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Dr. Jen

In-Home Pet Euthanasia in Boise & Surrounding Neighborhoods

I was born in North Idaho with an inherent love for all creatures great and small. I grew up with cats, dogs, horses, and a few small rodents, including rats. Although I love small rodents because they are cute, affectionate, and smart, horses and companion animals are my biggest passion.

I went to college at the University of Idaho, where I majored in biology and Spanish. During my undergraduate years, I studied abroad in Spain and did two internships at Disney World. I decided on a career in veterinary medicine during my later college years after discovering the diversity of opportunities in the field.

I went to veterinary school at the University of Illinois, and during my time there, I joined the U.S. Army. After graduating, I served at five duty sites in 10 years, including Fort Carson, Colorado, Fort Stewart, Georgia, Camp Arifjan in Kuwait, Uniformed Services University in Bethesda, Maryland, and Naval Medical Center in San Diego, California. I’m proud and thankful for my time in the Army, which gave me a vast range of experiences that most new veterinarians don’t get.

Early in my Army career, I attended a veterinary conference where I heard a lecture given by Lap of Love’s co-founder, Dr. Mary Gardner. Her story and the company’s mission inspired me, and I became interested in working for Lap of Love someday. Providing in-home hospice care and euthanasia for animals in a safe and comforting environment is so special. As an official part of the Lap of Love family, I take pride in helping families and pets experience the most peaceful, honorable passing they can.

I experienced in-home euthanasia with my retired military working dog, Gero, in 2017. He was euthanized at home under our giant oak tree in Georgia. It was painful and emotional, but also peaceful and honorable.

We currently have four dogs, a cat, a mule, pigeons, and a human baby girl, and I love them all dearly.

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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Walker

Old Westbury, New York

Walker (age 15.5) had been struggling with his balance and his appetite had withered. I decided it was time for me to say goodbye and give him a dignified send off he deserved It was not easy - making that phone call to set up the appointment was extremely difficult - but in hindsight 6 weeks later I am now viewing is as a truly positive one for Walker. Dr. Heather's compassion and professionalism turned one of the most difficult days of my life into one of joyous remembrance. Thank you Dr. Heather and Lap of Love!!!

Pam

Sacramento, California

Catherine was so very sensitive, compassionate and caring. She made the heartbreaking situation bearable.

Boca Raton, Florida

We would like to extend a huge heartfelt thank you to Lap of Love and especially Dr. Meagan for their amazing care during our time of need. Dr. Meagan was so caring, patient and compassionate during her time with us and our Gracie cat. It was so peaceful and loving and Dr. Meagan put all our doubts to rest. Gracie could not have been in better hands as she crossed over. We are truly and forever grateful.

Gina

Kings Park, New York

The care and respect you gave Bella was a Blessing to us. As hard as it was to let her go. The care you gave her in her little “bed” was comforting. Bella looked so peaceful. God Bless you all! Thank you

Neil

Amboy, Washington

I’ve fostered hospice cats for a number of years and helping one to pass never gets easier no matter how many times you experience it. But, this one ~ Tiberius. This one was tough. He was supposed to be with us for maybe six months. He ruled our home for four years. His passing left a huge hole in our lives. Thankfully, Dani Rockstad was standing on the edge of that hole to throw us the rope we so desperately needed when Tiberius finally asked to be let go. Dani, was his vet during her regular practice years and her advice and guidance played a huge role in how long Tiberius with us. To have her there to facilitate his transition was truly a gift from above and more than we could have hoped for. Her caring and compassion for Tiberius and how understanding and gentle she was with our family as we shared our last moments with our magnificent Black Cat made our entire experience one we can cherish. To say we would recommend her to be there for your loved one’s final moments goes without reservation of any sort! As I said to her that day ~ “Thank God it was you.” Thank you Dani!

