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Dr. Lindsay

Fairfield County and Surrounding Areas

After receiving a hamster as a Christmas gift at the age of seven, I knew animals needed to be a part of my life forever. While growing up in Florida, I befriended all sorts of creatures that I encountered in my neighborhood. I could be seen catching and cuddling lizards, snakes (non-venomous!), birds, and especially neighborhood cats. My bond with animals was instantly formed and forever secured.

I attended veterinary school at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine. During my first year, I met my future husband who was also completing a professional degree. Upon graduation, we married, moved to his native Connecticut, and I began practicing in Stamford, CT all within one month! Throughout my many years of veterinary medicine, I have enjoyed a variety of experiences. I started my career at a feline-only hospital then transitioned to a traditional general practice. After having my first child, I started a house-call practice, which fit perfectly into my life as a new mother. For the last several years, I have been a part of a general practice where I met wonderful mentors and saw a complexity of internal medicine, emergency and surgical cases.

Throughout my career, my purpose as a veterinarian has always been to maintain a good quality of life for my patient and prevent suffering. I knew going into the veterinary field that not all illnesses can be cured, and end of life care would be essential. Regardless of the medical condition or treatment plan, my main focus is always to ensure that my patient’s quality of life is top priority. When that quality can no longer be preserved, my purpose is to prevent suffering and ease the end of life transition. The last moments of a pet’s life should reflect the love, dignity, and intense bond that was shared with their family. These ideals are what led me to Lap of Love.

While not taking care of furry friends, I enjoy trail running outside to experience the beauty of the seasons. I am also a hobbyist baker and love decorating cakes! I share my life with my supportive husband, two amazing kids, and a menagerie of pets. Our home is filled with the joy and companionship of 6 cats, 2 dogs, and 2 hamsters!

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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Cindy

Houston, Texas

I can't say enough about Dr. Fenton. She spent as much time with us as we needed to talk over Max's history, current condition, and ultimately the decision that it was time to say goodbye to our beloved fur baby yesterday. Dr. Christina cared for Max as if he were her own. This is the first time we have said goodbye to one of our babies at home. I appreciate this wonderful service provided by Dr. Fenton and Lap of Love. It is less stressful on the pet to be at home with family in familiar surroundings. We were able to spend as much time as we needed with Max before and after. I highly recommend Lap of Love and Dr. Fenton.

Wayne

Bedminster, New Jersey

Dr Carole was excellent. We had never used a hospice service for a pet before, but she was so kind, that Tina and I both felt like we had found a support group. She checked in with us multiple times and was always a comfort. Then, when it was time to put Jazzy to rest, Dr Carole wasn't available for a few days but Dr Greg Tambini came to our house and was also very supportive. God willing, we won't need hospice service again for a long while, but when we do, we will definitely call Lap of Love.

Angelique

Jacksonville, Florida

Dr. Katie was wonderful helping us with Maggie's transition. Our Maggie was a 12 year old Boxer with many ailments and a spirit that did not want to let go. Some good friends recommended Lap of Love, so I scheduled a consult for the following week, thinking it is not time, but I need to prepare. Unfortunately Maggie's health deteriorated rapidly a few days later. Having Dr. Katie come to our home was truly a gift. She spent time talking to me and my son; getting to know Maggie, and getting to know us and our wishes for Maggie. She talked us through the entire journey, making it as easy as possible. Dr. Katie is truly a kind, loving, thoughtful person that truly cares about helping families say good bye to these sweet pets that are so much a part of our lives. Thank you Dr. Katie!!!

Katrina

Oviedo, Florida

Dr. Amanda helped us with the most difficult goodbye of my life. She arrived early at our home during a thunderstorm to end the suffering for our beloved cat, Misty, who had been going through renal failure. Dr. Amanda was soothing and patient while explaining the process to us. Losing Misty was so hard but Dr. Amanda and Lap of Love made it easier. She even sent us a handwritten card the following expressing her condolences.

