Meet the veterinarians
About Dr. Mark Roberts
I spent the first half of my childhood in Indianapolis and the second half in the small town of Lenexa, Kansas. I love animals and have always been fascinated with science, so combining the two naturally led me to veterinary medicine.
During college, I was torn between human medicine and veterinary medicine until I began working for an animal hospital. While doing weekend kennel duties and spending time with pets, I realized I had a calling to become a veterinarian.
I earned bachelor's degrees in biology and business administration, and an MBA from the University of Kansas. I then graduated with my veterinary degree from the University of Florida. After graduation, I was selected to complete a 15-month rotating small animal medicine and surgery internship at the prestigious Angell Memorial Animal Hospital in Boston.
Following graduation, I opened several small animal hospitals in Kansas, Missouri, Virginia, West Virginia, and Florida. I have always been interested in geriatric wellness and end-of-life hospice care, especially the art of euthanasia and providing an honorable and peaceful goodbye. As an early practice owner in the late 1990s, I was one of the first in the area to offer senior wellness plans, pain and quality-of-life assessments, and in-home euthanasia services.
In 1997, my beloved Lab, Bo, who accompanied me on many hikes and Jeep rides, developed cancer that quickly spread to his lungs. After realizing there was nothing more I could do for Bo, we took one last Jeep ride. In the crisp mountain air of a beautiful spring morning, Bo went to sleep while enjoying the sunshine and his favorite peanut butter cookies. On that day, Bo taught me that we all deserve the best life—and death—possible. I immediately implemented the “Bo effect” into my daily practice, and I am honored to provide end-of-life services to pets and their families to make a difficult situation a little easier.
In my free time, I enjoy being outside with my amazing veterinarian wife, my precocious toy poodle, and my lazy old rescue mutt. You can usually find us beside the pool with family, on a hike by the nearest waterfall, or at our home in the woods, relaxing and enjoying the peace and calm of being together.
About Dr. Jennifer Walters
I had many incredible professors and doctors throughout veterinary school, but the most important lesson I learned came from a twelve-week old golden retriever puppy named Disney. He was the happiest, liveliest, most adorable puppy and I was the envy of the cardiology unit when he became my patient.
Disney's parents had brought him to the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine because when he got really excited, his airway would close up, and he would gasp for air until he passed out. I witnessed this several times during his stay with us, and I had to snatch Disney up and race to the ICU for oxygen. It was terrifying. After several tests, we determined that there was no treatment for Disney's condition. His parents were heartbroken, as were my resident advisor and I. Because the episodes were unpredictable and horrible for everyone, including Disney, his parents made the hardest decision they had ever had to make- to euthanize their puppy.
I listened as my resident advisor explained the process to them. Then we left the room to allow them some time together. My resident used this time to explain the process to me, as well. He said that while the actual procedure was straightforward, helping people through their grief was harder and more important than any cardiology lesson he could teach me. We needed to let Disney's parents set the pace and help them feel comfortable with their decision. In the end, we laughed at silly Disney stories and cried over the unfairness of it all. They hugged us and thanked us.
This is my saddest, most beautiful veterinary school memory and I carry it with me to every appointment. After fifteen years of practicing, I never tire of laughing and crying with families and hearing stories of their beloved pets. I am here to answer all your questions, guide you through this difficult process, and assure you that your decision is one of kindness and love.
About Dr. Jodie Joseph
I grew up in Wayne, New Jersey, yet spent every holiday season in Charlotte, North Carolina. As an 8-year-old, I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian after our family Labrador was euthanized. Nukie was 15, and my parents included me in every step, from making the decision that it was time, to being present for the euthanasia, to arranging her aftercare. I saw the kindness and humanity that Nukie was finally at peace, and wanted to help other pets pass with dignity.
Prior to veterinary school, I had extensive training in canine behavior, service dog handling, and integrative medicine. I see my patients as a whole mind, body, and spirit. I love to work with behaviorally challenged animals to provide a smooth and kind transition in a safe, loving space. While in school, I had the pleasure to serve as a caregiver for geriatric pups, Corie and Daisy. They strongly influenced my decision to choose this career path.
