Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice & In-Home Euthanasia

I was born and raised in Salt Lake City Utah, surrounded by the Wasatch Mountains, alpine lakes and streams, and canyons lined with hiking trails. I grew up with German pointers and my black  Great Dane—and best friend—Midnight. As a child, I was always in search of animals to save and often brought home random wildlife. From baby birds and turtles to hungry deer and malnourished kittens, I cared for them all and knew I would continue to heal animals throughout my life. Following my passion, I volunteered as a zoo docent until I graduated high school and spent several years working as a veterinary technician. 

I began my undergraduate studies at the University of Utah and Salt Lake Community College and finished at East Central University in Oklahoma. I attended the Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine, where I received my veterinary degree. For 10 years, I worked as a practicing clinician and surgeon for small and exotic pets, honing my skills and developing a passion for diseases and surgeries involving the eyes and soft tissues. I enjoy being a voice for animals and helping owners keep their pets healthy and happy. 

I have lost many pets during my life, starting with my childhood companion Midnight when I was 8 years old. My father cried as he carried her to the truck and my brother and I sat in the truck bed with her on the way to the vet. Even at that young age, I knew there had to be a better way to honor a pet in their last moments. I am honored to use my role at Lap of Love to ensure a pet’s last moments are spent at home, in their own beds, surrounded by familiar smells and faces. This kind of end-of-life process not only allows pets to pass with dignity but also provides families with an intimate goodbye and a sense of peace. 

When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time outdoors, hiking in canyons, and around mountain lakes and streams. I have many hunters and fishermen in my family and frequently accompany them on their adventures to observe wildlife. I have always had pugs and a variety of cats, and I spend much of my free time trying (unsuccessfully) to train them and (successfully) spoiling them.