Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice & In-Home Euthanasia

I grew up in Davison, a small eastern Michigan town a short drive north of Detroit. Although tiny, our community had strong roots and enjoyed activities together such as parades and high school sports. I was raised in a family of 6 and a house full of pets, which was a little hectic at times, but also allowed for ample fondness of the human-animal bond. As a young child, I remember walking around with a toy stethoscope and bandaging my stuffed animals with tissue paper. Through high school I became involved with the music program, primarily playing clarinet and occasionally branching out into the eclectic accordion and baritone saxophone to fill in the gaps in the musical productions.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted to help animals and those who care for them. I attended Michigan State University through undergraduate school and transitioned to their veterinary college thereafter, while also interning at a local clinic and working at a horse ranch in the summers. Throughout school there was a heavy focus on diagnosing and treating illnesses and at the time I felt that to be my calling; however, not long after graduating I found myself gravitating toward end of life care.

While working in general practice, I discovered end of life appointments to be such a special celebration of life and a gentle transition for beloved family pets. The powerful bond each family shared with their animal companion absolutely moved me and it was then that I felt my true place in veterinary medicine. After developing strong connections with each family that came in for a euthanasia, I convinced my practice manager to allow me to travel to family’s homes, which was not standard protocol at our clinic. It was then that the real benefit of in-home care came to light. The bond between pet parents and their companion animals in those final moments remained undisturbed, offering a warm home filled with family and friends, instead of the stresses of a visit to a clinic. This unique opportunity with my former clinic led me to Lap of Love where I am able to provide the gift of in-home hospice and euthanasia services exclusively.  

In my spare time, I enjoy hiking and biking on scenic Michigan trails, riding horses, and teaching new tricks to my rescue cat Sam.