I obtained my veterinary degree from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine and my certification to practice small animal acupuncture from the Chi Institute. I then pursued my interest in oncology by surviving various medical and radiation oncology internships. However, my passion for connecting with pets and their people led me to take an emergency position, and I felt there that I was fulfilling my purpose by supporting clients and their pets through difficult life-or-death decision-making.
I eagerly accepted a position with Lap of Love, since our philosophies so closely align. All roads eventually lead to palliative treatment, hospice care, and euthanasia, and I consider being welcomed into someone's home to support a furry family member through these times an honor. It is a gift to share in those final delicate moments and the array of emotions that accompany, from telling stories of laughter and joy, to the moments of sorrow and tears, and being authentic, compassionate, empathetic, and nonjudgmental every step of the way. I hope to make that last day as kind, peaceful, and ideal as possible, for both the pet and their family.
About Dr. Dane Buenten
From a young age, I always enjoyed the companionship of multiple pets, including cats, dogs, mice, and birds, while growing up in Eastern Long Island, New York. I believe people should strive to be worthy of the unique bond and love that pets have for their owners.
While attending Fredonia University in New York, I became fascinated with the immune system’s complexity, and I graduated with a degree in molecular genetics and a chemistry minor. I then attended Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, and completed my clinical year at Colorado State University. Following graduation, I practiced general and emergency medicine for four years in Lewes, Delaware and Fort Mill, South Carolina. I love being a veterinarian because it allows me to help pets and people. To be able to improve someone's life, or aid someone in a time of need, is very rewarding.
I enjoy all aspects of veterinary medicine, particularly end-of-life care, internal medicine, immunology, and clinical pathology. During my time in practice, I fostered a passion for keeping my patients’ best interests at heart. I connected with the idea of understanding my patients’ quality of life and working to maintain or improve it. That passion brought me to Lap of Love.
I recently lost my own pet, Ringo, to lymphoma. It was a truly eye-opening and sobering experience to be on the other side of the table. I vowed to make Ringo’s passing meaningful by making his end-of-life care as compassionate and heartfelt as possible.
I moved to the Charlotte area to be with family and I enjoy the southern hospitality the Carolinas are known for. I currently reside in Rock Hill, South Carolina with my two handsome rescue cats, Billy and Emmitt.
Pronouns: He / Him
About Dr. Rachel Abrams
I was born in Boston and moved to the small, rural town of Sudbury, Massachusetts at the age of 9. Both my parents were animal lovers, so as they say in the south, “I come by it honestly.” Growing up, we had guinea pigs, a snake, turtles, parakeets, cats, dogs, and, of course, horses. We eventually moved to a larger property where our horses could be “at home” instead of having to board them. In addition to my love for animals, I have always had an affinity for science and teaching, and I never considered a career other than becoming a veterinarian.
I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of New Hampshire. After graduating, I spent four years in Dover, New Hampshire working at veterinary hospitals and a boarding kennel, before completing veterinary school at the University of Florida. I fell in love with North Carolina after visiting a friend in Carey and have lived in Charlotte since 2003.
Most people think being a veterinarian is all about helping animals. While that is a large part, it is also about helping people. One of my mentors described being a veterinarian as “ helping people with pet problems,” and I couldn't agree more. Being a veterinarian has enabled me to help people and pets in so many different ways. I have worked as a general practitioner, an emergency veterinarian, a professional services veterinarian for a pharmaceutical company, and was the Practice Certification Manager at Fear Free.
Through my role at Lap of Love, I have the opportunity to guide pet parents through one of the most important—and difficult—milestones in their relationship with their beloved pets. Saying goodbye in the comfort of one's home is inherently less stressful for families and their beloved pets. Deciding to let a pet go is never easy, even when you know it's time, and I consider it an honor to help families navigate this process.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my partner, Scott, our four cats and my senior pony. I also enjoy reading, hiking, and, every now and then, watching a movie.