Scott & Theresa

Ballwin, Missouri

I would recommend Lap of Love to anyone who will be facing the very sad day of sending there pet on to Heaven. I have waited to post this for over a month since my best bud Gunther gained his freedom from his ailing body. I wasn't really looking to get a puppy 13+ years ago. I woke from a dream one night. A dream that left a vivid image of a puppy that I did not know at the time would soon be part of my life. It was just 2 weeks later I decided to go to a near by park. The park was having a stray rescue event that day. The first stop was a large air conditioned kennel trailer, so I went in with no real thoughts of purchasing a pup, but thought at least I could play with some of them as I love dogs. Once inside i met a 12 week old black and white female GSP. Wow this puppy looked just like the one in my dream except the one in my dream was red and white. I played with this little spunky pup for about five minutes until I felt a tug at my pants leg. OMG... There he was the puppy in my dream. The brother pup. I couldn't believe it. I didn't want to leave him for someone else to adopt. But my friend wanted to look at all of the other dogs in the main building. I spent about five minutes looking at about 100 other dogs and just knew that puppy would be adopted before I returned to him. I ran back to the trailer as if on fire to see him still there. No time to waste. I filled out the papers ASAP, wrote the check and now was a proud new dad of would turn out to be the best friend I would ever know. We proceeded to walk a 2 mile trail in the park when about a 1/2 mile into the journey my little friend laid on the ground exhausted and fell asleep. Well i scooped him up and carried him the last 1 1/2 miles to the truck, wrapped him in a old coat and drove home as he slept the whole way. I chose for him the name Gunther. It just seemed to fit him. For the next 2 months Gunther went with me everywhere. He loved riding in the truck. He wanted to be with me at all times, He even escaped my truck at 6 mos old to find me picking out Lumber at Lowes. My little floppy eared buddy running as fast as he could straight for me in the Lumber isle. Soo Cute. At 12 mos old Gunther saved me from a huge Brahma bull that had caught me out in the middle of his breeding grounds. The bull was so far away I didn't think he would bother us. But then he started to charge from about 2 football fields away and I started running in the opposite direction as fast as I could. When I looked back, to my surprise Gunther Still a puppy charged directly at this 2500 pound monster with bad intentions. I couldn't believe the courage if this little guy. As soon as cleared the creek to safety, Gunther left the bull alone and joined me on the other side. If I had not seen it with my own eyes I wouldn't have believed it. We all have great stories to tell about our pets in many funny, heroic and loving situations. I think most pet owners could write a never ending book about their pets. Myself included. A few later Gunther and I met his new mom. Theresa, the love of my life and his. He immediately began to watch over her and gave her unconditional love and protection. Gunther never met a stranger and loved everyone. He was the smartest dog we ever had. I never had to teach him anything. He seamed to just understand English. Kind of spooky sometimes. Theresa and I adopted another rescue pup when Gunther was about 6. Gunther soon taught Paxton our Australian Kelpie the rules and house trained him. Gunther was the best big brother Paxton could ever hope for. He took his new role as big brother very seriously. Paxton came from a terrible back ground and if not for Gunther I don't know that he would've been able break out of his timid shell. They played all the time, sharing toys, meals, treats, truck, Oh and our bed LOL Gunthers favorite word was "Truck" . Even on his last day when I mentioned we were going to take a ride in the truck, he turned into a puppy again. Gunther's last couple of weeks were very tough on us. After having emergency surgery to save his life a month earlier. He made a quick recovery for the first 2 weeks and then was unable to eat anything. With no complaints or indication of discomfort he maintained his dignity to the end. He was starving to death. No Rib-eye, Salmon filet or chicken breast could tempt him. Losing weight and strength rapidly. It was very evident that the cancer was wearing him down. I guess we know that our loyal precious companions will not be with us for ever but somehow we forget, while our friends our still healthy. As tough and courageous as Gunther was, he could not beat Father Time. We Took Gunther to his favorite place on his last day Babler Park. It was an unusually warm day for late December in Missouri. Theresa and I drove to the park with the boys in their back seat of the big truck. Gunther as usual had his head out the window, taking in the smells of all the world for the last time. We couldn't take enough pictures of him that day. Walking through the creek and sniffing and peeing on everything in site. Marking his territory one last time. We tried to smile and be happy talking of all the beautiful memories he had blessed our family with. The last walk across the bridge and loading him up into the truck hit me the hardest. Could I have been an even better friend and father to him.. The immense wait of regret and fear on my shoulders. How will I get through this. A few licks on my face from Gunther, "Thank you Dad, My unconditional LOVE is still here for you to the end". Dr. Dawnetta Woodruff arrived to the house around 1pm. She is all that we could've hoped for in a situation like this. She spoke to us with a very tender and compassionate heart. She was very reassuring and sweet to our baby and was in no hurry. She sat with Theresa and I on the floor as Gunther laid on his bed surrounded by his brother Paxton and Cat Jimmy. All of his favorite toys scattered around him. As we watched him fight to keep his eyes open to the end. Sooo loyal til his last breath wanting to watch over all of us and keep us safe. We sat with him for a while until he was gone. And just like the first day we met. I wrapped him in a blanket, picked him up and carried him to the TRUCK to go home. Gunther I Love you. Just as the last 13 years we shared went by like a blink of an eye. I will see you again. God please allow Gunther to visit from time to time in my dreams and protect us. Give joy to his little brother Paxton again as he is still morning after 6 weeks. Thank you for blessing our lives with the Greatest dog we could've ever hoped for. Amen.

