Animal Health Center

08/04/2026

Howdy folks!

It's been hotter lately and we just want to remind you to plan ahead for your pets and livestock. Adequate shade, access to water and regular check-ins are essential to keep animals safe.

Do you own a short nosed breed like a Bulldog or a Boxer? Be extra careful to not leave these dogs unattended outside for any length or time!!! Because of their shortened noses they struggle to themoregulate and will overheat easily - leading to life threatening conditions like heat stroke.

Horses colic more frequently in high heat scenarios and when water isn't available. Watch for rolling and abdominal discomfort. Be sure to check water troughs and open up spaces for horses to get in the shade to cool down.

More questions about caring for animals in the heat? Call us at (903)784-7387

Stay cool! God bless you all!

07/19/2026

We’re honored that the Paris News decided to honor Dr. Wally with an article about his awards & service. He loves his clients & is honored that so many of you have trusted us at Animal Health Center to care for your pets!

Dr. Wallace E. Kraft II, long time Paris veterinarian has served in so many prestigious positions and on so many boards.

07/13/2026

Big things are happening, and we couldn't be more proud!

Please join us in congratulating one of our incredible veterinary nurses, Rachel Hindsman-Ford as she begins her first year at Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine!

For the past four years, she has been an important part of our clinic family. Her compassion, dedication, and love for our patients have made a lasting impact on our team and the families we serve. Watching her grow over the years has been a privilege, and now we're excited to watch her take the next step toward becoming a veterinarian.

We know her future is bright, and there's no doubt she'll make an outstanding veterinarian. While we'll miss having her with us every day, we'll be cheering her on every step of the way.

Congratulations, and best of luck on this exciting new adventure! 🩺🐶🐱❤️ Rachel Hindsman Ford

06/23/2026

UPDATE: Power is restored! We will be back fully open at 12:30 please don’t hesitate to give us a call!

⚡️ MAKE SURE AND THANK YOUR LOCAL LINEMEN!!!!!!! ⚡️

Howdy Lamar county residents.

We are temporarily without power and phones are down! We will update as soon as possible when we are back online.

Thanks and God bless 🇺🇸

🐕 🐈 🐎 🐄 🐖 🐐 🐓

06/05/2026

We’re honored to be selected as the Chamber’s member of the month! We are thankful to work in this community. Our goal is to grow with our clients & offer the highest quality medicine for this community. Thank you!

Congratulations to the Animal Health Center for being selected as the Chamber Member of the Month! Located at 4200 Clarksville St in Paris, Texas!! Thank you to the Kraft family for your long time membership and everything you do in our community.

05/04/2026

📸 WANTED: Snack Thief

Suspect: Robert (aka “The Crumb Snatcher”)
Last seen: Near the snack table… again.

Crimes include:
• Stealing treats meant for staff
• Sipping unattended drinks
• Acting completely innocent when confronted

At this point, we have to ask… is it REALLY his fault, or are the snacks just too good? 🤔

Help us crack the case:
👉 What treats does YOUR pet go absolutely crazy for?

Bonus points for photos of your own snack bandits 👇

04/28/2026

🦟 Heartworm Disease: What Every Pet Owner Should Know 🐾

Heartworm disease is a serious, preventable condition that affects both dogs and cats—and it only takes one mosquito bite to put your pet at risk.
🔬 What are heartworms?
Heartworms are parasites that live in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. They are spread when an infected mosquito bites your pet and transmits microscopic larvae into the bloodstream.
🐶 In Dogs:
Heartworms can grow up to 12 inches long and multiply, causing damage to the heart and lungs over time. Symptoms may include:
• Persistent cough
• Fatigue after mild activity
• Weight loss
• Difficulty breathing
• In severe cases, heart failure
Treatment for dogs is possible, but it is costly, lengthy, and can be hard on your pet.
🐱 In Cats:
Cats are not natural hosts, but even a few worms can cause significant damage. Heartworm disease in cats often affects the lungs and can be mistaken for asthma. Signs may include:
• Coughing or wheezing
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Sudden collapse or even sudden death
Unfortunately, there is no approved treatment for heartworms in cats, which makes prevention critical.
🛡️ Prevention is simple and effective:
• Monthly heartworm preventatives (oral or topical)
• Year-round protection is recommended
• Annual testing for dogs to ensure early detection
🏠 Indoor pets are NOT immune!
Mosquitoes can easily get inside your home, putting even indoor-only pets at risk.
💙 Protect your pets before it’s too late.
Heartworm prevention is safe, affordable, and far easier than dealing with the disease itself.
📞 Call us today to discuss the best prevention plan for your dog or cat, or to schedule a heartworm test.

04/15/2026

Some common foods that we give our dogs are actually toxic to them. See the list below to know what foods to avoid!

04/13/2026

We’re so grateful for all of our amazing clients!
Your feedback reminds us why we do what we do every single day.

04/08/2026

As the weather warms up, we often see an increase in Coggins testing—especially since many events require a current negative test for participation or entry onto their grounds.
Most horse owners know that a Coggins test screens for Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA), but what exactly is it?
EIA is an incurable viral disease that affects horses, donkeys, mules, and other equine species. The virus attacks and destroys red blood cells and is spread through blood-to-blood contact. Unlike many diseases, it is not transmitted through casual contact or simply being near another horse. Instead, it is most commonly spread by biting insects like mosquitoes and flies.
If a horse tests positive for EIA, strict measures must be taken—either lifelong quarantine or humane euthanasia—due to the serious and contagious nature of the disease.
This is why keeping your horse’s Coggins test up to date is so important—not just for their health, but for the safety of the entire equine community. While there is currently no vaccine for EIA, there are several proactive steps you can take to help reduce risk:
• Keep your Coggins test current
• Use fly control measures such as sprays, masks, boots, and sheets
• Clean stalls and small pens daily to remove manure that attracts insects.
• Eliminate standing water where insects breed
• Quarantine new horses or any horse showing signs of illness, such as fever
If you have questions about Coggins testing or need to schedule an appointment, we’re here to help. Keeping your horses healthy and protected is always our top priority! 🐴