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

How often should cats see a veterinarian? Learn about cat wellness exams, vaccine schedules, preventive care, and vet visits at every life stage.

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

Learn why pet vaccines are an important part of preventive care, how core and non-core vaccines work, and why staying current helps protect dogs and cats.

Pet Immunization Awareness Month: Why Vaccines Matter

Learn how cats change as they age, common senior cat health concerns, signs to watch for, and how regular veterinary care can support healthy aging.

Caring for Senior Cats: What Changes With Age?

Learn the common signs of pet anxiety, what causes stress in dogs and cats, and how to help your pet feel more comfortable and confident.

Pet Anxiety in Dogs and Cats: Signs, Causes, and Ways to Help

Learn practical lost pet prevention tips, including identification, training, and microchipping. Discover how to reduce the risk of your pet going missing.

Lost Pet Prevention Tips: How to Keep Your Dog or Cat Safe

Wed Jun 04 2025 12:50:38 GMT+0530 (India Standard Time)

Andover Animal Hospital

about-us-page

our-history-section

our-teams-section

We are dedicated to providing the highest level of care and friendly, compassionate service.

why-us-section

app-download-page

download-app-section

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

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.<div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>

copy-of-chagas-disease

Is Andover Animal Hospital accepting new patients?

#1f2937

Why do pet owners choose Andover Animal Hospital?

Preventative care services include wellness exams, vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, heartworm prevention, parasite screening, and routine health monitoring.

What preventative care options are available?

Can I book a veterinary appointment online?

Yes, the veterinary team performs a variety of surgical procedures, including spay and neuter surgeries and other medical procedures.

Accordion Title

Does Andover Animal Hospital offer urgent veterinary care?

Yes, Andover Animal Hospital welcomes new patients and provides comprehensive veterinary care for pets of all ages.

Pet owners choose Andover Animal Hospital for its compassionate veterinary team, comprehensive services, convenient hours, and commitment to personalized pet care.

What types of pets does Andover Animal Hospital treat?

Does Andover Animal Hospital perform surgeries?

Yes, Andover Animal Hospital offers pet grooming services to help keep pets healthy, clean, and comfortable.

Yes, the hospital can assist with urgent medical concerns during regular business hours and recommends calling ahead for urgent situations.

Does the hospital offer care for senior pets?

Yes, the team provides ongoing wellness care, diagnostics, and treatment options tailored to senior pets.

Yes, the hospital offers professional dental care services, including dental cleanings and dental radiology.

Does Andover Animal Hospital provide dental care for pets?

What veterinary services are offered?

Services include wellness exams, vaccinations, parasite prevention, dental care, dental radiology, diagnostic testing, advanced imaging, pet surgeries, spay and neuter procedures, microchipping, ozone therapy, acupuncture and preventative care.

Andover Animal Hospital provides veterinary care for dogs, cats, rabbits, pocket pets, birds, reptiles, and other small animals.

Does the hospital provide grooming services?

Yes, pet owners can conveniently request appointments online through the hospital’s website.