Marc

Baldwin, New York

I would first like to thank Dr Heather Manfredi, DVM for her compassion and kindness to Kaya and my whole family. She helped put my mind at ease by looking at Kaya first. Letting me know I was making the right decision. She watched her try to walk and she played with her for quite some time before she started. She talked to Kaya, kissed her and made Kaya comfortable before she was put to sleep. Shaved her leg where she put the catheter and gave us the fur. Made an impression of her paw. She handled Kaya after she was euthanized has though she was still alive. When we were removing her from the house. This was and still is one of the most traumatic experiences for me. Still Dr Manfredi was able to make it less traumatic for the whole family. My deepest gratitude for the help of not only Dr Manfredi, but also to who I spoke to on the phone. Bless all of you for the service you provided. Marc Weinstein

Christine

hauppauge, New York

Words can't express how caring and wonderful this team of special people. Back in July we knew it was unfortunately approaching our dog Bandit was getting older and in pain.. From the first phone call to the follow up beautiful memorial email this beautiful company is compassionate and amazing. Lap of Love helped us when our beloved beautiful handsome boy was just suffering too much. Dr. Heather was so kind and compassionate. Our boy Bandit was so relaxed and comfortable with all of us around him. We shared stories and memories even our other dog Bella was able to say goodbye to Bandit . Thank you all for providing this beautiful service. Our Bandit lived a long beautiful life. With your help we were able to say goodbye peacefully and with dignity. Thank you Christine Sciortino And Family💓

Cindy

Houston, Texas

I can't say enough about Dr. Fenton. She spent as much time with us as we needed to talk over Max's history, current condition, and ultimately the decision that it was time to say goodbye to our beloved fur baby yesterday. Dr. Christina cared for Max as if he were her own. This is the first time we have said goodbye to one of our babies at home. I appreciate this wonderful service provided by Dr. Fenton and Lap of Love. It is less stressful on the pet to be at home with family in familiar surroundings. We were able to spend as much time as we needed with Max before and after. I highly recommend Lap of Love and Dr. Fenton.

Wayne

Bedminster, New Jersey

Dr Carole was excellent. We had never used a hospice service for a pet before, but she was so kind, that Tina and I both felt like we had found a support group. She checked in with us multiple times and was always a comfort. Then, when it was time to put Jazzy to rest, Dr Carole wasn't available for a few days but Dr Greg Tambini came to our house and was also very supportive. God willing, we won't need hospice service again for a long while, but when we do, we will definitely call Lap of Love.

Angelique

Jacksonville, Florida

Dr. Katie was wonderful helping us with Maggie's transition. Our Maggie was a 12 year old Boxer with many ailments and a spirit that did not want to let go. Some good friends recommended Lap of Love, so I scheduled a consult for the following week, thinking it is not time, but I need to prepare. Unfortunately Maggie's health deteriorated rapidly a few days later. Having Dr. Katie come to our home was truly a gift. She spent time talking to me and my son; getting to know Maggie, and getting to know us and our wishes for Maggie. She talked us through the entire journey, making it as easy as possible. Dr. Katie is truly a kind, loving, thoughtful person that truly cares about helping families say good bye to these sweet pets that are so much a part of our lives. Thank you Dr. Katie!!!