Pronouns: She/HerAbout Dr. Amelia Nuwer
I was born and raised on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Growing up, we had a plethora of pets, including doves, finches, iguanas, snakes, chickens, dogs, cats, fish, aquatic frogs, a goat, and a hedgehog. My sister and I spent our summers trapping feral cats, providing the necessary care, and finding them forever homes.
I started work in a local veterinary hospital when I was 13 and have worked in the field ever since. Helping animals in their time of need is my passion, and becoming a veterinarian felt like my destiny.
I went to the University of Alabama, where I majored in biology and minored in art. I then attended veterinary school at Auburn University and attained my Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2015.
After graduating, I spent 10 years working in specialty practice, academia, and private practice as an emergency veterinarian. My favorite parts of emergency medicine are stabilizing critical cases and the excitement of an unpredictable day. I especially enjoy helping people and pets when they need it most.
Working as an emergency veterinarian allowed me to gain experience in almost every aspect of veterinary medicine, including end-of-life and hospice care. A pet’s health can change rapidly and unexpectedly and being able to provide relief and comfort during those challenging times is an honor.
In my time away from work, I enjoy playing the piano, hiking, gardening, painting, and traveling.
About Dr. Mark Roberts
I spent the first half of my childhood in Indianapolis and the second half in the small town of Lenexa, Kansas. I love animals and have always been fascinated with science, so combining the two naturally led me to veterinary medicine.
During college, I was torn between human medicine and veterinary medicine until I began working for an animal hospital. While doing weekend kennel duties and spending time with pets, I realized I had a calling to become a veterinarian.
I earned bachelor's degrees in biology and business administration, and an MBA from the University of Kansas. I then graduated with my veterinary degree from the University of Florida. After graduation, I was selected to complete a 15-month rotating small animal medicine and surgery internship at the prestigious Angell Memorial Animal Hospital in Boston.
Following graduation, I opened several small animal hospitals in Kansas, Missouri, Virginia, West Virginia, and Florida. I have always been interested in geriatric wellness and end-of-life hospice care, especially the art of euthanasia and providing an honorable and peaceful goodbye. As an early practice owner in the late 1990s, I was one of the first in the area to offer senior wellness plans, pain and quality-of-life assessments, and in-home euthanasia services.
In 1997, my beloved Lab, Bo, who accompanied me on many hikes and Jeep rides, developed cancer that quickly spread to his lungs. After realizing there was nothing more I could do for Bo, we took one last Jeep ride. In the crisp mountain air of a beautiful spring morning, Bo went to sleep while enjoying the sunshine and his favorite peanut butter cookies. On that day, Bo taught me that we all deserve the best life—and death—possible. I immediately implemented the “Bo effect” into my daily practice, and I am honored to provide end-of-life services to pets and their families to make a difficult situation a little easier.
In my free time, I enjoy being outside with my amazing veterinarian wife, my precocious toy poodle, and my lazy old rescue mutt. You can usually find us beside the pool with family, on a hike by the nearest waterfall, or at our home in the woods, relaxing and enjoying the peace and calm of being together.
About Dr. Jennifer Walters
I had many incredible professors and doctors throughout veterinary school, but the most important lesson I learned came from a twelve-week old golden retriever puppy named Disney. He was the happiest, liveliest, most adorable puppy and I was the envy of the cardiology unit when he became my patient.
Disney's parents had brought him to the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine because when he got really excited, his airway would close up, and he would gasp for air until he passed out. I witnessed this several times during his stay with us, and I had to snatch Disney up and race to the ICU for oxygen. It was terrifying. After several tests, we determined that there was no treatment for Disney's condition. His parents were heartbroken, as were my resident advisor and I. Because the episodes were unpredictable and horrible for everyone, including Disney, his parents made the hardest decision they had ever had to make- to euthanize their puppy.