forms-page

get-in-touch

landing-page

contact-us-section

cta-bar

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-3

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">Puppies and kittens grow rapidly, develop strong immune systems, and learn the behaviors that shape them as adults. Early veterinary care ensures that they get the foundation they need to stay healthy, protected, and well adjusted. This guide explains what new pet owners should expect, starting from the very first exam through the milestones of the first year.</p><h2 dir="auto">Your Pet’s First Veterinary Exam: What to Expect</h2><p dir="auto">The first exam usually occurs within the first week of bringing your new puppy or kitten home. This visit allows your veterinarian to assess overall health, identify any early concerns, and create a personalized care plan for the first year. A complete physical exam evaluates weight and growth, heart and lung function, eyes, ears, nose, throat, oral development, skin and coat, lymph nodes, abdomen, musculoskeletal structure, and behavior. During this visit, your veterinarian may also perform fecal testing for intestinal parasites, start your pet on parasite prevention, and discuss nutrition, training, and any questions you may have. Bringing any existing medical records helps your veterinarian continue appropriate care.</p><h2 dir="auto">Vaccine Schedule for Puppies and Kittens</h2><p dir="auto">Vaccines protect young pets from serious infectious diseases. Because puppies and kittens lose maternal immunity gradually, they require a series of boosters for full protection. Core puppy vaccines typically include distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, parainfluenza, and rabies. Core kitten vaccines typically include feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia, and rabies. Boosters are typically administered every three to four weeks until your pet is about 16 weeks old. Your veterinarian will tailor the schedule based on age, lifestyle, and health status.</p><h2 dir="auto">Parasite Prevention and Early Diagnostics</h2><p dir="auto">Puppies and kittens are especially vulnerable to parasites, and many carry intestinal parasites before adoption. Your veterinarian may recommend fecal testing, deworming, monthly flea and tick prevention, monthly heartworm prevention for dogs, and parasite control for cats depending on lifestyle. Consistent prevention keeps young pets healthy and reduces the risk of parasites spreading to people or other animals.</p><h2 dir="auto">Nutrition for Healthy Growth</h2><p dir="auto">Growing pets require balanced diets designed specifically for puppies or kittens. These diets provide the correct ratios of protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals to support development. Feed a diet labeled for growth or all life stages, avoid unnecessary food changes, discuss portion sizes with your veterinarian, and avoid overfeeding. Do not feed homemade or raw diets without veterinary guidance. Your veterinary team can help you select a diet that supports healthy growth.</p><h2 dir="auto">Microchipping and Identification</h2><p dir="auto">Microchipping provides permanent identification if your pet becomes lost. It is a quick procedure performed during a regular exam or at the time of spay or neuter surgery. Collars and tags are helpful, but microchips offer a reliable safety net.</p><h2 dir="auto">Socialization and Early Behavior Development</h2><p dir="auto">The first year is a critical period for social and behavioral development. Early experiences shape how pets respond to new people and environments. Your veterinarian may recommend controlled exposure to new situations, positive reinforcement training, crate training for puppies, litter box optimization for kittens, and early behavioral guidance to prevent fear based behaviors. Establishing good habits early supports long term confidence and well-being.</p><h2 dir="auto">Spay and Neuter Planning</h2><p dir="auto">Spaying or neutering protects your pet’s health and prevents unplanned litters. Timing varies by species, breed, and medical considerations. Your veterinarian will discuss the recommended timing during early visits. Some pets benefit from surgery around six months of age, while others may have individualized timing based on orthopedic or behavioral factors.</p><h2 dir="auto">Follow Up Visits During the First Year</h2><p dir="auto">Puppies and kittens typically have more veterinary visits in the first year than at any other life stage. These visits allow your veterinarian to complete vaccine boosters, monitor growth, adjust nutrition and preventives, address behavioral questions, perform spay or neuter surgery, and transition your pet to adult wellness care.</p><h2 dir="auto">Building a Healthy Future Starts Now</h2><p dir="auto">Early veterinary care sets the foundation for a lifetime of health. By understanding what to expect during the first year, new pet owners can help their puppies and kittens grow into strong, confident, and healthy adults. Schedule your new pet’s first exam with your nearest United Veterinary Care clinic to start them on the right path from the beginning.</p><p dir="auto"></p>

Bringing home a new puppy or kitten is an exciting experience, and the first year of life is the most important time for establishing long term health.

New Pet Care Guide: What Every Puppy and Kitten Needs in the First Year

gtm_683ff31c922db540aa812d3a

Join our veterinary team at Andover Animal Hospital!

andoveranimalshospital

Our veterinary team is here for you and your pet every step of the way! If you have questions or concerns, please contact us.

Download Otto Care App on Google Play or the App Store.

The Otto Care app lets pet owners conveniently connect with their veterinary clinic to get the best care for their pets. Easily chat with your clinic, manage appointments, and stay synced with your pets health.

We provide compassionate and quality care for your pet.

Open 7 days a week with same-day appointment options. Call ahead for availability.

Over 60 years serving our community, helping 10,000+ pets with compassionate, personalized care.

<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, and we are happy to offer a no-interest payment plan through CareCredit.</p>

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

Consult Online

Online Store

Pet Portal

Forms

Download App

Additional Services

General Services

Speciality Services

At Andover Animal Hospital, we provide urgent veterinary care and same-day sick visits for dogs, cats, and select small companion pets in Andover, MA, and surrounding communities, including North Andover, Lawrence, Methuen, and Tewksbury.