Katrina

Oviedo, Florida

Dr. Amanda helped us with the most difficult goodbye of my life. She arrived early at our home during a thunderstorm to end the suffering for our beloved cat, Misty, who had been going through renal failure. Dr. Amanda was soothing and patient while explaining the process to us. Losing Misty was so hard but Dr. Amanda and Lap of Love made it easier. She even sent us a handwritten card the following expressing her condolences.

Scott & Theresa

Ballwin, Missouri

I would recommend Lap of Love to anyone who will be facing the very sad day of sending there pet on to Heaven. I have waited to post this for over a month since my best bud Gunther gained his freedom from his ailing body. I wasn't really looking to get a puppy 13+ years ago. I woke from a dream one night. A dream that left a vivid image of a puppy that I did not know at the time would soon be part of my life. It was just 2 weeks later I decided to go to a near by park. The park was having a stray rescue event that day. The first stop was a large air conditioned kennel trailer, so I went in with no real thoughts of purchasing a pup, but thought at least I could play with some of them as I love dogs. Once inside i met a 12 week old black and white female GSP. Wow this puppy looked just like the one in my dream except the one in my dream was red and white. I played with this little spunky pup for about five minutes until I felt a tug at my pants leg. OMG... There he was the puppy in my dream. The brother pup. I couldn't believe it. I didn't want to leave him for someone else to adopt. But my friend wanted to look at all of the other dogs in the main building. I spent about five minutes looking at about 100 other dogs and just knew that puppy would be adopted before I returned to him. I ran back to the trailer as if on fire to see him still there. No time to waste. I filled out the papers ASAP, wrote the check and now was a proud new dad of would turn out to be the best friend I would ever know. We proceeded to walk a 2 mile trail in the park when about a 1/2 mile into the journey my little friend laid on the ground exhausted and fell asleep. Well i scooped him up and carried him the last 1 1/2 miles to the truck, wrapped him in a old coat and drove home as he slept the whole way. I chose for him the name Gunther. It just seemed to fit him. For the next 2 months Gunther went with me everywhere. He loved riding in the truck. He wanted to be with me at all times, He even escaped my truck at 6 mos old to find me picking out Lumber at Lowes. My little floppy eared buddy running as fast as he could straight for me in the Lumber isle. Soo Cute. At 12 mos old Gunther saved me from a huge Brahma bull that had caught me out in the middle of his breeding grounds. The bull was so far away I didn't think he would bother us. But then he started to charge from about 2 football fields away and I started running in the opposite direction as fast as I could. When I looked back, to my surprise Gunther Still a puppy charged directly at this 2500 pound monster with bad intentions. I couldn't believe the courage if this little guy. As soon as cleared the creek to safety, Gunther left the bull alone and joined me on the other side. If I had not seen it with my own eyes I wouldn't have believed it. We all have great stories to tell about our pets in many funny, heroic and loving situations. I think most pet owners could write a never ending book about their pets. Myself included. A few later Gunther and I met his new mom. Theresa, the love of my life and his. He immediately began to watch over her and gave her unconditional love and protection. Gunther never met a stranger and loved everyone. He was the smartest dog we ever had. I never had to teach him anything. He seamed to just understand English. Kind of spooky sometimes. Theresa and I adopted another rescue pup when Gunther was about 6. Gunther soon taught Paxton our Australian Kelpie the rules and house trained him. Gunther was the best big brother Paxton could ever hope for. He took his new role as big brother very seriously. Paxton came from a terrible back ground and if not for Gunther I don't know that he would've been able break out of his timid shell. They played all the time, sharing toys, meals, treats, truck, Oh and our bed LOL Gunthers favorite word was "Truck" . Even on his last day when I mentioned we were going to take a ride in the truck, he turned into a puppy again. Gunther's last couple of weeks were very tough on us. After having emergency surgery to save his life a month earlier. He made a quick recovery for the first 2 weeks and then was unable to eat anything. With no complaints or indication of discomfort he maintained his dignity to the end. He was starving to death. No Rib-eye, Salmon filet or chicken breast could tempt him. Losing weight and strength rapidly. It was very evident that the cancer was wearing him down. I guess we know that our loyal precious companions will not be with us for ever but somehow we forget, while our friends our still healthy. As tough and courageous as Gunther was, he could not beat Father Time. We Took Gunther to his favorite place on his last day Babler Park. It was an unusually warm day for late December in Missouri. Theresa and I drove to the park with the boys in their back seat of the big truck. Gunther as usual had his head out the window, taking in the smells of all the world for the last time. We couldn't take enough pictures of him that day. Walking through the creek and sniffing and peeing on everything in site. Marking his territory one last time. We tried to smile and be happy talking of all the beautiful memories he had blessed our family with. The last walk across the bridge and loading him up into the truck hit me the hardest. Could I have been an even better friend and father to him.. The immense wait of regret and fear on my shoulders. How will I get through this. A few licks on my face from Gunther, "Thank you Dad, My unconditional LOVE is still here for you to the end". Dr. Dawnetta Woodruff arrived to the house around 1pm. She is all that we could've hoped for in a situation like this. She spoke to us with a very tender and compassionate heart. She was very reassuring and sweet to our baby and was in no hurry. She sat with Theresa and I on the floor as Gunther laid on his bed surrounded by his brother Paxton and Cat Jimmy. All of his favorite toys scattered around him. As we watched him fight to keep his eyes open to the end. Sooo loyal til his last breath wanting to watch over all of us and keep us safe. We sat with him for a while until he was gone. And just like the first day we met. I wrapped him in a blanket, picked him up and carried him to the TRUCK to go home. Gunther I Love you. Just as the last 13 years we shared went by like a blink of an eye. I will see you again. God please allow Gunther to visit from time to time in my dreams and protect us. Give joy to his little brother Paxton again as he is still morning after 6 weeks. Thank you for blessing our lives with the Greatest dog we could've ever hoped for. Amen.

