Veterinary Referrals

Referral Doctors

Gulf Coast Veterinary Cardiology

Dr. Lauren Schlater, owner and founder of Gulf Coast Veterinary Cardiology was born into a family of animal lovers, and she has never been without furry family members. Her passion for animals is matched by her love of learning, and this has allowed her to achieve her dream of becoming a board-certified veterinary cardiologist.

Dr. Schlater graduated from the University of Florida with a bachelor's degree in microbiology, after which she attended the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine. She then completed a one-year rotating internship at the VCA West Los Angeles Animal Hospital, followed by a three-year veterinary cardiology residency program at Colorado State University. Dr. Schlater then practiced for two years at the VCA Veterinary Specialty Center of Seattle before she and her husband returned to her home state of Florida to be closer to family.

Dr. Schlater discovered her passion for cardiology after she adopted her pit bull mix, Lily Blue, while she was in vet school. Lily was rescued from the side of the road when she was a puppy, and it was soon discovered that she had a serious heart defect.S he underwent two cardiac procedures before she was a year old and lived over 10 years as a healthy dog. While in her residency, Dr. Schlater met her wonderful husband Eli after he adopted a puppy who had the same type of heart defect as Lily. That puppy eventually became their 90-pound "lap" dog, Leo.

Dr. Schlater and Eli founded GCVC in 2018 to provide specialized cardiac care for the pets of the Gulf Coast. Eli officially joined the team in 2019 as practice manager and veterinary assistant. In their off time they enjoy spending time with their two wonderful boys and two dogs while exploring all that the beautiful Gulf Coast has to offer.