Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice & In-Home Euthanasia

I grew up in Queens, NY, within walking distance of the World’s Fair Park, Shea Stadium, and Arthur Ashe Stadium, as well as just about anywhere else we needed to go, including school, church, the grocery store, and several parks. My parents were both immigrants and our neighborhood was very diverse, with neighbors from India, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, and China. When we wanted to visit " the city" (i.e., Manhattan), we would walk to the number 7 subway train and ride it in. 

My love for animals, especially cats and dogs, drew me to the veterinary profession. One of my aunts gave me a set of James Herriot books, and I read them multiple times. I was the youngest kid on my block, and while the older kids were at school, I would wander up and down our back alley and make friends with the pets in my neighbors' yards. When the time came to think about a career, I knew I wanted to work with animals and help people, and veterinary medicine seemed a good way to fulfill both desires. 

I went to college in New York City, and then moved to Ames, Iowa for my veterinary education. Moving to such a rural part of the country was quite a culture shock! I received my driver's license in college, but I really learned to drive in Iowa. Iowa winters are long and brutal, with the first snow storm typically at Halloween, and the last one around Easter. 

I have worked in an emergency hospital, a general practice, and a shelter. Each setting had their own unique challenges, but all were fulfilling in their own way. I most enjoy working with two extremes: puppies and kittens, and geriatric pets. It is fun to educate new owners about preventative healthcare and basic behaviors, and start pets and their owners down a successful path together. However, I also have a soft spot in my heart for geriatric pets. 

Many years ago, I experienced the loss of my father from advanced lung cancer. He was in constant pain and laboring to breathe during the last week of his life. He mercifully passed away on the day he was to be transferred to hospice care. This experience influenced my perception of euthanasia the most. I struggled with the decision about when to euthanize each of my three  cats when the time came, and I empathize with pet owners who also find that decision challenging. However, watching my dad suffer, especially as his cancer progressed, made me wish that euthanasia was an option for humans. I think that when a patient with an advanced disease loses their quality of life, euthanasia is a merciful gift, and can bring peace to the patient and their family. 

Outside of veterinary medicine, I love to travel and learn about different cultures and history. I enjoy hiking, and especially visiting the national park with my little dog, Fozzie. One of my life goals is to visit—and hike in—all 50 states; I’m over halfway there! I also love to read, and watch movies and musicals. Before the pandemic I started learning how to swing dance, particularly the" lindy hop"—I love the music!

Pronouns: She/Her