Viewing Lap of Love VetsDr. Virginia
I was born and raised in Tampa, Florida, and while I have spent several years living in other parts of the country, I am excited to call Tampa my home once again. Like most veterinarians, I wanted to be a veterinarian as soon as I knew what the word meant! However, coming from a family with a bunch of pet allergies, I eventually found myself as a lawyer instead, practicing commercial real estate law in New York City. Something was always missing for me though, and when I got my first dog, a puggle named Neo, my love and passion for veterinary medicine was reignited and could no longer be denied. Within the year, I stopped practicing law and had gone back to school to work on a post-baccalaureate degree so that I could apply to vet school.
After spending time in the chilly Northeast, I set my sights on attending the University of California at Davis for veterinary school and earned my doctorate in 2016. I spent the first part of my veterinary career in general practice in the San Francisco area, where I enjoyed helping people and their pets in all facets of their lives, from birth to old age. After the birth of my daughter, I decided it was time to head back to Tampa to be closer to family. That is where I ultimately found my calling in hospice and end-of-life care.
Despite silently telling myself that my heart dog, Neo, was immortal, I too had to face the truth that our pets’ lives are too short. Neo was a food-motivated dog - you could set a clock by his stomach - but the only place he would refuse snacks was in a veterinary hospital. I didn’t want him to be scared and stressed during our final moments together, so I contacted Lap of Love. We were able to say goodbye outside in the sunshine where his favorite pastime (besides eating) was sunbathing. I believe everyone should be able to say goodbye to their beloved pet the same way I was able to say goodbye to Neo. While still heart-wrenching, it was also peaceful, and I know that he passed feeling loved, secure and safe in his favorite spot at home.
Letting go of a beloved pet is one of the most difficult things we have to do in life. It is my honor to be able to help others while they navigate this journey and to help their faithful pet have a peaceful transition over the Rainbow Bridge.
Outside of work, I spend most of my time trying to keep up with my fun-loving and active daughter! We have welcomed a new goof into our household, a rescue dog named Pebbles, who keeps us company on our adventures and always entertained.
