Introduction
Modern society has now recognized the importance of pets, not only as companions but also as family members. In this context, the veterinarian plays a crucial role in maintaining their health by providing high-quality diagnostic and therapeutic services. Their presence is vital for both stray animals and pets, as they contribute to the prevention and treatment of diseases, improve the quality of life of animals, and raise awareness in society about responsible care.
For this reason, we visited the veterinary clinic of Mr. Dimitris Mantoudis, a specialized veterinarian with deep knowledge and many years of experience, in order to learn more about his profession, the development of the field, and his journey toward creating a state-of-the-art veterinary clinic.
The beginning
Dimitris Mantoudis graduated from the Veterinary School of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in 1998. Two years later, in 2000, he took his first professional step in the private sector by opening his first veterinary clinic in Kavala.
However, in 2002, he decided to follow a different path, being appointed to the public sector, specifically at the Veterinary Laboratory in Stavros, where he worked for 13 years.
Despite the stability offered by his public sector job, his need for direct contact with animals and their owners led him in 2015 to decide to return to the private sector and reopen his own veterinary clinic in Amygdaleonas, Kavala.
As he himself states:
“I want contact with animals and with people. I want that interaction. For an animal to come in and for me to try to make it well.”
This transition was not easy. He had to start again from scratch, rebuild his reputation, and establish his name in the local community. Through continuous education, dedication, and hard work, Mr. Mantoudis managed to create a veterinary clinic that has become a landmark in the Kavala area.
The Core Services of the Veterinary Clinic
Το κτηνιατρείο του κ. Μαντούδη παρέχει ένα ευρύ φάσμα υπηρεσιών, μεταξύ των οποίων:
- Surgical Department: Spaying and neutering, soft tissue surgeries
- Imaging Examinations: Digital X-rays, ultrasound scanner.: Ψηφιακό ακτινολογικό, υπερηχοτομογράφος.
- Laboratory Tests:Hematological, biochemical, laboratory diagnostics
- Intensive Care & Hospitalization : Support for animals in critical condition: Υποστήριξη ζώων σε κρίσιμη κατάσταση.
- Dentistry:Comprehensive care of the oral cavity and teeth of pets
- : Comprehensive care of the oral cavity and teeth of pets
- Specialized Diets:Special nutritional options that can aid in healing and support of animal health issues
Mr. Mantoudis also operates an e-shop, offering quality pet foods, accessories, and care products, as well as specialized diets for clinical nutrition of dogs and cats. His customers can benefit from free shipping on orders over €50 nationwide, and for orders over €30 within the Municipality of Kavala and the Municipality of Pangaio, ensuring easy and reliable access to everything they need for the health and well-being of their beloved pets.
Innovation and Awards
Mr. Mantoudis, with his continuous pursuit of advancement, has been honored with the Silver Cat Friendly Clinic Award 2023, being one of only three cat-friendly veterinary clinics in Greece.
At his veterinary clinic, a specialized team of professionals cares for cats with particular attention, using special techniques that reduce their stress and ensure a comfortable experience during examinations. At the same time, Mr. Mantoudis continues to develop as a scientist by pursuing a postgraduate program titled “General Practitioner Certificate in Feline Practice” at the International School of Veterinary Postgraduate Studies, gaining further expertise in feline care.
Remaining dedicated to advancement, he incorporates new technologies into his practice, selecting advanced equipment for the diagnosis and treatment of animals.
Usually, the clinical examination is done with simple tools, such as a stethoscope or thermometer. I have incorporated the measurement of eye pressure into daily practice in order to have a more comprehensive picture.
Additionally, he chooses state-of-the-art equipment:
When I bought an X-ray machine, I chose a digital one instead of an older technology. I didn’t go for cheaper options but for whatever could offer the best possible diagnosis.
The veterinary sector is rapidly evolving, and nowadays veterinary clinics in Greece, even in regional areas, are beginning to equip themselves with technologies such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Until about 10 years ago, many veterinary clinics didn’t even have radiology equipment. Now, not only do they have it, but we also see regional veterinary clinics investing in magnetic resonance imaging machines. I try to keep up with the advancements, even though it’s difficult to keep pace with all the changes.
Collaboration with the Municipality of Kavala and the Care of Stray Animals
Mr. Mantoudis has developed a long-term collaboration with the Municipality of Kavala, actively contributing to the care of the area’s stray animals. Recently, he played a key role in the establishment of the new municipal shelter, offering valuable advice regarding the equipment of the accompanying municipal veterinary clinic.
The Municipality of Kavala established a new animal shelter that includes a municipal veterinary clinic. The officials didn’t have the specialized knowledge required to determine the necessary equipment, so they asked me to guide and assist them. I prepared a detailed list of all the essential machines and tools needed for a modern veterinary clinic. Today, the clinic is fully equipped with devices such as an anesthesia machine, anesthesia monitor, and other critical equipment, and is ready to operate, offering services like spaying/neutering, soft tissue surgeries, basic veterinary care, and hospitalization for sick animals.
Additionally, the Municipality of Kavala operates three shelters for stray animals, where citizens can find pets available for adoption.
Anyone interested in adopting an animal can visit the shelters of the Municipality of Kavala, choose a puppy or an adult animal, and bring it to the Veterinary Clinic at the Municipal Kennel for vaccination and its first clinical examination. The Municipality covers the cost of vaccinations and electronic identification, which is mandatory by law. This way, the animal is registered in the National Registry, ensuring its protection.
Realizing the Vision: The Modern Veterinary Clinic
The development of Mr. Mantoudis’ veterinary clinic through funding programs has been crucial. As he himself states:
Το πρώτο ιατρείο μου το άνοιξα το 2000 και δεν έχει καμία σχέση με το σημερινό, μόνο την πολυθρόνα του γραφείου μου κράτησα. Όλα τα άλλα είναι καινούργια.
The program he utilized allowed for a complete upgrade of the equipment and services he offers:
This program helped a lot. I believe it was a move that changed the way I work and my daily routine. It made my life easier regarding the services I offer at the clinic. For example, if there was an injured animal and I needed to take an X-ray, I had to send it to Kavala. There was no other place. But now, we do everything here.
With the support of ena Development Consultants, and specifically with the contribution of Valia Resta, SME Competitiveness Sector Development Consultant, Mr. Mantoudis was included in the "Support for Business Establishment" Program under the Regional Smart Specialization Strategy (Action 3a.4.2). This Action allowed him to create an ultra-modern veterinary clinic in Kavala, which was implemented with a 70% subsidy and completed in 2024.
Mr. Mantoudis’ veterinary clinic is a shining example of entrepreneurship and progress in the veterinary field. With passion, perseverance, and strategic decisions, he succeeded in building a business that stands out for its quality, authenticity, and social contribution.
We thank Mr. Mantoudis for his hospitality and the valuable discussion!
Valia Resta, SME Competitiveness Sector Development Consultant, and Maria Kariofilaki, Head of the Marketing Department, participated in the #39 Business Story.
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