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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Purring is the most common sound a cat makes and what owners are used to. Yet we know less about the unique sound than meowing, hissing, and growling. Many cat owners are taught that cat purrs are to show that the cat is happy, although a cat’s meow has more meanings.While purring is partly instinctive and voluntary for cats, cats can use the purr sound for various reasons, such as using the soft rumble to communicate as a form of healing or self-soothing. This is why cats will purr whenever they are in pain, injured, or are in a stressful situation.Here is what you need to know about cat purring. This article will inform you how they purr, how you can tell what your cat’s purring means, why they do it, and other facts about cats’ purr.<h2 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.1">When&nbsp;Do&nbsp;Cats&nbsp;Start&nbsp;Purring?</h2>Cats begin to purr after a few days of being born. Kittens are born blind until two weeks old. When they are blind, they use purring to communicate with their mother to alert them on where they are, and to draw their attention when they are getting hungry or when it’s feeding time. Cats carry this behavior till adulthood and will be familiar to cat parents whenever it’s time for dinner. These are just a few of the ways purrs are used by cats.<h2 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.1">How&nbsp;Do&nbsp;Cats&nbsp;Purr?</h2>When a cat purrs, nerve signals are sent to the muscles of the voice box and diaphragm, which helps expand the chest once breathing. These nerve signals stimulate the vocal cords, so when a cat takes in air and exhales, the air in the diaphragm moves across these muscles, resulting in the purring sound of both domestic and wild cats.Purring has developed throughout the years to help keep cats’ bones and muscles intact at all times. This is extremely useful during long periods of inactivity, like the hunting style, when they have to wait a while before they pounce on prey and ambush it. The cat's purr is almost a continuous sound. A cat’s purr is when they both inhale and exhale.Scientist used to believe that cat purring would usually come from the vibration of their hearts, and if you felt your cat purring, you would know why they used that theory. Air vibrates whenever the cat inhales and exhales at approximately 25 to 150 vibrations per second.<h2 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.1">Why&nbsp;Do&nbsp;Cats&nbsp;Purr?</h2>Cats purr for different situations, which causes multiple theories on the sound they make. Here are different reasons cats purr.<h3 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.1">Your&nbsp;Cat&nbsp;Is&nbsp;Happy</h3>&nbsp;Cat’s owners are used to hearing their cat purr whenever their cat is content and happy. It’s like how a dog wiggles its tail and jumps, all excited.Your cat is sitting on your lap and getting pets and scratches. They are probably purring to inform you they love what they are receiving, a nonverbal way to communicate with their owners without using words, but sounds. If your cat is receiving love and it purrs, you don’t need to worry; just keep showing your cat love.Humans laugh and dogs wag their tails when happy, cats produce a low rasping vibration sound that is often heard when they’re being pet or scratched. Cats can purr to other cats or even other pets like dogs.&nbsp;<h3 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.1">Your&nbsp;Cat&nbsp;Wants&nbsp;Food&nbsp;or&nbsp; Something Else</h3>&nbsp;Sometimes cats purr whenever they are hungry or want something. Researchers have differentiated the purrs of content versus hunger. The purr sounds like their pleasant purr and a whining purr, like a child whining or crying. Cat owners are more likely to respond to the sound.<h3 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.1">For&nbsp;Healing&nbsp;Mechanism</h3>&nbsp;Although purring takes so much energy, cats use this sound as a form of self-meditation or relief from pain and recovery whenever they are hurt. It’s simply a way for cats to soothe themselves, similar to a child that sucks their thumb to feel better or a man humming or talking to himself.According to studies, purring is done at a low frequency that helps to stimulate the injured area to make it feel better, including most of the tendons and bones. The frequencies of the purrs cause vibrations within their body, which can:<ul><li>Reduce pain and swelling</li><li>Ease breathing</li><li>Repair tissues, tendons and build muscles.</li><li>Heal bones and wounds.</li></ul>This might explain how cats are able to survive falls and the theory of cats having nine lives. They also tend to have less complications after a surgery than other pets.

Purring is the most common sound cats make and what owners are used to. Yet we know less about the unique sound than meowing, hissing, and growling. Many cat owners are taught that cat purrs are to show that the cat is happy, although a cat's meow has more meanings.



Why Do Cats Purr?

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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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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.

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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.

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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Why Do Cats Purr?

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Why Do Cats Purr?

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?

Related Blogs

How to Help Your Pet Stay Calm This Halloween

Why is My Dog Limping?

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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?