In-Home Pet Euthanasia in Alachua County: Gainesville & Surrounding Areas

I grew up in a small town in Tennessee and often found my 6-year-old self in my zoo animal themed room surrounded by over 30 stuffed animal toys, a cat named Smokey, and a German Shepard named Starsky. My affinity for animals was so strong from an early age that my parents frequently asked me if I wanted to be a veterinarian when I grew up. For years the answer was “no”, and the reason I gave was that I didn’t want to see animals in pain or pass away.

Fast forward through the winding paths of life, and I eventually discovered my passion in veterinary medicine (that my parents knew I had all along). I worked as a veterinary technician for several years, then later attended and graduated from University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Now, I can’t imagine a more meaningful existence than helping pets and the families that love them. After five years as a general practitioner, I discovered that some of the moments that mean the most to me, and the ones I find most rewarding are those I spend helping loving pet parents say goodbye to their furry loved ones. This calling was reinforced when my husband and I got to cuddle with and whisper to our 13-year-old pittie girl, Starbuck, as we said goodbye to her in the comfort of our home. That experience was one of the most difficult of my life, while also one I will cherish forever. Eight months later the stars aligned, and I joined Lap of Love where I am honored to help other families say goodbye, as we did, in the comfort of their homes. 

Currently, I share my home with my wonderful hubby David, our big goofy puppy Macaroni, and our sweet kitty Giselle. Outside of work my passions and pursuits include travel, personal development, photography, crafting, DIY anything and everything, minimalism, and intentional living. Our latest and biggest DIY project to date is converting an old school bus into a tiny house and you will find us most weekends covered in paint, dirt, or sawdust (sometimes all 3) and enjoying every minute of it. 

Born and raised in Florida, I spent most of my childhood in the Lakeland area. I have always enjoyed having animals and wanted to be a veterinarian for as long as I can remember. Growing up, we had several pets in our family, including: our dog (the most patient pup you'd ever meet!), two snakes, and my cat, which I begged my parents for when he decided to adopt us.

In college, I never wavered from my dream of wanting to become a veterinarian. I received a Bachelors in Science from Florida State University and then attended the University of Florida, where I obtained my Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine. While in veterinary school, I completed a two-week externship with Lap of Love and was amazed by the compassion and peace that I witnessed at one of the most difficult times in these families lives. That experience remained in the back of my head, and heart, as I graduated and became a veterinarian.

After graduating, I moved to Tampa with my husband and two cats, where I worked at a feline-only practice. As much as I loved seeing kittens, I found the utmost fulfillment helping the senior cats and their families as they navigated their golden years and final moments.  It is truly a gift we have as veterinarians to be able to relieve suffering and provide a peaceful passing to the pets we love.

I am passionate about providing support, care, and comfort to both pets and their families through these delicate moments.

I grew up in Rockwall, Texas, a small town outside of Dallas. My family had dogs, and I felt an instant connection with most animals I met. As a teen, I was active in the marching band and worked weekends at boarding facilities and veterinary clinics. I witnessed the thoughtfulness and care shown by my family veterinarian when we brought in our pets, and I wanted to make people feel heard, cared for, and safe in the same way.

I applied to veterinary school and was initially surprised by my acceptance. Once I realized the tremendous opportunity I’d been given, I resolved to put in the work and become what I truly wanted to be. I attended Texas A&M University for my undergraduate studies and then the Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine.

Over the years and through several moves, I’ve practiced small animal medicine in Orange County, California, Charlotte, North Carolina, and Gainesville, Florida. The best part about being a veterinarian is getting to know pet owners and learning about their lives and the pets they share their lives with. I find connecting with people in this way to be fun and rewarding.

Euthanasia is a service like any other, and it’s a privilege to provide high-quality, comfort care to pets through their end-of-life journey with Lap of Love. I enjoy hearing stories about each pet and can empathize with the pain of loss. My first dog passed away abruptly, and we could not say goodbye. I know home euthanasia would have comforted my family and me, and I’m honored to provide that opportunity for others. Sharing those last sacred moments with a family who loves their pet dearly is a beautiful thing.

Outside work, I enjoy exercising, running, practicing jiu-jitsu, playing video games, and reading. I strive for self-improvement and love traveling for races, to see friends, and to explore other cities.