I grew up in St. Louis, Missouri, and my mom says I knew I wanted to become a veterinarian by age 5. While I don’t remember being quite so certain, I always knew I wanted to work with animals. By 15, I was volunteering with a wildlife rescue organization and working alongside a veterinarian. My academic performance earned me early acceptance to the University of Missouri–Columbia. After graduation, I completed an internship with Florida Veterinary Specialists in Tampa, Florida.

I spent several years working with small animals and exotic pets in Tampa before moving to New Orleans, where I practiced at a progressive, compassionate small-animal and exotics clinic for 15 years. I then spent a few years working as a relief veterinarian. One of the things I cherish most about veterinary medicine is the human-animal bond that develops throughout a pet’s life. There is something incredibly special about the companionship and unconditional love we share with our animals.

I recently said goodbye to my beloved cat, Bunny, who was part of my life for 19 years. I had her from the time she was a kitten, and she was by my side through so many milestones, from marriage and raising children to some of life’s most difficult moments. Losing her was especially painful, and I struggled with knowing when it was time to let her go. I loved her deeply and wanted to make the kindest decision for her, even when that meant saying goodbye.

That experience reinforced just how difficult end-of-life decisions can be and how meaningful it is to help a beloved pet pass peacefully, with dignity and love. I believe few acts of kindness are greater than giving our pets the gentlest goodbye possible. Throughout my career, I have performed many in-home euthanasias, guided families through difficult quality-of-life decisions, and provided grief support to pet owners. It is an honor to offer compassion, reassurance, and understanding during such an emotional time.

Outside of veterinary medicine, I enjoy reading, drinking plenty of coffee, and spending time with my three cats, five chickens, and two guinea pigs.

Local and emergency resources