I was raised on a beef cattle farm in Central New York, west of Syracuse. I grew up in a large family, belonged to 4-H, played many sports through high school and college, sang in the church choir, and was in a Masonic organization for young women.

My uncle, who lived next door, was a veterinarian in a mixed-animal practice until he moved his family to Athens, Georgia, where he taught large-animal medicine at the veterinary college.

When I was old enough, I worked in his practice and got to experience much of the life of a veterinarian.

I attended the State University of New York at Brockport and earned degrees in biology and chemistry. I then worked on a master's degree in neurobiochemistry in Chicago and earned my veterinary degree from Cornell University.

After working for a few practices in Western New York and the Albany area, I started my own house-call practice in the Capital Region, which eventually grew into a general small-animal practice with a special interest in avian and exotic care. When I moved to the mid-Atlantic area, I reinvigorated my interest in routine dog and cat care, with a special focus on chronic pain and geriatric care. I also worked in emergency medicine during the COVID epidemic, where I gained experience caring for many sick and injured pets for whom a peaceful, pain-free passing was needed.

Several years ago, I had to euthanize my own pup, CJ, due to cancer, and my heart still aches. Although this task is difficult, it is also a blessing to be able to keep pets from suffering when age, disease, or injury affects their quality of life. I have dedicated my life to helping pets lead their best and happiest lives.

Outside of work, I enjoy woodworking in the shop behind my house and working in my extensive gardens. I also enjoy hiking, reading, and traveling throughout Western New York to see local sites, including the Eternal Flame, Niagara Falls (on both the U.S. and Canadian sides), wine country near Lewiston, and Corning for glassmaking.

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