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Dr. Rachel

In-Home Pet Euthanasia in Milwaukee & Surrounding Areas

I was born and raised in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, which is in the greater Milwaukee area, and moved to Hartland during middle school. Other than my time at the University of Minnesota during veterinary school, I have always lived in Wisconsin.

As a young child, I was always attracted to animals. When I was 9, I begged my parents to sign me up for horseback riding lessons after my grandparents took our family on a trail ride. They obliged and the barn quickly became my second home. When I wasn't riding horses, I could be found spending time with the barn cats and dogs. I now have my own horse, and I still hang out at the barn.

I received a bachelor’s degree in animal science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and then went to the University of Minnesota for vet school. Since graduating, I've held several positions in general practice, treating mainly cats and dogs. I enjoy making a difference for people who love and care for pets as much as I do. I love meeting new people and learning about ways they connect with their animals.

We lost my childhood cat to cancer when I was in college. We kept her comfortable with medications for a few short weeks before she declined to the point that we knew it was her time. I remember being scared to go to the vet because I didn't want my last memory to be of her passing on. My mom said everyone at the clinic was so compassionate and caring and reassured her that we were making a kind decision. I’m now more comfortable being with my pets during their final moments, but absolutely understand that whatever feels most comfortable is right for an individual family. I am grateful that I can help families navigate this difficult time and give them peace of mind knowing they are making a kind and compassionate decision.

Outside of work, I spend several days a week riding my horse, an American Saddlebred named Joey, and occasionally competing in small-scale pleasure shows. I also enjoy arts and crafts, particularly sewing, cross stitch, and painting. I recently dabbled in gardening, but I wouldn't consider myself a green thumb just yet!

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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Terri & Dave

San Diego, California

Dr. Brian was so awesome in a most emotional time for us. He made this sacred time of assisting our pup ChewChew over the rainbow bridge a sweet moment. He was very respectful in every aspect of his care and attention. Our baby transitioned so peacefully she probably didn't even notice! I hope they have breakfast ready for her in Heaven! Thanks again Dr. Brian!

Tammy and Greg

Springfield, Pennsylvania

When the health of our beloved Brody, an 8 year-old Newfoundland, declined rapidly, we called Lap of Love. We were supported by kind and compassionate people every step of the way. We are grateful to Alex and Dr. Sharon, our phone contacts, and especially grateful to Dr. Brad. Dr. Brad made an unbearable situation bearable. As soon as he walked into the room, Brody started wagging his tail, something that he hadn't done in days. It was as if he knew immediately that Dr. Brad was his friend. Dr. Brad followed up with us by email the next day, to express his condolences again and to make sure that we were okay. Brody passed in peace, in the comfort of his home, thanks to the staff at Lap of Love. We highly recommend them to any pet owner who is faced with this difficult end-of-life decision. Tammy and Greg

Sharon

E Norriton , Pennsylvania

Dr Andrew arrived & in such a calming manner, took time to introduce himself to myself & Alle..getting to know us both. Alle, always a bit hesitant at first with strangers, certainly within no time at all..us both, feeling we’ve certainly made a right decision. Alle, trusting & certainly ready for her journey..not a goodbye, but til later. Dr. Andrew, thanking you from our hearts, the compassion & love you’ve shared..a smile when I think of my Alle.

Kristin

Sacramento, California

I’m sure most people start out by saying this, but this was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make in my life. I had been dreading this day for a long time, and it had finally come. My little guy had woken up with sheer terror in his eyes and I knew his little body was was done living. I couldn’t keep him alive for my sake, because I loved him so much and couldn’t image a world without him in it. My vet had given me the brochure for lap of love months before so I reluctantly made the call. I spoke with Bridget and she was calm and very loving. She assured me that this was the hardest call I would ever had to make, but that I was doing the right thing. I needed to let my daughter come and say goodbye to him and she was in school and couldn’t be there until 2:30, so we made the appointment for 3-4pm. We had the whole day together. He was so sick. We got to say our goodbyes. My daughter came, and a few others. He was ready. Then Dr. Counts got there. I was ready. I had calm music and a candle burning. It was just us three. That was how I wanted it. She came in and from the time she saw Harley we both knew how sick he was and that he was going to get some relief. She approached him gently and sweetly. He’s deaf, so no sounds bother him, and at this point he was so sick and nauseous I think he just need some relief. She sat and talked with me about his health and what had been going on with him and why I felt his body was shutting down and why we agreed it was time to end his life. She informed me about the sedation first. And then the final dose that would end his life. I agreed it was time. He was suffering, and I didn’t want him to suffer anymore. She administered the sedation and he had instant relief. While he was sedated she made three clay paw prints and got three tufts of his soft fur from the scruff of his neck. 1 for each of my daughters and me. So sweet of her. Then it was time to say goodbye. I put my face to his and listened to his breath as she gave the final shot. I heard him take his final breath. It was heartbreaking. His little spirit left his body. He was gone. Dr. Counts checked for a heart beat, she confirmed that Harley had passed. She then went outside to give me sometime alone with him. She brought in a sweet little basket with a blanket to put his lifeless body in. We placed him in it and then I carried him out to her car. Dr. Counts was kind, professional, calm, loving, informative, and caring. I appreciate the whole team of Lap of Love and highly recommend them if you have to make the hardest decision of your life.

