I grew up in suburban Cincinnati, Ohio, where I spent many hours at the zoo, nature center, and museum, fostering a love of science and nature. My parents instilled in me a respect for all animals, and I had family members who worked in veterinary medicine. After shadowing and volunteering at shelters, groomers, and vet hospitals, I knew I wanted to become a veterinarian to help people and their pets.

I earned a bachelor’s degree in biology with a minor in chemistry from Wilmington College in Ohio, then traveled to the West Coast to attend veterinary school at Oregon State University—Go Beavs! Following vet school, I completed internships in Oklahoma, Delaware, and New Jersey, focusing on exotic pets, emergency care, and general practice.

My special interests in veterinary medicine include working with exotic species, especially aquatic animals, and preserving the health of people, animals, and the environment by supporting conservation and the One Health movement. I also have a special love for cats.

My experiences as a pet owner have shaped my views on euthanasia and led me to join Lap of Love. One of my childhood cats had a tumor that made her very sick. She underwent surgery, but the tumor proved inoperable and the surgeon recommended euthanasia to alleviate her suffering. The veterinary team understood how important it was for us to be with our sweet girl in her final moments, and gave us that time to say goodbye.

I will never forget the kindness and understanding of the veterinary team during that time, and I want to offer similar experiences to others. I know how difficult and stressful it can be to make end-of-life decisions in a busy veterinary clinic, and I find it rewarding to offer families the comfort and peace of home during their pet’s final moments.

Outside of working, I enjoy hiking, reading, writing, video gaming, traveling, attending Renaissance Fairs, and going to the theater. I also enjoy listening to music and playing the clarinet, tenor recorder, and ocarina. I look forward to visiting the beach, swimming, and SCUBA diving during my annual trips to the Florida coast.

Local and emergency resources