Basic Veterinary Examination – The First and Most Important Step Toward Health

Whether you come for a regular check-up, vaccination, or due to suspicion of illness, the basic veterinary examination is the starting point of every diagnostic process.
 During this examination, the veterinarian gathers key information to help assess the general health status of the animal, detect possible problems, and, if necessary, refer for further tests or treatment.
 At our veterinary clinic in Novi Sad, we perform basic examinations on dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, degus, chinchillas, various species of birds (including parrots), as well as reptiles – snakes and lizards.
 👉 We are proud to be the first clinic in Novi Sad and the surrounding area that has actively and professionally dedicated itself to treating rabbits, small rodents, and birds, and as such, we have the longest and richest experience working with these species.
 Thanks to this, many diseases that often remain unrecognized elsewhere are diagnosed early by us and successfully treated.
 Each species has its own specifics, so the approach and method of examination are adapted both to the species and the individual needs of the animal.

ANAMNESIS – Conversation with the Owner

The examination begins with a conversation. The veterinarian asks about the pet’s behavior, diet, habits, any changes in appetite, stool, urination, activity, or mood.
 Owners often notice subtle changes first, which may indicate that something is wrong, so this part of the exam is very important.

GENERAL CLINICAL EXAMINATION

 The veterinarian thoroughly examines the animal, paying attention to:

  • skin and coat (presence of wounds, parasites, allergies, hair loss)
  • eyes and ears (redness, discharge, inflammation)
  • oral cavity (teeth, gums, tongue, breath odor)
  • body (possible swellings, pain, irregularities on palpation)
  • nails and paws

The exam is gentle and thorough, painless for the pet, and allows early detection of potential problems.

MEASUREMENT OF VITAL SIGNS

 At the end of the examination, the following are measured:

  • body temperature

  • pulse and heart rate

  • respiratory rate

  • degree of hydration (skin elasticity and condition of mucous membranes)

These parameters provide important information about the functioning of the heart, lungs, and the entire body system.

The basic examination lasts only a few minutes but can play a crucial role in prevention and early detection of diseases.
 Therefore, we recommend it even when “nothing is happening” — because the best time to treat diseases is before they manifest.
 If you live in Novi Sad or nearby, scheduling a regular check-up at our clinic means you are taking care of your pet’s health the right way.
 Whether your pet walks, jumps, flies, or crawls — we are here to care for its health.

Specifics of Rabbit Examination

 Rabbits are sensitive animals that often hide symptoms of illness until the problem becomes serious. That’s why the exam should be performed gently and without stress.
 Special attention is given to dental health because tooth problems can lead to loss of appetite and serious complications.
 The condition of the skin, ears, stool, and body weight is also checked — all indicators of general health.
 Dr. Vladimir Ćurčić and Dr. Stefan Papić specialize in examinations of rabbits and rodents at our clinic.

Specifics of Bird Examination

Bird examination requires a special approach because these are fragile and easily stressed animals. Proper handling during the exam is crucial to avoid injuries.
 The veterinarian checks feathers, beak, breathing, body weight, and appearance of droppings. For parrots, speech, behavior, and appetite changes are also monitored as early signs of potential problems.
 Bird diseases often progress rapidly, and symptoms appear late, so preventive exams are especially important.
 At our clinic, bird examinations are performed by Dr. Nebojša Živković (Novi Sad) and Dr. Merima Rakić Radonić (Veternik).

Specifics of Reptile Examination

Snakes, lizards, and turtles require special care and understanding of their physiology. These examinations include checking living conditions, diet, skin, eyes, and behavior.
 Dr. Stefan Papić specializes in reptile examinations and treatment.

Care for Older Pets – Prevention for Quality Aging

 As our pets age, their bodies change and become more prone to chronic diseases — heart, kidney, joint, and hormonal disorders.
 Therefore, it is recommended that older animals be examined at least once a year, ideally twice a year.
 Regular check-ups allow diseases to be caught early and treated with diet, therapy, or lifestyle adjustments.
 Our team in Novi Sad, with Dr. Renata Čolić, and in Veternik, with Dr. Danica Kitanović, provides a comprehensive approach to caring for older pets, aiming not only for longer life but also a life free from pain, discomfort, and sudden deterioration.

For all types of examinations and advice — contact us and schedule an appointment.
 We care for every pet as if it were our own.