Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice & In-Home Euthanasia

Unlike many of my colleagues, I came to veterinary medicine through a slightly less traditional route. Growing up in rural Kansas, I dreamt of opening a non-profit shelter for homeless pets, but I was absolutely convinced that I wouldn’t be able to handle the medical aspects of such a facility. Then, at 18 years of age I took a rather random job as a kennel technician at a local veterinary clinic, and I was instantly hooked. The satisfaction of improving an animal’s quality of life far outweighed my fears that they were suddenly inconsequential, and I finally knew what I wanted to be when I grew up.  

During my veterinary studies at Colorado State University, I was a member of the pet hospice club and gained invaluable experience in how to help both owners and their pets through some of the most difficult life stages. Around the same time, I came home for Christmas vacation and found that it was time to help my uncle and grandmother through the loss of their beloved Labrador, Chance. Our local veterinarian was able to visit the farm for this last appointment, and Chance’s final moments were spent out in the sun, in his yard, on his blanket, and surrounded by everyone who loved him. Through the grief, the encompassing sense of relief, love, and family bonding is what I carry with me to this day.

After graduating from the veterinary program at Colorado State University, I worked in a variety of medical settings; from low-income clinics to shelters to general practice, one thing remained constant - I've always loved geriatric medicine. It is an honor to help make a beloved pet’s last years and end of life as peaceful, joyful, and pain-free as possible. Ultimately, I've found a career in my passion and understand the privilege, trust, and vulnerability that comes with preserving the human animal bond during these final moments.