Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice & In-Home Euthanasia

I grew up on a lake in the small town of Denver, North Carolina. Our summers were filled with boating, skiing, and swimming, and we always had dogs and cats—we even had a swimming cat named Snowball! I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian from a young age. I would make pretend casts out of damp paper towels and wrap up our cat's leg or tail. Princess didn't enjoy it much, but she always let me doctor her. I enjoyed helping my dad bring our family pets to the veterinarian, and I started working in the kennel of our family vet when I was 15. I worked there every summer until I went to veterinary school myself.

I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Notre Dame in Indiana. I played baritone in the Notre Dame band, and that's how I met my husband, who played trombone. After graduating, I attended Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in St Kitts, which was an amazing experience. I completed my clinical year at Ohio State University—a big transition from the Caribbean beaches I was used to—before beginning my career as a small animal general practitioner. 

I enjoy many aspects of veterinary medicine, especially client education, pain management, and ultrasound. I became a vet to speak for those who have no voice—animals cannot advocate for themselves, so it's up to us to do it for them. I also love seeing how much families love their pets. 

When my dog Payton began having breathing trouble we took him to a specialist that unfortunately found an inoperable lung tumor. He was struggling and we made the decision to let him go that evening, at home. It was so special to know he was on his favorite bed and was surrounded by family that loved him. I feel honored to be able to provide that same comfort to loving pet parents.

When I’m not working, I enjoy reading fantasy and science fiction books—the more dragons or magic, the better. I also enjoy snow and water skiing with my family, hiking, cooking, and baking—we are building a new house and I'm excited about my new kitchen and double ovens!