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Dr. Courtney

Ann Arbor - Brighton - Plymouth - Howell & Surrounding Areas

I was born and raised in Pinckney, Michigan. I was fortunate to grow up on a horse farm, which sparked and nurtured my love for animals. It was only natural that the husbandry that went into caring for our farm animals evolved into a desire to be a veterinarian.

I received both my Bachelor of Animal Science and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees from Michigan State University. After graduating, my husband and I moved back to Pinckney to be close to the family farm. I have worked as a small animal veterinarian in general private practice since graduating. I enjoy working up complex internal medicine cases, but I feel the most appreciated when performing euthanasia. The gratitude I receive from thankful families during such a heartbreaking time has actually been the most rewarding part of my job. Death is an inevitable part of life and I believe that all pets deserve to pass peacefully and with dignity.

When I graduated from vet school, I rewarded myself by adopting my very own puppy. I had many family pets growing up, but Emma was the first pet I was solely responsible for. Sadly, I diagnosed her with cancer on her 12th birthday. My husband and I had a difficult discussion regarding her quality of life and what markers we would use to determine when the appropriate time for euthanasia would be. The day came a lot sooner than we expected. Emma lay between my husband and me, and we both hugged her tightly and shed tears while I administered the euthanasia solution. As painful as it was, I’m extremely proud of the way we let her go. I consider it a privilege to help families provide the gentle, peaceful goodbye they seek for their faithful companion as I did with Emma.

When I’m not working, you can often find me helping out at the family farm and spending time with my five horses, Hope, Hombre, Tailor, Everett, and Lucy. I am passionate about riding and I compete in the sport of dressage. I also enjoy traveling, camping, and hiking with my husband and our two boxers, Izzy and Olive. We also have a rescue cat named Smudge.

Our services

We’re here to support you when you need it

In-Home Euthanasia

At Lap of Love, we take the utmost pride in helping your pet experience a peaceful passing in the comfort and tranquility of their home.

Veterinary Hospice

Family-focused, in-home hospice care ensures your dog or cat is comfortable and happy during their final days.

Aftercare

From cremation to personal keepsakes, our aftercare services allow you to forever memorialize your beloved dog or cat.

Telehospice

Personal phone/video calls, during which a Lap of Love team member will help you gain clarity around what's best for your ailing or aging pet.

Pet Loss Support

Join our free, virtual Pet Loss Support Groups. Discussions are focused on healthy coping skills, grief reactions, and honoring the lives of your furry family member.

In-Home Euthanasia

At Lap of Love, we take the utmost pride in helping your pet experience a peaceful passing in the comfort and tranquility of their home.

Veterinary Hospice

Family-focused, in-home hospice care ensures your dog or cat is comfortable and happy during their final days.

Aftercare

From cremation to personal keepsakes, our aftercare services allow you to forever memorialize your beloved dog or cat.

Telehospice

Personal phone/video calls, during which a Lap of Love team member will help you gain clarity around what's best for your ailing or aging pet.

Pet Loss Support

Join our free, virtual Pet Loss Support Groups. Discussions are focused on healthy coping skills, grief reactions, and honoring the lives of your furry family member.