ReNe’e

Mechanicsville, Virginia

She created for us a sacred moment for the passing of Big George. He experienced his inherent joy and love and then died in my lap where he belonged. I’ll always treasure this sweet sad memory.

Michelle

Tualatin, Oregon

Dr. Wendy did a wonderful job of easing my beloved kitty through the transition to her next life. Dr. Wendy provided skilled, kind and gentle care that supported both me and my kitty during the process of helping her leave this life with comfort, peace, and dignity.

Shara

Cranston, Rhode Island

I am so grateful to Lap of Love for providing this service. It allowed our beloved senior Maltese, Oliver Brady, to pass in his familiar surroundings and enabled him to avoid the stress and fear of yet another hospital visit. The experience, although painful, was much easier to handle under Dr. Ana Malone Oliver’s guidance and loving care. I was extremely upset when I first reached out and Rachel handled my call with compassion and reassurance. Dr. Ana showed great care and respect for Oliver in his fragile state and added meaningful touches to his final moments. Nicole provided comprehensive follow up and also showed us kindness during this difficult time. I also appreciated the resources that were made available to me. I continue to share our experience with those that may require a hospice vet in the near future and highly recommend Lap of Love to other pet owners facing the difficult reality of losing their beloved family member.

Cauleen

Los Angeles, California

Our Tybalt was the sweetest, and sassiest little cat I've ever had the pleasure of knowing and we are so grateful to have enjoyed living life with her for the past 12 years. She was so affectionate and so very spunky. It was so hard to face the fact that her life was ending. It became clear that she was fighting to be present out of a love for us but her pain simply became unmanageable and unbearable, I think. I know they say cats aren't like that but they haven't met Tybalt! :) Dr. Tina made Tybalt's transition a deeply meaningful moment for us. She was so kind to Tybalt and to us. She was very direct and yet extremely gentle with Tybalt as well as with our fragile emotions. I wasn't sure we were doing the right thing, but after seeing our beloved cat resting in peace means so much. I don't think I'm being very articulate, and I apologize for that. My heart goes out to anyone who has to go through this process, but you and your companion cat or dog are in good hands with someone like Dr. Tina, I can promise that.

Drew

Millersville, Maryland

I cannot fully express how grateful our family is for the warmth and caring provided by Dr. Sarah to Clifford and our entire family. Clifford was loved not only by everyone in our family, but by the entire neighborhood. He always had a big smile and greeted everyone we met as if meeting another "best friend." Everyone knew Clifford. I was just the guy that walked with him. It was difficult contemplating losing him, let alone be able to talk about it. But Dr. Sarah showed genuine love and compassion. She explained everything that was going to happen and gave everyone time to process it and say our final goodbyes. I will always remember Clifford licking Dr. Sara's arm as she sat next to him, as if he knew what was going on and agreed it was time. I cannot imagine saying goodbye any other way. We will always be grateful to Dr. Sarah and Lap of Love for helping us through this difficult time. Drew Greenspan

Kristine

VERSAILLES, Kentucky

Miss Ellie was my sweetheart and my first adoptee when I moved to Kentucky. I met her at the Woodford Humane Society Canine Olympics. She wore an "Adopt me" cape - and I did, because I was mourning the loss of one of the four dogs I moved with me. Ellie had such a beautiful smile. She lived to a ripe age - arthritis was the major issue, but then her liver enzymes went sky high and her blood pressure went up. My vet made some adjustments but Ellie started eating less and less. I knew I had to make that decision soon, but I couldn't bear taking her to the veterinary clinic during the pandemic. A friend recommended Dr. Kendra, so I called on the day Ellie quit eating. I've buried eight wonderful rescues. Ellie was my ninth fur baby. I miss her terribly, but Dr. Kendra made our parting so special. Ellie was surrounded by her three "sibling" rescues as I held her in my arms. Dr. Kendra was so caring during and after (she gave me a wonderful booklet, made a paw print impression, and emailed me later to see how I was doing). Lap of Love is the only way I'll let my fur babies move on. I am so grateful for Dr. Kendra.