I listened as my resident advisor explained the process to them. Then we left the room to allow them some time together. My resident used this time to explain the process to me, as well. He said that while the actual procedure was straightforward, helping people through their grief was harder and more important than any cardiology lesson he could teach me. We needed to let Disney's parents set the pace and help them feel comfortable with their decision. In the end, we laughed at silly Disney stories and cried over the unfairness of it all. They hugged us and thanked us.
This is my saddest, most beautiful veterinary school memory and I carry it with me to every appointment. After fifteen years of practicing, I never tire of laughing and crying with families and hearing stories of their beloved pets. I am here to answer all your questions, guide you through this difficult process, and assure you that your decision is one of kindness and love.
About Dr. Jodie Joseph
I grew up in Wayne, New Jersey, yet spent every holiday season in Charlotte, North Carolina. As an 8-year-old, I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian after our family Labrador was euthanized. Nukie was 15, and my parents included me in every step, from making the decision that it was time, to being present for the euthanasia, to arranging her aftercare. I saw the kindness and humanity that Nukie was finally at peace, and wanted to help other pets pass with dignity.
Prior to veterinary school, I had extensive training in canine behavior, service dog handling, and integrative medicine. I see my patients as a whole mind, body, and spirit. I love to work with behaviorally challenged animals to provide a smooth and kind transition in a safe, loving space. While in school, I had the pleasure to serve as a caregiver for geriatric pups, Corie and Daisy. They strongly influenced my decision to choose this career path.
I obtained my veterinary degree from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine and my certification to practice small animal acupuncture from the Chi Institute. I then pursued my interest in oncology by surviving various medical and radiation oncology internships. However, my passion for connecting with pets and their people led me to take an emergency position, and I felt there that I was fulfilling my purpose by supporting clients and their pets through difficult life-or-death decision-making.
I eagerly accepted a position with Lap of Love, since our philosophies so closely align. All roads eventually lead to palliative treatment, hospice care, and euthanasia, and I consider being welcomed into someone's home to support a furry family member through these times an honor. It is a gift to share in those final delicate moments and the array of emotions that accompany, from telling stories of laughter and joy, to the moments of sorrow and tears, and being authentic, compassionate, empathetic, and nonjudgmental every step of the way. I hope to make that last day as kind, peaceful, and ideal as possible, for both the pet and their family.
About Dr. Dane Buenten
From a young age, I always enjoyed the companionship of multiple pets, including cats, dogs, mice, and birds, while growing up in Eastern Long Island, New York. I believe people should strive to be worthy of the unique bond and love that pets have for their owners.
While attending Fredonia University in New York, I became fascinated with the immune system’s complexity, and I graduated with a degree in molecular genetics and a chemistry minor. I then attended Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, and completed my clinical year at Colorado State University. Following graduation, I practiced general and emergency medicine for four years in Lewes, Delaware and Fort Mill, South Carolina. I love being a veterinarian because it allows me to help pets and people. To be able to improve someone's life, or aid someone in a time of need, is very rewarding.
I enjoy all aspects of veterinary medicine, particularly end-of-life care, internal medicine, immunology, and clinical pathology. During my time in practice, I fostered a passion for keeping my patients’ best interests at heart. I connected with the idea of understanding my patients’ quality of life and working to maintain or improve it. That passion brought me to Lap of Love.
I recently lost my own pet, Ringo, to lymphoma. It was a truly eye-opening and sobering experience to be on the other side of the table. I vowed to make Ringo’s passing meaningful by making his end-of-life care as compassionate and heartfelt as possible.
I moved to the Charlotte area to be with family and I enjoy the southern hospitality the Carolinas are known for. I currently reside in Rock Hill, South Carolina with my two handsome rescue cats, Billy and Emmitt.
Pronouns: He / Him
About Dr. Rachel Abrams
I was born in Boston and moved to the small, rural town of Sudbury, Massachusetts at the age of 9. Both my parents were animal lovers, so as they say in the south, “I come by it honestly.” Growing up, we had guinea pigs, a snake, turtles, parakeets, cats, dogs, and, of course, horses. We eventually moved to a larger property where our horses could be “at home” instead of having to board them. In addition to my love for animals, I have always had an affinity for science and teaching, and I never considered a career other than becoming a veterinarian.
