Cardiological Examination – When the Heart Matters
The heart is the central organ of every living being, including dogs and cats. Its function affects the overall health, mood, and quality of life of your pet. Unfortunately, heart diseases in animals often develop silently and without visible symptoms — until they become a serious problem. That is why the cardiological examination is crucial for early diagnosis and monitoring of heart conditions, especially in older animals and breeds prone to genetic heart defects.
At our veterinary clinic in Novi Sad, we provide a comprehensive and detailed cardiological examination, which includes several diagnostic steps carefully tailored to each patient.
Echocardiography (Heart Ultrasound)
Heart ultrasound provides insight into the functioning of the heart chambers, valves, and blood flow through the heart. This non-invasive method is a fundamental tool for detecting thickening of the heart walls, enlargement, congenital defects, and other functional changes not visible in a regular examination.
Chest X-ray
X-ray imaging is used to assess the shape and size of the heart, as well as the condition of the lungs and blood vessels. In chronic heart failure, fluid accumulation in the lungs may be detected, indicating the need for immediate therapy.
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
ECG measures the electrical activity of the heart and is used to detect arrhythmias, slow heart rate, tachycardia, or conduction disorders. This analysis is especially important in dogs that lose consciousness, show signs of weakness, or have irregular breathing rhythms at rest.
Blood Pressure Measurement
As in humans, high or low blood pressure in dogs and cats can indicate heart, kidney, or hormonal problems. Therefore, blood pressure measurement is an integral part of a complete cardiological examination, particularly in older pets.
At our clinic in Novi Sad, all these procedures are performed by Dr. Renata Čolić, who is rightly considered one of the most skilled veterinarians specializing in cardiology for dogs in the city, and probably in Serbia. Her serious approach, continuous professional development, and vast clinical experience allow her to handle every case expertly and attentively.
Cardiological Examination and Heartworm – An Essential Link
One of the diseases for which the cardiological examination is not only recommended but necessary is infection with heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis).
This disease, transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito, primarily affects the pulmonary arteries and the heart of the dog. If not detected and treated on time, it can lead to severe damage to the heart, lungs, and blood vessels, and even death.
Therefore, for every dog diagnosed with heartworm infection, a complete cardiological examination must be performed immediately. It helps determine the stage of the disease and define the exact treatment protocol. In early stages, therapy can be simpler and with less risk, while advanced cases require careful adjustment to avoid complications from parasite death in the bloodstream.
Without prior cardiological assessment, treatment against heartworm can be risky for both the heart and the dog’s life. That is why in our clinic, treatment never begins without a thorough heart examination.
If you are in Novi Sad or nearby and your pet has been diagnosed with heartworm or you suspect heart problems — the cardiological examination is the next and most important step.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Renata Čolić and give your dog a chance for timely, safe, and expert treatment.
Your pet’s heart deserves the best care.
