Life with a brand-new puppy or kitten often feels like a highlight reel of zoomies, toppled water bowls, and disappearing socks. Chaos keeps everyone smiling until a tiny body starts coughing, limping, or collapses. Quick decisions in those first minutes can change an outcome, yet many owners are unsure what counts as an emergency. Star [...]

Summer in Austin means long, sunny days—and while we might love the warmth, the Texas heat can be tough on our pets. At Star of Texas Veterinary Hospital, we want to make sure your pet stays safe, healthy, and comfortable, even on the hottest days. One of the biggest risks during warm weather? Heat stroke. [...]

You know your pet’s movements better than anyone, so when they start walking differently—slower steps, a slight hobble, or skipping a stride—it stands out. Limping is one of those symptoms that catches your attention quickly, and for good reason. At Star of Texas Veterinary Hospital, we take it seriously too. While some causes of limping [...]

Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the most heart-wrenching decisions any pet owner will ever face. At Star of Texas Veterinary Hospital in Austin, Texas, we’ve walked alongside countless families during this profoundly emotional time—and we understand the weight of it. If you’re asking yourself, “How do I know when it’s [...]

Understanding your cat's health is key to ensuring they live a long, comfortable, and happy life. One of the most common illnesses affecting cats—especially in shelters, multi-cat households, and outdoor environments—is the feline upper respiratory infection (URI). At Star of Texas Veterinary Hospital in Austin, Texas, we’re here to help you recognize, treat, and prevent [...]

Hair loss in dogs and cats, known medically as alopecia, is more than a cosmetic concern—it’s often a sign of an underlying health issue. Whether it's due to parasites, allergies, hormonal imbalances, or behavioral disorders, hair loss should never be ignored. This guide walks you through the most common causes, how veterinarians diagnose hair loss, [...]

Cancer is one of the leading health concerns for older pets. As dogs and cats age, the risk of developing cancer increases significantly—especially for dogs over the age of 10. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), nearly 50% of dogs over 10 years old will be diagnosed with some form of cancer. [...]

Vomiting in dogs is a common issue that ranges from mild and self-limiting to a symptom of a serious medical emergency. While it’s not unusual for dogs to occasionally vomit—especially if they’ve eaten something questionable—it’s important to understand when vomiting is cause for concern. At Star of Texas Veterinary Hospital, we believe that informed pet [...]

If your dog suddenly has a swollen, puffy ear that feels warm and soft—almost like a water balloon—you might be dealing with an ear hematoma. This condition isn’t just uncomfortable for your pet—it can be messy, painful, and lead to long-term issues if not treated promptly. At Star of Texas Veterinary Hospital in Austin, we [...]

Kennel cough—officially known as Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC)—is one of the most common reasons dog owners visit the vet. If you've ever heard a sharp, honking cough from your pup after a trip to the groomer or dog park, you've likely encountered it firsthand. While many cases are mild, kennel cough can lead [...]