Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice & In-Home Euthanasia

As a young child growing up in Central Ohio, I always had an affinity towards animals. However, veterinary medicine was not the path I initially pursued. I earned both a Bachelor and Master degree in Social Work from The Ohio State University. As a medical social worker, this is where I was first introduced to Hospice. I also spent part of my career working in home health and senior services. Early in my career I found I enjoyed it most when my work brought me into people’s homes. While I enjoyed my social work career, veterinary medicine was still calling to me.  My first college roommate was my cat, Honey. After college we added 2 pug puppies to the mix, Hannah and Hallie.  Raising and training two small puppies rekindled my interest in veterinary medicine. I began working as a veterinary assistant, while pursuing my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at The Ohio State University. During this time, I also completed additional coursework in animal assisted therapy, and Hallie and I became certified as Pet Partners, visiting nursing homes and hospice patients.

After graduation, I spent time working at several small animal general practices in Central Ohio. With my previous end of life experiences as a social worker, I always found pet loss to be such a sacred part of my new veterinary profession. I was fortunate to work for several practices that allowed me the opportunity to offer home euthanasia services. I was grateful when I could come to the home, as I could see how much easier it was for my patients and their families. Personally, I have also had to make the decision to say goodbye to my beloved pets 3 times.  Each goodbye was different. Each goodbye was hard. Each goodbye was peaceful. I was so thankful for the veterinarians that held my hand and who allowed me to be present for each goodbye.

When I’m not practicing veterinary medicine, I enjoy spending time with my family, which consists of my husband, our 2 sons and our 2 dogs; a puggle named Tyde, and a pug named Chaos (both rescues who came to us already named). I also enjoy traveling, spending time outdoors, am an avid music fan, and have a love of all things hockey. 

I am honored to be a part of the Lap of Love team, and look forward to assisting Central Ohio families in their time of need. I truly feel the greatest gift I can give in my profession is to allow you and your beloved pet to share those last moments together peacefully, in a place your pet feels safe and secure, surrounded by so much love.