Terri & Dave

San Diego, California

Dr. Brian was so awesome in a most emotional time for us. He made this sacred time of assisting our pup ChewChew over the rainbow bridge a sweet moment. He was very respectful in every aspect of his care and attention. Our baby transitioned so peacefully she probably didn't even notice! I hope they have breakfast ready for her in Heaven! Thanks again Dr. Brian!

Tammy and Greg

Springfield, Pennsylvania

When the health of our beloved Brody, an 8 year-old Newfoundland, declined rapidly, we called Lap of Love. We were supported by kind and compassionate people every step of the way. We are grateful to Alex and Dr. Sharon, our phone contacts, and especially grateful to Dr. Brad. Dr. Brad made an unbearable situation bearable. As soon as he walked into the room, Brody started wagging his tail, something that he hadn't done in days. It was as if he knew immediately that Dr. Brad was his friend. Dr. Brad followed up with us by email the next day, to express his condolences again and to make sure that we were okay. Brody passed in peace, in the comfort of his home, thanks to the staff at Lap of Love. We highly recommend them to any pet owner who is faced with this difficult end-of-life decision. Tammy and Greg

Sharon

E Norriton , Pennsylvania

Dr Andrew arrived & in such a calming manner, took time to introduce himself to myself & Alle..getting to know us both. Alle, always a bit hesitant at first with strangers, certainly within no time at all..us both, feeling we’ve certainly made a right decision. Alle, trusting & certainly ready for her journey..not a goodbye, but til later. Dr. Andrew, thanking you from our hearts, the compassion & love you’ve shared..a smile when I think of my Alle.

Kristin

Sacramento, California

I’m sure most people start out by saying this, but this was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make in my life. I had been dreading this day for a long time, and it had finally come. My little guy had woken up with sheer terror in his eyes and I knew his little body was was done living. I couldn’t keep him alive for my sake, because I loved him so much and couldn’t image a world without him in it. My vet had given me the brochure for lap of love months before so I reluctantly made the call. I spoke with Bridget and she was calm and very loving. She assured me that this was the hardest call I would ever had to make, but that I was doing the right thing. I needed to let my daughter come and say goodbye to him and she was in school and couldn’t be there until 2:30, so we made the appointment for 3-4pm. We had the whole day together. He was so sick. We got to say our goodbyes. My daughter came, and a few others. He was ready. Then Dr. Counts got there. I was ready. I had calm music and a candle burning. It was just us three. That was how I wanted it. She came in and from the time she saw Harley we both knew how sick he was and that he was going to get some relief. She approached him gently and sweetly. He’s deaf, so no sounds bother him, and at this point he was so sick and nauseous I think he just need some relief. She sat and talked with me about his health and what had been going on with him and why I felt his body was shutting down and why we agreed it was time to end his life. She informed me about the sedation first. And then the final dose that would end his life. I agreed it was time. He was suffering, and I didn’t want him to suffer anymore. She administered the sedation and he had instant relief. While he was sedated she made three clay paw prints and got three tufts of his soft fur from the scruff of his neck. 1 for each of my daughters and me. So sweet of her. Then it was time to say goodbye. I put my face to his and listened to his breath as she gave the final shot. I heard him take his final breath. It was heartbreaking. His little spirit left his body. He was gone. Dr. Counts checked for a heart beat, she confirmed that Harley had passed. She then went outside to give me sometime alone with him. She brought in a sweet little basket with a blanket to put his lifeless body in. We placed him in it and then I carried him out to her car. Dr. Counts was kind, professional, calm, loving, informative, and caring. I appreciate the whole team of Lap of Love and highly recommend them if you have to make the hardest decision of your life.

Shara

Cranston, Rhode Island

I am so grateful to Lap of Love for providing this service. It allowed our beloved senior Maltese, Oliver Brady, to pass in his familiar surroundings and enabled him to avoid the stress and fear of yet another hospital visit. The experience, although painful, was much easier to handle under Dr. Ana Malone Oliver’s guidance and loving care. I was extremely upset when I first reached out and Rachel handled my call with compassion and reassurance. Dr. Ana showed great care and respect for Oliver in his fragile state and added meaningful touches to his final moments. Nicole provided comprehensive follow up and also showed us kindness during this difficult time. I also appreciated the resources that were made available to me. I continue to share our experience with those that may require a hospice vet in the near future and highly recommend Lap of Love to other pet owners facing the difficult reality of losing their beloved family member.

