Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice & In-Home Euthanasia

I grew up in the Chicago suburbs, wishing for a farm full of animals but settling for an amazing family dog and barn time whenever possible. As a horse-crazy teenager and young adult in college, I envisioned myself as a mobile equine vet with a ride-along dog. I always pictured myself caring for any type of horse, from broodmares to foals and racehorses to backyard ponies.  

Throughout vet school, my interests began to weigh more heavily towards small animal medicine, mainly due to the increased client interaction. I truly enjoyed clinical rotations where I was able to focus on each individual pet and give the family reassurance that their pet was being cared for like he or she was my own.  

After graduating from vet school at Kansas State University, I focused on small animal general practice. I found myself thankful for the preventive care I was able to provide, but mostly enjoyed focusing on increased quality of life for pets at home and in the veterinary clinic. To me, this included physical and mental well being. After completing multiple Fear Free courses, I am still constantly looking to learn more about relieving anxiety for our pets. Attending lectures given by Lap of Love’s Co-Founder, Dr. Mary Gardner, was my first glance into the world of veterinary hospice and end of life care.  Her tips on comfort care changed the way I practiced in the clinic - for the better! 

I am now grateful to have the opportunity to combine my love of small animal medicine, client connecting, mobile practice, and above all, comfort care for our pets into this career with Lap of Love.