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Kristen

Las Vegas, Nevada

We are so very grateful. We had never heard of Lap of Love, until Tuffy, our 14-year-old beloved Shih Tzu, became incurably ill and was nearing her end stage and a friend (a longtime pet sitter in town) recommended we go through them. We knew we wanted to say goodbye to Tuffy in the comfort of her own home where she could be in her own bed, surrounded by those who loved her, and not in a waiting room and then a clinical exam room. We were relieved to know that Lap of Love provided full services and seemed to emphasize compassion. But when the time came to make the call, we were terrified, ill at the thought of scheduling such a final appointment and did so with tremendous dread. Fortunately, a woman named Angie answered the phone and immediately put us at ease. She was patient, respectful, kind, clearly loved pets and understood exactly what we were going through. Without her, it would have been a totally different experience. We couldn't thank her enough. The call was followed up with an email that offered explained how to prepare and what to expect. They encouraged us to enjoy our last day with her. So we did. We held a small love-filled gathering with all her moms and her brother Karl and we cried, told stories, played jazz and showered her with love. When it was time for Dr. Toby to arrive, we were panicked and grief-stricken, but the second he walked into the house, said hello, greeted Karl and joined us on the living room floor with Tuffy, we knew we were in good hands. He was so friendly and kind and he answered our questions about how dogs experience grief and life. He saw for himself that Tuffy was ready to cross over to meet her late-brother chance on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge. With an enamored little Karl at his side, Dr. Toby guided us through the step-by-step process and seemed more like an old friend. He sat with us while we played a recording of John Denver's "Sunshine on My Shoulders," which seemed the most fitting song for Tuffy. He sat with us as we grieved and when Tuffy was gone, he retrieved a small basket from his car and gently lifted Tuffy, her blanket, her toys, letters from us and locks of hair and placed her into the basket while we continued to pet her and say goodbye. When we were ready, he carried her out to the car and buckled her in, then let us say goodbye again before they drove off together. Tuffy was in good hands. Rather than feeling a stark emptiness when we walked back into the house, we felt Tuffy everywhere and were overwhelmed by the beauty of such an otherwise sad and painful experience, so very grateful for the years of friendship she gave us, and that we were able to send her out with so much respect, love and comfort. The days ahead would undoubtedly seem empty without our precious companion, but now we have this amazing memory that we will cherish forever and that helps fill that void. We are so grateful to Lap of Love, to Dr. Toby and to Angie. They helped us, took care of us and shared in the experience of our loss. We can not thank them enough and will never forget them. Sincerely, Kristen, Kelly, Rain and Karl.

Pelion, South Carolina

I hope that the Clinic Veterinarians will accept Lap of Love, as the Oncologist did in the late 1990's as a very important part of Medical Treatment. Living and Dying is Life. I am a retired RN, who, actually studied Nursing because of the loss of my Mother and a 34 yr. old brother due to Cancer; it was the most meaningful job I had. I cannot express the appreciation and respect that I have for Dr. Rodriguez and Lap of Love! Our love for all creatures, great and small, is what makes us special. I am very grateful for Dr. Rodriguez's time spent with me during a difficult decision; I'll shall always commend her and be thankful for her devotion and dedication. Thank You, Dr. Rodriguez! I have finally gotten through the stages, and was able to write this. Tears are swelling, but I know that's ok because it's loving. I have canines, felines, and equines, and just want to throw out expansion to equines, if it's not already included. Lap of Love is the best new Veterinarian Practice and I hope everyone will embrace it. Thanks to all DVM's who embrace and support.

Raleigh, North Carolina

This was our first experience with Lap of Love, and Dr. Kristen was as sweet as can be! We were also impressed with her knowledge about the condition our dog Luna was in, even though she had just met her. In her examination we learned that Luna may have had some underlying neurological problems that meant she needed a little more anesthetic than usual. I would trust Dr. Kristen with the care of any of my dogs, but I also highly recommend her for families with dogs that have certain medical issues that could complicate the process. Also, Luna's urn was stunning and we love the intricate carving design! Thank you also to all the staff at Lap of Love who were very patient and kind as we discussed our decision on the phone and through Tele-Hospice. The Tele-hospice was exactly what we needed to help our family agree on a decision and I recommend them for any case where there is uncertainty in whether or not it is the "right time".

Helga

Cohutta , Georgia

This is the first time we’ve done this at home. I am so thankful for Lap of Love and Dr. Rachel. Our boy got to pass peacefully away on the couch with us and our other dog around him. Deciding to let your pet go is heartbreaking. Allowing it to happen in your pet’s home with people who love him and a compassionate and caring vet leading the way makes it more tolerable. We also appreciated the aftercare offered which includes transport for cremation. The other thing we appreciated was when he had passed, Dr. Rachel covered him with a blanket but only up to his neck. He looked so peaceful. Will use this service again for any future pets if they need it.

