I was born in North Idaho with an inherent love for all creatures great and small. I grew up with cats, dogs, horses, and a few small rodents, including rats. Although I love small rodents because they are cute, affectionate, and smart, horses and companion animals are my biggest passion.

I went to college at the University of Idaho, where I majored in biology and Spanish. During my undergraduate years, I studied abroad in Spain and did two internships at Disney World. I decided on a career in veterinary medicine during my later college years after discovering the diversity of opportunities in the field.

I went to veterinary school at the University of Illinois, and during my time there, I joined the U.S. Army. After graduating, I served at five duty sites in 10 years, including Fort Carson, Colorado, Fort Stewart, Georgia, Camp Arifjan in Kuwait, Uniformed Services University in Bethesda, Maryland, and Naval Medical Center in San Diego, California. I’m proud and thankful for my time in the Army, which gave me a vast range of experiences that most new veterinarians don’t get.

Early in my Army career, I attended a veterinary conference where I heard a lecture given by Lap of Love’s co-founder, Dr. Mary Gardner. Her story and the company’s mission inspired me, and I became interested in working for Lap of Love someday. Providing in-home hospice care and euthanasia for animals in a safe and comforting environment is so special. As an official part of the Lap of Love family, I take pride in helping families and pets experience the most peaceful, honorable passing they can.

I experienced in-home euthanasia with my retired military working dog, Gero, in 2017. He was euthanized at home under our giant oak tree in Georgia. It was painful and emotional, but also peaceful and honorable.

We currently have four dogs, a cat, a mule, pigeons, and a human baby girl, and I love them all dearly.