Laurene

West Islip, New York

Our dog Bean , a beautiful 7yr. old lab, was diagnosed with end stage kidney failure and shocked the entire family. Although we knew she was very sick, she would still wag her tail and beg for food. Being heartbroken, we were hoping it was all a mistake. I made a phone call to Lap of Love and received nothing but kindness as I wept uncontrollably on the phone telling my story. It was explained that a hospice vet could make a house-call and discuss Bean's diagnosis and euthanize her if necessary. Needing guidance and reassurance that I was doing the right thing, I made the appointment. We anxiously waited for the vet to arrive on the scheduled day. Dr. Heather arrived and a feeling of calm overcame my family. Bean greeted her with lots of wet kisses which she embraced. She asked about our relationship with Bean and about her life. She then explained the medical diagnosis of kidney failure and what Bean was feeling. We knew immediately that we were doing the right thing by ending her suffering. Dr. Heather explained what would take place and was so compassionate and patient. She stroked , hugged and kissed Bean as if it were her own dog. Bean died a very peaceful death with her whole family around her. Although losing a pet is such a painful experience, Dr. Heather made it bearable and a special tribute to a beautiful friend and family member. She was not only Bean's angel that day, but my entire family. We will never forget what you did for us and Bean!

Walker

Old Westbury, New York

Walker (age 15.5) had been struggling with his balance and his appetite had withered. I decided it was time for me to say goodbye and give him a dignified send off he deserved It was not easy - making that phone call to set up the appointment was extremely difficult - but in hindsight 6 weeks later I am now viewing is as a truly positive one for Walker. Dr. Heather's compassion and professionalism turned one of the most difficult days of my life into one of joyous remembrance. Thank you Dr. Heather and Lap of Love!!!

Boca Raton, Florida

We would like to extend a huge heartfelt thank you to Lap of Love and especially Dr. Meagan for their amazing care during our time of need. Dr. Meagan was so caring, patient and compassionate during her time with us and our Gracie cat. It was so peaceful and loving and Dr. Meagan put all our doubts to rest. Gracie could not have been in better hands as she crossed over. We are truly and forever grateful.

Neil

Amboy, Washington

I’ve fostered hospice cats for a number of years and helping one to pass never gets easier no matter how many times you experience it. But, this one ~ Tiberius. This one was tough. He was supposed to be with us for maybe six months. He ruled our home for four years. His passing left a huge hole in our lives. Thankfully, Dani Rockstad was standing on the edge of that hole to throw us the rope we so desperately needed when Tiberius finally asked to be let go. Dani, was his vet during her regular practice years and her advice and guidance played a huge role in how long Tiberius with us. To have her there to facilitate his transition was truly a gift from above and more than we could have hoped for. Her caring and compassion for Tiberius and how understanding and gentle she was with our family as we shared our last moments with our magnificent Black Cat made our entire experience one we can cherish. To say we would recommend her to be there for your loved one’s final moments goes without reservation of any sort! As I said to her that day ~ “Thank God it was you.” Thank you Dani!

Laurene

West Islip, New York

Our dog Bean , a beautiful 7yr. old lab, was diagnosed with end stage kidney failure and shocked the entire family. Although we knew she was very sick, she would still wag her tail and beg for food. Being heartbroken, we were hoping it was all a mistake. I made a phone call to Lap of Love and received nothing but kindness as I wept uncontrollably on the phone telling my story. It was explained that a hospice vet could make a house-call and discuss Bean's diagnosis and euthanize her if necessary. Needing guidance and reassurance that I was doing the right thing, I made the appointment. We anxiously waited for the vet to arrive on the scheduled day. Dr. Heather arrived and a feeling of calm overcame my family. Bean greeted her with lots of wet kisses which she embraced. She asked about our relationship with Bean and about her life. She then explained the medical diagnosis of kidney failure and what Bean was feeling. We knew immediately that we were doing the right thing by ending her suffering. Dr. Heather explained what would take place and was so compassionate and patient. She stroked , hugged and kissed Bean as if it were her own dog. Bean died a very peaceful death with her whole family around her. Although losing a pet is such a painful experience, Dr. Heather made it bearable and a special tribute to a beautiful friend and family member. She was not only Bean's angel that day, but my entire family. We will never forget what you did for us and Bean!

Walker

Old Westbury, New York

Walker (age 15.5) had been struggling with his balance and his appetite had withered. I decided it was time for me to say goodbye and give him a dignified send off he deserved It was not easy - making that phone call to set up the appointment was extremely difficult - but in hindsight 6 weeks later I am now viewing is as a truly positive one for Walker. Dr. Heather's compassion and professionalism turned one of the most difficult days of my life into one of joyous remembrance. Thank you Dr. Heather and Lap of Love!!!

Helpful resources

Informational resources to help you navigate your pet’s quality of life

Explore all of our resources

Axel, Paterson, NJ
How Will I Know It's Time

Roger, Dumont, NJ
Blog

Bodhi, Yorba Linda, CA
Common Geriatric Pet Symptoms

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