Urgent Care

We want to take this opportunity to welcome you, your family, and your particular family member to the grooming service at (). Our trained and competent groomers contribute to your beloved pets' beauty, health, and well-being.

Pet Grooming

At Andover Animal Hospital, we provide veterinary acupuncture services for dogs, cats, and select small companion pets in Andover, MA, and surrounding communities, including North Andover, Lawrence, Methuen, and Tewksbury.

Veterinary Acupuncture

At Andover Animal Hospital, we offer ozone therapy as part of our integrative veterinary care services for pets in Andover, MA, and surrounding communities. Our experienced veterinary team works closely with pet owners to determine if ozone therapy is the right option for their dog, cat, rabbit, bird, reptile, or pocket pet.

Ozone Therapy

At Andover Animal Hospital, we provide veterinary laser therapy for dogs, cats, and select small companion pets in Andover, MA, and nearby communities, including North Andover, Lawrence, Methuen, and Tewksbury.

Laser Therapy

At Andover Animal Hospital, we provide end-of-life support services for dogs, cats, and small companion pets in Andover, MA, and surrounding communities, including North Andover, Lawrence, Methuen, and Tewksbury.

End-of-Life Support

At Andover Animal Hospital, we provide veterinary dermatology and allergy care for dogs, cats, and select small companion pets in Andover, MA, and surrounding communities, including North Andover, Lawrence, Methuen, and Tewksbury.

Pet Dermatology & Allergy Care

At Andover Animal Hospital, we provide pet behavior and anxiety support services for dogs, cats, and select small companion pets in Andover, MA, and surrounding communities, including North Andover, Lawrence, Methuen, and Tewksbury.

Pet Behavior & Anxiety Support

At Andover Animal Hospital, we provide pet nutrition and weight management support for dogs, cats, and select small companion pets in Andover, MA, and surrounding communities, including North Andover, Lawrence, Methuen, and Tewksbury.

Pet Nutrition

At Andover Animal Hospital, we offer virtual veterinary consultations for dogs, cats, and select small companion pets in Andover, MA, and surrounding communities, including North Andover, Lawrence, Methuen, and Tewksbury.

Virtual Vet Care

At Andover Animal Hospital, we provide wellness exams for dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, pocket pets, and exotic pets in Andover, MA, and the surrounding communities, including North Andover, Lawrence, Tewksbury, and Methuen.

Wellness Exams

At Andover Animal Hospital, we provide professional veterinary dental care for dogs, cats, and select exotic and small companion pets in Andover, MA, and the surrounding communities, including North Andover, Lawrence, Tewksbury, and Methuen.

Dental Care

At Andover Animal Hospital, we provide parasite prevention for dogs, cats, and select exotic and small companion pets in Andover, MA and nearby communities, including North Andover, Lawrence, Methuen, and Tewksbury.

Parasite Prevention

At Andover Animal Hospital, we provide diagnostic testing for dogs, cats, and select exotic and small companion pets in Andover, MA and surrounding communities, including North Andover, Lawrence, Methuen, and Tewksbury.

Diagnostic Testing

At Andover Animal Hospital, we provide advanced diagnostic imaging for dogs, cats, and select exotic and small companion pets in Andover, MA, and surrounding communities, including North Andover, Lawrence, Methuen, and Tewksbury.

Advanced Diagnostic Imaging

At Andover Animal Hospital, we provide personalized pet vaccinations for dogs, cats, and select exotic and small companion pets in Andover, MA and surrounding communities including North Andover, Lawrence, Methuen, and Tewksbury.

Sheet title

New Pet Care Guide: What Every Puppy and Kitten Needs in the First Year

Recent Blogs

Related Blogs

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

Pet Immunization Awareness Month: Why Vaccines Matter

Lost Pet Prevention Tips: How to Keep Your Dog or Cat Safe

FAQs

Sheet title

New Pet Care Guide: What Every Puppy and Kitten Needs in the First Year

Recent Blogs

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

Pet Immunization Awareness Month: Why Vaccines Matter

Caring for Senior Cats: What Changes With Age?

Related Blogs

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

Pet Immunization Awareness Month: Why Vaccines Matter

Lost Pet Prevention Tips: How to Keep Your Dog or Cat Safe

FAQs

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?

What are the most common health issues for senior pets?

What is the best diet for my dog or cat?

How do I order my pet's prescription items online?