Mary

Saratoga Springs, New York

Thank you Dr Melanie Santspree for all you did to help both Monkey, my sweet, sweet cat, and myself through this very painful time. Dr Melanie arrived at our home (after much support from the wonderful hospice professionals you will ever encounter ! They each helped me through this process of deciding if and when to make an impossible decision! ) Dr Melanie knew exactly what I needed in support and in knowledge to help me understand my decision. She explained exactly how she would assist sweet Monkey and he was truly taken care of in the most loving way I can imagine. His passing was made easier with Dr Melanie’s incredible care! It’s wonderful when you encounter someone who knows their work so well and takes care of you so well! . I will never forget how much she helped us both, as well as my whole family!

Ava

Boca Raton, Florida

The hardest thing I had to do was euthanize my beloved almost 14 year old Doberman Java. The website information and caring staff Nicky and Molly made me feel comforted and ready. Dr. Blaine was an angel sent to us in our time of need. His compassion and easy way helped give us the strength and information to help our baby Java transition to a better place. My two daughters, other dog Cuddles and best friend all agreed that this was a perfect choice and Java was in good hands. Every detail was thought out and handled with compassion, love and so much love. Thank you, The Clarkes

Gus

Cream Ridge, New Jersey

I just wanted to say that during such a horrible time Lap of Love made the process a lot easier to deal with from the initial phone call to the end. Dr Shannon Cabell arrived earlier than scheduled, was extremely sympathetic, explained the entire process and allowed us as much time as we wanted to spend with Diesel before he left us. Having Diesel for 11 years he was part of our family and Lap of Love and Shannon Cabell made the entire process easier to accept!

Katie

Oakmont, Pennsylvania

Though we are heartbroken to have lost our beloved Mini, we our glad she was able to go at home with us by her side. Dr. Michelle thoroughly explained the process to us ahead of time and remained a calming force during our time together. We are thankful for the ease of service and comforting words Lap of Love and Dr. Michelle have provided throughout the experience.

Kristen

Las Vegas, Nevada

We are so very grateful. We had never heard of Lap of Love, until Tuffy, our 14-year-old beloved Shih Tzu, became incurably ill and was nearing her end stage and a friend (a longtime pet sitter in town) recommended we go through them. We knew we wanted to say goodbye to Tuffy in the comfort of her own home where she could be in her own bed, surrounded by those who loved her, and not in a waiting room and then a clinical exam room. We were relieved to know that Lap of Love provided full services and seemed to emphasize compassion. But when the time came to make the call, we were terrified, ill at the thought of scheduling such a final appointment and did so with tremendous dread. Fortunately, a woman named Angie answered the phone and immediately put us at ease. She was patient, respectful, kind, clearly loved pets and understood exactly what we were going through. Without her, it would have been a totally different experience. We couldn't thank her enough. The call was followed up with an email that offered explained how to prepare and what to expect. They encouraged us to enjoy our last day with her. So we did. We held a small love-filled gathering with all her moms and her brother Karl and we cried, told stories, played jazz and showered her with love. When it was time for Dr. Toby to arrive, we were panicked and grief-stricken, but the second he walked into the house, said hello, greeted Karl and joined us on the living room floor with Tuffy, we knew we were in good hands. He was so friendly and kind and he answered our questions about how dogs experience grief and life. He saw for himself that Tuffy was ready to cross over to meet her late-brother chance on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge. With an enamored little Karl at his side, Dr. Toby guided us through the step-by-step process and seemed more like an old friend. He sat with us while we played a recording of John Denver's "Sunshine on My Shoulders," which seemed the most fitting song for Tuffy. He sat with us as we grieved and when Tuffy was gone, he retrieved a small basket from his car and gently lifted Tuffy, her blanket, her toys, letters from us and locks of hair and placed her into the basket while we continued to pet her and say goodbye. When we were ready, he carried her out to the car and buckled her in, then let us say goodbye again before they drove off together. Tuffy was in good hands. Rather than feeling a stark emptiness when we walked back into the house, we felt Tuffy everywhere and were overwhelmed by the beauty of such an otherwise sad and painful experience, so very grateful for the years of friendship she gave us, and that we were able to send her out with so much respect, love and comfort. The days ahead would undoubtedly seem empty without our precious companion, but now we have this amazing memory that we will cherish forever and that helps fill that void. We are so grateful to Lap of Love, to Dr. Toby and to Angie. They helped us, took care of us and shared in the experience of our loss. We can not thank them enough and will never forget them. Sincerely, Kristen, Kelly, Rain and Karl.

