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Learn what AAHA accreditation means, why it matters for your pet's care, and how accredited veterinary hospitals maintain high standards in companion animal medicine.

AAHA-Accredited Hospital Day: Why AAHA Accreditation Matters

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

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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>

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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.

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<h1 dir="auto">AAHA-Accredited Hospital Day: What Accreditation Means for Your Pet</h1><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">Each year on July 22, veterinary teams across the United States celebrate AAHA-Accredited Hospital Day. The day recognizes veterinary hospitals that have chosen to pursue and maintain accreditation through the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), an organization dedicated to advancing standards in companion animal healthcare.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">For pet owners, AAHA accreditation is more than a credential. It reflects a hospital's commitment to quality care, patient safety, and continuous improvement.</p><h2 dir="auto">What Is AAHA?</h2><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">The American Animal Hospital Association, or AAHA, is the only organization in the United States that accredits companion animal veterinary hospitals.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">Unlike many healthcare certifications, AAHA accreditation is entirely voluntary. Veterinary hospitals choose to pursue accreditation because they are committed to meeting standards that go beyond the minimum requirements for veterinary practice.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">Today, only a small percentage of veterinary hospitals in the United States have earned AAHA accreditation, making it a meaningful distinction within the profession.</p><h2 dir="auto">What Does It Mean to Be AAHA Accredited?</h2><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">To become accredited, a veterinary hospital undergoes a comprehensive evaluation that examines hundreds of aspects of patient care and hospital operations.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">These standards cover areas including:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">Patient safety</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Anesthesia and pain management</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Surgical procedures</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Dentistry</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Diagnostic services</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Medical records</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Infection control</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Team training and continuing education</p></li></ul><p dir="auto">Accreditation is not a one-time achievement. Hospitals must continue to meet these standards through ongoing evaluations to maintain their accredited status.</p><h2 dir="auto">Why Accreditation Matters</h2><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">When a veterinary hospital chooses to pursue accreditation, it is making a commitment to consistently evaluate and improve the care it provides.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">For pet owners, that means confidence that the hospital follows established best practices designed to support patient health and safety.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">From routine wellness visits to advanced medical procedures, accreditation helps ensure that systems, protocols, and training are in place to support high-quality care throughout a pet's life.</p><h2 dir="auto">A Team Commitment to Excellence</h2><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">AAHA accreditation reflects the work of an entire veterinary team.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">Veterinarians, veterinary technicians, assistants, client service representatives, and hospital leaders all play a role in maintaining the standards required for accreditation.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">This shared commitment helps create an environment focused on continuous learning, collaboration, and patient-centered care.</p><h2 dir="auto">Why AAHA-Accredited Hospital Day Matters</h2><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">AAHA-Accredited Hospital Day provides an opportunity to recognize the dedication veterinary teams bring to their patients every day. It also helps raise awareness about the importance of accreditation and the role it plays in supporting quality veterinary medicine.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">While accreditation is voluntary, hospitals that pursue it demonstrate a commitment to maintaining high standards and continually improving the care they provide.</p><h2 dir="auto">Learn More About AAHA Accreditation</h2><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">Understanding what AAHA accreditation represents can help pet owners make informed decisions about their pet's healthcare.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto">To learn more about AAHA accreditation and the standards behind it, visit the American Animal Hospital Association at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="link" href="http://www.aaha.org">www.aaha.org</a>.</p><p dir="auto"></p>

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androscogginanimalhospital

We love educating our clients! That's why we have curated and shared posts filled with helpful information regarding pet care.

Compassionate and quality care for your pet.

Same-day appointments welcome, call/text us for options!

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

This accreditation is important as it exemplifies the standard of veterinary excellence.

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

CareCredit

Trupanion Pet Insurance

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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

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Home Again

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Coastal Maine Great Dane Rescue

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The Indoor Pet Initiative

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Traveling Out of the Country with Your Pet

AAHA Pet Health Library

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<p>Here at Androscoggin Animal Hospital, we accept many different payment options, including cash, checks, CareCredit, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express.</p>

<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 deferred interest payment plan through CareCredit.</p>

<p>Get the care you need today, and pay for treatment costs overtime with a Scratch plan.</p>

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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.

Pet Microchipping

Get expert pet care from home with virtual vet telemedicine at (). Our licensed vets provide secure, convenient video visits for minor issues, follow-ups, and wellness advice, perfect for anxious pets or busy owners. Book your virtual vet appointment today.

Virtual Vet Care

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

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

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.


Pet Prescriptions

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

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

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 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

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

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

Pet Surgeries

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

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


Advanced Diagnostic Imaging

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

Simplify pet care with affordable wellness packages at (). Our customized plans cover exams, vaccines, parasite prevention, and diagnostics for every life stage, puppy, adult, or senior. Enjoy predictable pricing, peace of mind, and healthier pets with routine, proactive care.

Wellness Packages

Discover hidden dental issues before they cause pain with pet dental radiology at (). Our veterinary dental X-rays reveal infections, bone loss, and tooth damage beneath the gum line, ensuring safer, more effective treatment. Non-invasive and included in every comprehensive dental cleaning, dental radiographs for pets help protect your pet's health, comfort, and smile for years to come.


Dental Radiology

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.

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