Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice & In-Home Euthanasia

I grew up in the countryside on a small farm in eastern Germany, about 30 miles south of Leipzig. All my ancestors were farmers, and my dad thought I could continue the tradition of animal care as a veterinarian. I certainly loved nature, science, and the animals I was surrounded by, including cats, collie dogs, poultry, pigs, and cattle. 

After attending the University of Leipzig College of Veterinary Medicine, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do next. The government needed veterinarians in food surveillance, so I worked there full-time while studying for my PhD in the evenings. After earning that degree, I managed a diagnostic microbiology laboratory.

When I came to the U.S., I accidentally fell into my next position as a clinical research veterinarian while going through the U.S. licensing process. During my career in academia, I attended to a slew of species, including nonhuman primates, dogs, cats, sheep, goats, pigs, frogs, and rodents, in a few different research institutions. I always told the students who were interested in becoming veterinarians that the profession had endless possibilities, and I’ve enjoyed every aspect of it so far. 

As a veterinarian, I wholeheartedly enjoy working with people, resolving problems, and helping them navigate difficult times. A pet is part of the family, and I know from experience that saying goodbye is overwhelming and sad. At Lap of Love, I support families through difficult decisions and help their pets transition with dignity in the comfort of their homes. I wish I had known about hospice care and Lap of Love when I lost one of my beloved cats of 9.5 years, as her transition would have been so much more peaceful.

Outside of work, I enjoy gardening, knitting, and exercising. I also love spending time with my husband, two daughters, and three grandchildren. I maintain an active lifestyle so I can play with my grandkids, and I find pleasure in cooking, baking, and entertaining friends with my creations.