Pelion, South Carolina

I hope that the Clinic Veterinarians will accept Lap of Love, as the Oncologist did in the late 1990's as a very important part of Medical Treatment. Living and Dying is Life. I am a retired RN, who, actually studied Nursing because of the loss of my Mother and a 34 yr. old brother due to Cancer; it was the most meaningful job I had. I cannot express the appreciation and respect that I have for Dr. Rodriguez and Lap of Love! Our love for all creatures, great and small, is what makes us special. I am very grateful for Dr. Rodriguez's time spent with me during a difficult decision; I'll shall always commend her and be thankful for her devotion and dedication. Thank You, Dr. Rodriguez! I have finally gotten through the stages, and was able to write this. Tears are swelling, but I know that's ok because it's loving. I have canines, felines, and equines, and just want to throw out expansion to equines, if it's not already included. Lap of Love is the best new Veterinarian Practice and I hope everyone will embrace it. Thanks to all DVM's who embrace and support.

Raleigh, North Carolina

This was our first experience with Lap of Love, and Dr. Kristen was as sweet as can be! We were also impressed with her knowledge about the condition our dog Luna was in, even though she had just met her. In her examination we learned that Luna may have had some underlying neurological problems that meant she needed a little more anesthetic than usual. I would trust Dr. Kristen with the care of any of my dogs, but I also highly recommend her for families with dogs that have certain medical issues that could complicate the process. Also, Luna's urn was stunning and we love the intricate carving design! Thank you also to all the staff at Lap of Love who were very patient and kind as we discussed our decision on the phone and through Tele-Hospice. The Tele-hospice was exactly what we needed to help our family agree on a decision and I recommend them for any case where there is uncertainty in whether or not it is the "right time".

Helga

Cohutta , Georgia

This is the first time we’ve done this at home. I am so thankful for Lap of Love and Dr. Rachel. Our boy got to pass peacefully away on the couch with us and our other dog around him. Deciding to let your pet go is heartbreaking. Allowing it to happen in your pet’s home with people who love him and a compassionate and caring vet leading the way makes it more tolerable. We also appreciated the aftercare offered which includes transport for cremation. The other thing we appreciated was when he had passed, Dr. Rachel covered him with a blanket but only up to his neck. He looked so peaceful. Will use this service again for any future pets if they need it.

Mary

Saratoga Springs, New York

Thank you Dr Melanie Santspree for all you did to help both Monkey, my sweet, sweet cat, and myself through this very painful time. Dr Melanie arrived at our home (after much support from the wonderful hospice professionals you will ever encounter ! They each helped me through this process of deciding if and when to make an impossible decision! ) Dr Melanie knew exactly what I needed in support and in knowledge to help me understand my decision. She explained exactly how she would assist sweet Monkey and he was truly taken care of in the most loving way I can imagine. His passing was made easier with Dr Melanie’s incredible care! It’s wonderful when you encounter someone who knows their work so well and takes care of you so well! . I will never forget how much she helped us both, as well as my whole family!