Cauleen

Los Angeles, California

Our Tybalt was the sweetest, and sassiest little cat I've ever had the pleasure of knowing and we are so grateful to have enjoyed living life with her for the past 12 years. She was so affectionate and so very spunky. It was so hard to face the fact that her life was ending. It became clear that she was fighting to be present out of a love for us but her pain simply became unmanageable and unbearable, I think. I know they say cats aren't like that but they haven't met Tybalt! :) Dr. Tina made Tybalt's transition a deeply meaningful moment for us. She was so kind to Tybalt and to us. She was very direct and yet extremely gentle with Tybalt as well as with our fragile emotions. I wasn't sure we were doing the right thing, but after seeing our beloved cat resting in peace means so much. I don't think I'm being very articulate, and I apologize for that. My heart goes out to anyone who has to go through this process, but you and your companion cat or dog are in good hands with someone like Dr. Tina, I can promise that.

Drew

Millersville, Maryland

I cannot fully express how grateful our family is for the warmth and caring provided by Dr. Sarah to Clifford and our entire family. Clifford was loved not only by everyone in our family, but by the entire neighborhood. He always had a big smile and greeted everyone we met as if meeting another "best friend." Everyone knew Clifford. I was just the guy that walked with him. It was difficult contemplating losing him, let alone be able to talk about it. But Dr. Sarah showed genuine love and compassion. She explained everything that was going to happen and gave everyone time to process it and say our final goodbyes. I will always remember Clifford licking Dr. Sara's arm as she sat next to him, as if he knew what was going on and agreed it was time. I cannot imagine saying goodbye any other way. We will always be grateful to Dr. Sarah and Lap of Love for helping us through this difficult time. Drew Greenspan

Kristine

VERSAILLES, Kentucky

Miss Ellie was my sweetheart and my first adoptee when I moved to Kentucky. I met her at the Woodford Humane Society Canine Olympics. She wore an "Adopt me" cape - and I did, because I was mourning the loss of one of the four dogs I moved with me. Ellie had such a beautiful smile. She lived to a ripe age - arthritis was the major issue, but then her liver enzymes went sky high and her blood pressure went up. My vet made some adjustments but Ellie started eating less and less. I knew I had to make that decision soon, but I couldn't bear taking her to the veterinary clinic during the pandemic. A friend recommended Dr. Kendra, so I called on the day Ellie quit eating. I've buried eight wonderful rescues. Ellie was my ninth fur baby. I miss her terribly, but Dr. Kendra made our parting so special. Ellie was surrounded by her three "sibling" rescues as I held her in my arms. Dr. Kendra was so caring during and after (she gave me a wonderful booklet, made a paw print impression, and emailed me later to see how I was doing). Lap of Love is the only way I'll let my fur babies move on. I am so grateful for Dr. Kendra.

Terri & Dave

San Diego, California

Dr. Brian was so awesome in a most emotional time for us. He made this sacred time of assisting our pup ChewChew over the rainbow bridge a sweet moment. He was very respectful in every aspect of his care and attention. Our baby transitioned so peacefully she probably didn't even notice! I hope they have breakfast ready for her in Heaven! Thanks again Dr. Brian!

Tammy and Greg

Springfield, Pennsylvania

When the health of our beloved Brody, an 8 year-old Newfoundland, declined rapidly, we called Lap of Love. We were supported by kind and compassionate people every step of the way. We are grateful to Alex and Dr. Sharon, our phone contacts, and especially grateful to Dr. Brad. Dr. Brad made an unbearable situation bearable. As soon as he walked into the room, Brody started wagging his tail, something that he hadn't done in days. It was as if he knew immediately that Dr. Brad was his friend. Dr. Brad followed up with us by email the next day, to express his condolences again and to make sure that we were okay. Brody passed in peace, in the comfort of his home, thanks to the staff at Lap of Love. We highly recommend them to any pet owner who is faced with this difficult end-of-life decision. Tammy and Greg

Sharon

E Norriton , Pennsylvania

Dr Andrew arrived & in such a calming manner, took time to introduce himself to myself & Alle..getting to know us both. Alle, always a bit hesitant at first with strangers, certainly within no time at all..us both, feeling we’ve certainly made a right decision. Alle, trusting & certainly ready for her journey..not a goodbye, but til later. Dr. Andrew, thanking you from our hearts, the compassion & love you’ve shared..a smile when I think of my Alle.

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