em">How on earth could these parasites be getting into our pets?</h2>Well, we do have plenty of wildlife around, even in urban areas. Infected wildlife or pets that poop outside can contaminate soil, ponds or puddles with worm eggs, larvae or protozoa cysts. Pets that simply walk around outside can pick up infectious forms of the organisms on their feet. As soon as they lick their feet, they can become infected. Drinking water from contaminated sources is another way that pets commonly get infected. Ingestion of infected wildlife (like rodents) is another source. But what about my indoor cat? If your cat is a great hunter, you may not have even known that a mouse got into your house. Cockroaches and flies are other known sources since they may eat animal feces and come into the house. Cats love chasing bugs. Fleas are small enough to fit through screens and spread tapeworms to your cat when eaten during normal grooming. Even house plants can be a source of infection. It has been found that 5-10 % of all potting soil contains roundworm eggs.<h2 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em">Won’t I know if my pet has parasites?</h2>Depending on the type of parasite and number of worms, your cat or dog may be pretty sick with diarrhea or vomiting, prompting suspicion and fecal parasite testing. Some pets may have pooped or vomited evidence of the worms. Other parasites show minimal symptoms. Perhaps an occasional soft stool is chalked up to eating something from the table. Maybe there has been an unexplained mild weight loss. Every pet should have a poop sample brought to the vet for testing every year. Some pets may need more frequent testing if they hunt or have more wildlife or dog park exposure. Monthly parasite preventatives are a must. Heartworm preventatives for both dogs and cats provide some protection against some intestinal worms, but no product exists that protects against everything. Annual poop testing is one of the most important parts of veterinary care for your pet and a safety measure for your family.

Yes, we live in the north and have very cold and snowy winters. Intuitively, one would think that this would help kill many parasites. Believe it or not, we do actually see lots of pets with intestinal parasites in Massachusetts. Even pets that spend all or much of their time indoors or in a fenced yard are not immune. Pretty much every day, we see fecal test reports come back from the lab with positive results.

The Importance of Parasite Testing

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With our new app, you will have all of your pet's health information in the palm of your hand. Consider it your pet's personal organizer app. Best of all, it's free!

Keeping up with your pet's health from your mobile device has never been easier!

Please fill out the information below to get started.

Compassionate and quality care for your pets.

Need to be seen today? Call us for same-day appointment availability.

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

Trusted care across Hudson County, with sister locations in Bayonne & Hoboken.

To help us provide the best care possible, payment is required at the time of service. We accept cash and all major credit cards, and we are happy to offer a deferred interest payment plan through CareCredit.

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$25 Off First Exam for New Clients! See Below for Details.

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Heights Veterinary Associates is part of the Tuder Group, with sister locations in Hoboken and Jersey City. Visit Bayonne Animal Hospital, Downtown Veterinary Associates, or Animal Infirmary of Hoboken for the same expert care.

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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.

Pet Behavior & Anxiety Support

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

Laser Therapy

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

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

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.

Dermatology & Allergy Care

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

Pet Nutrition

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.

End-of-Life Support

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.

Vaccinations

Comprehensive surgical services, from routine procedures to complex operations, all are performed with expert care.

Pet Surgeries

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.

Diagnostic Testing

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

Advanced Diagnostic Imaging

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.

Spay And Neuter

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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The Importance of Parasite Testing

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The Importance of Parasite Testing

Recent Blogs

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

How to Help Your Pet Stay Calm This Halloween

Why is My Dog Limping?

FAQs

How long has Heights Veterinary Associates been open?

Do you have other locations in the Jersey City area?

Do you offer same-day appointments at Heights Veterinary Associates?

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?