with a Caring Touch”
EMERGENCY CARE
Since 2007
Dr. Jennifer Schissler is a board certified veterinary dermatologist, providing advanced care for diseases of the ear and skin. Jennifer is also available 2 days a month to assist pet owners in the Lexington area. Call (502) 244-3036 to schedule an appointment.
The mission of the LVSES dermatology service is to:
- Provide optimal treatment of skin and ear disease
- Improve quality of life for our canine and feline patients
- Promote a team approach to patient care
A team approach includes our clients, the family veterinarian, and when needed, the expertise of specialists in other fields of veterinary medicine. Our clients are vital members of their pet’s treatment team, and we prioritize communication and education of our clients to facilitate the best treatment possible.
Because diseases of the ears and skin can have similar outward appearances, but differ greatly in treatment and prognosis, Dr. Schissler provides a focused but thorough approach to the diagnosis of ear and skin diseases.
Services include:
- Video otoscopy and deep ear flushing with state of the art anesthetic monitoring
- Computed tomography for imaging of the middle ear
- Intradermal tests and hyposensitization serum (allergy shots)
- Skin biopsies, read by a dermatohistopathologist and interpreted by Dr. Schissler
- Cultures for bacterial and fungal organisms
- Cytology to examine cell types and assess for infection
- Skin scrapes to assess for parasitism
We also facilitate elimination diet trials, for diagnosis of cutaneous adverse food reaction (food allergy). The diets may be tailored to the specific needs of the patient with the expertise of our nutritionist, Dr. Susan Lauten.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a veterinary dermatologist?
- What should I know about Dr. Jennifer Schissler?
- Does my pet need to see a dermatologist?
- Scheduling an Appointment
- What to expect
What is a veterinary dermatologist?
A veterinary dermatologist has completed a doctorate in veterinary medicine, has completed a one year general rotating internship at a specialty practice and a residency of 2 years duration or greater. Certification also requires publication of an original research manuscript in a peer-reviewed journal, as well as successful completion of the board examination. There are fewer than 200 board certified veterinary dermatologists in the United States. Veterinary dermatologists are trained to diagnose, manage and treat dermatologic disease in a variety of species. They are also trained to examine and interpret biopsies of animal skin.
What should I know about Dr. Jennifer Schissler?
Dr. Schissler graduated from Colorado State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences summa cum laude in 2005. During college and veterinary school she had a strong interest in infectious disease and immunology. After veterinary school, she completed a one-year rotating internship at Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital in Wheat Ridge, Colorado. In 2006 she was honored to be selected as a resident in dermatology at The Ohio State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital . During her three year residency, she researched aspects of detection of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus from the skin and ears of dogs, and successfully defended her master’s thesis and earned a Master of Science degree in Veterinary Clinical Science. Dr. Schissler became a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Dermatology in 2009. Dr. Schissler has a passion for all aspects of dermatology, but maintains particular interest in management of atopic dermatitis, antimicrobial resistance of Staphylococci, and management of ear disease.
Does my pet need to see a dermatologist?
Your veterinarian is trained to successfully treat and identify many common skin and ear disorders. Veterinary dermatologists act as an extension of your family veterinarian’s care. If you are interested in an appointment, please contact your veterinarian to determine if a specialist appointment is right for you and your pet.
Appointments are by referral from your regular vet and can be made through our front desk at (502) 244-3036.
Dermatologists are detectives! Dr. Schissler will ask very specific and detailed questions about the environment and diet of your pet as well as previous treatments and responses to those treatments. Please bring any medications and medical records you have. We will ask your family veterinarian to fax their records as well.
Dr. Schissler will perform a general physical exam and an examination of the skin. Samples from the skin and ears will be taken. Additional tests may also be necessary. Prior to any test or procedure, estimates can be provided.
Please note that the first appointment will be a minimum of one hour. If this does not coincide well with your schedule, please notify the front desk to see if alternative arrangements may be made.
If you would like an estimate prior to an appointment, please contact our front desk and we will return your call within one business day.