Ava

Boca Raton, Florida

The hardest thing I had to do was euthanize my beloved almost 14 year old Doberman Java. The website information and caring staff Nicky and Molly made me feel comforted and ready. Dr. Blaine was an angel sent to us in our time of need. His compassion and easy way helped give us the strength and information to help our baby Java transition to a better place. My two daughters, other dog Cuddles and best friend all agreed that this was a perfect choice and Java was in good hands. Every detail was thought out and handled with compassion, love and so much love. Thank you, The Clarkes

Gus

Cream Ridge, New Jersey

I just wanted to say that during such a horrible time Lap of Love made the process a lot easier to deal with from the initial phone call to the end. Dr Shannon Cabell arrived earlier than scheduled, was extremely sympathetic, explained the entire process and allowed us as much time as we wanted to spend with Diesel before he left us. Having Diesel for 11 years he was part of our family and Lap of Love and Shannon Cabell made the entire process easier to accept!

Katie

Oakmont, Pennsylvania

Though we are heartbroken to have lost our beloved Mini, we our glad she was able to go at home with us by her side. Dr. Michelle thoroughly explained the process to us ahead of time and remained a calming force during our time together. We are thankful for the ease of service and comforting words Lap of Love and Dr. Michelle have provided throughout the experience.

Kristen

Las Vegas, Nevada

We are so very grateful. We had never heard of Lap of Love, until Tuffy, our 14-year-old beloved Shih Tzu, became incurably ill and was nearing her end stage and a friend (a longtime pet sitter in town) recommended we go through them. We knew we wanted to say goodbye to Tuffy in the comfort of her own home where she could be in her own bed, surrounded by those who loved her, and not in a waiting room and then a clinical exam room. We were relieved to know that Lap of Love provided full services and seemed to emphasize compassion. But when the time came to make the call, we were terrified, ill at the thought of scheduling such a final appointment and did so with tremendous dread. Fortunately, a woman named Angie answered the phone and immediately put us at ease. She was patient, respectful, kind, clearly loved pets and understood exactly what we were going through. Without her, it would have been a totally different experience. We couldn't thank her enough. The call was followed up with an email that offered explained how to prepare and what to expect. They encouraged us to enjoy our last day with her. So we did. We held a small love-filled gathering with all her moms and her brother Karl and we cried, told stories, played jazz and showered her with love. When it was time for Dr. Toby to arrive, we were panicked and grief-stricken, but the second he walked into the house, said hello, greeted Karl and joined us on the living room floor with Tuffy, we knew we were in good hands. He was so friendly and kind and he answered our questions about how dogs experience grief and life. He saw for himself that Tuffy was ready to cross over to meet her late-brother chance on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge. With an enamored little Karl at his side, Dr. Toby guided us through the step-by-step process and seemed more like an old friend. He sat with us while we played a recording of John Denver's "Sunshine on My Shoulders," which seemed the most fitting song for Tuffy. He sat with us as we grieved and when Tuffy was gone, he retrieved a small basket from his car and gently lifted Tuffy, her blanket, her toys, letters from us and locks of hair and placed her into the basket while we continued to pet her and say goodbye. When we were ready, he carried her out to the car and buckled her in, then let us say goodbye again before they drove off together. Tuffy was in good hands. Rather than feeling a stark emptiness when we walked back into the house, we felt Tuffy everywhere and were overwhelmed by the beauty of such an otherwise sad and painful experience, so very grateful for the years of friendship she gave us, and that we were able to send her out with so much respect, love and comfort. The days ahead would undoubtedly seem empty without our precious companion, but now we have this amazing memory that we will cherish forever and that helps fill that void. We are so grateful to Lap of Love, to Dr. Toby and to Angie. They helped us, took care of us and shared in the experience of our loss. We can not thank them enough and will never forget them. Sincerely, Kristen, Kelly, Rain and Karl.

Helpful resources

Informational resources to help you navigate your pet’s quality of life

Explore all of our resources

When to put a dog down — Axel, Paterson, NJ
How Will I Know It's Time

Home pet euthanasia — Roger, Dumont, NJ
Blog

Cat euthanasia — Bodhi, Yorba Linda, CA
Common Geriatric Pet Symptoms

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