Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice & In-Home Euthanasia

I grew up in the small town of Ebensburg, Pennsylvania—my high school’s graduating class was only about 100 students. It was here that I discovered my love of nature, and the joy that animals bring us. You could say I was born to be a veterinarian. As soon as I knew what the word meant, I had no doubt that’s what I would be. Shadowing a local veterinarian in high school cemented my desire, because I loved every minute of the experience.

I attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania for my undergraduate studies before completing veterinary school at Michigan State University. I received a well rounded, real-world education at MSU and appreciate everyone who was a part of my experience there.  

After graduation, I spent 30 years working in small animal medicine and developed a passion for surgery, because it allowed me to cure a pet’s condition. However, not all pets can be saved, and I learned a lot about the power of the human-animal bond from my time supporting clients during their pet’s end of life. It was difficult to provide a peaceful, individualized end-of-life experience in the clinic setting, and as my career developed, I realized that I wanted to provide better end-of-life care for my patients. 

When someone loses a pet, they lose a family member who has given them the truest form of unconditional love—a family member who has supported them through trials and shared in their times of joy. Our pets deserve the ending we want for ourselves—in familiar surroundings with loved ones nearby, a last treat or hug, and release from pain. I am honored to be able to provide this for pets and their families through my role at Lap of Love.

When I’m not working I love to ride my Morgan mare, Maya—she and I have become quite the team over the last 12 years—and go on adventures with my two dogs, Bandit and Chloe. I also enjoy creating acrylic-poured art and traveling.