Marc

Baldwin, New York

I would first like to thank Dr Heather Manfredi, DVM for her compassion and kindness to Kaya and my whole family. She helped put my mind at ease by looking at Kaya first. Letting me know I was making the right decision. She watched her try to walk and she played with her for quite some time before she started. She talked to Kaya, kissed her and made Kaya comfortable before she was put to sleep. Shaved her leg where she put the catheter and gave us the fur. Made an impression of her paw. She handled Kaya after she was euthanized has though she was still alive. When we were removing her from the house. This was and still is one of the most traumatic experiences for me. Still Dr Manfredi was able to make it less traumatic for the whole family. My deepest gratitude for the help of not only Dr Manfredi, but also to who I spoke to on the phone. Bless all of you for the service you provided. Marc Weinstein

Christine

hauppauge, New York

Words can't express how caring and wonderful this team of special people. Back in July we knew it was unfortunately approaching our dog Bandit was getting older and in pain.. From the first phone call to the follow up beautiful memorial email this beautiful company is compassionate and amazing. Lap of Love helped us when our beloved beautiful handsome boy was just suffering too much. Dr. Heather was so kind and compassionate. Our boy Bandit was so relaxed and comfortable with all of us around him. We shared stories and memories even our other dog Bella was able to say goodbye to Bandit . Thank you all for providing this beautiful service. Our Bandit lived a long beautiful life. With your help we were able to say goodbye peacefully and with dignity. Thank you Christine Sciortino And Family💓

Cindy

Houston, Texas

I can't say enough about Dr. Fenton. She spent as much time with us as we needed to talk over Max's history, current condition, and ultimately the decision that it was time to say goodbye to our beloved fur baby yesterday. Dr. Christina cared for Max as if he were her own. This is the first time we have said goodbye to one of our babies at home. I appreciate this wonderful service provided by Dr. Fenton and Lap of Love. It is less stressful on the pet to be at home with family in familiar surroundings. We were able to spend as much time as we needed with Max before and after. I highly recommend Lap of Love and Dr. Fenton.

Helpful resources

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

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When to put a dog down — Axel, Paterson, NJ
How Will I Know It's Time

Home pet euthanasia — Roger, Dumont, NJ
Blog

Cat euthanasia — Bodhi, Yorba Linda, CA
Common Geriatric Pet Symptoms

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