I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of New Hampshire. After graduating, I spent four years in Dover, New Hampshire working at veterinary hospitals and a boarding kennel, before completing veterinary school at the University of Florida. I fell in love with North Carolina after visiting a friend in Carey and have lived in Charlotte since 2003.
Most people think being a veterinarian is all about helping animals. While that is a large part, it is also about helping people. One of my mentors described being a veterinarian as “ helping people with pet problems,” and I couldn't agree more. Being a veterinarian has enabled me to help people and pets in so many different ways. I have worked as a general practitioner, an emergency veterinarian, a professional services veterinarian for a pharmaceutical company, and was the Practice Certification Manager at Fear Free.
Through my role at Lap of Love, I have the opportunity to guide pet parents through one of the most important—and difficult—milestones in their relationship with their beloved pets. Saying goodbye in the comfort of one's home is inherently less stressful for families and their beloved pets. Deciding to let a pet go is never easy, even when you know it's time, and I consider it an honor to help families navigate this process.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my partner, Scott, our four cats and my senior pony. I also enjoy reading, hiking, and, every now and then, watching a movie.
Pronouns: She/HerAbout Dr. Amelia Nuwer
I was born and raised on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Growing up, we had a plethora of pets, including doves, finches, iguanas, snakes, chickens, dogs, cats, fish, aquatic frogs, a goat, and a hedgehog. My sister and I spent our summers trapping feral cats, providing the necessary care, and finding them forever homes.
I started work in a local veterinary hospital when I was 13 and have worked in the field ever since. Helping animals in their time of need is my passion, and becoming a veterinarian felt like my destiny.
I went to the University of Alabama, where I majored in biology and minored in art. I then attended veterinary school at Auburn University and attained my Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2015.
After graduating, I spent 10 years working in specialty practice, academia, and private practice as an emergency veterinarian. My favorite parts of emergency medicine are stabilizing critical cases and the excitement of an unpredictable day. I especially enjoy helping people and pets when they need it most.
Working as an emergency veterinarian allowed me to gain experience in almost every aspect of veterinary medicine, including end-of-life and hospice care. A pet’s health can change rapidly and unexpectedly and being able to provide relief and comfort during those challenging times is an honor.
In my time away from work, I enjoy playing the piano, hiking, gardening, painting, and traveling.
About Dr. Mark Roberts
I spent the first half of my childhood in Indianapolis and the second half in the small town of Lenexa, Kansas. I love animals and have always been fascinated with science, so combining the two naturally led me to veterinary medicine.
During college, I was torn between human medicine and veterinary medicine until I began working for an animal hospital. While doing weekend kennel duties and spending time with pets, I realized I had a calling to become a veterinarian.
I earned bachelor's degrees in biology and business administration, and an MBA from the University of Kansas. I then graduated with my veterinary degree from the University of Florida. After graduation, I was selected to complete a 15-month rotating small animal medicine and surgery internship at the prestigious Angell Memorial Animal Hospital in Boston.
Following graduation, I opened several small animal hospitals in Kansas, Missouri, Virginia, West Virginia, and Florida. I have always been interested in geriatric wellness and end-of-life hospice care, especially the art of euthanasia and providing an honorable and peaceful goodbye. As an early practice owner in the late 1990s, I was one of the first in the area to offer senior wellness plans, pain and quality-of-life assessments, and in-home euthanasia services.
In 1997, my beloved Lab, Bo, who accompanied me on many hikes and Jeep rides, developed cancer that quickly spread to his lungs. After realizing there was nothing more I could do for Bo, we took one last Jeep ride. In the crisp mountain air of a beautiful spring morning, Bo went to sleep while enjoying the sunshine and his favorite peanut butter cookies. On that day, Bo taught me that we all deserve the best life—and death—possible. I immediately implemented the “Bo effect” into my daily practice, and I am honored to provide end-of-life services to pets and their families to make a difficult situation a little easier.
In my free time, I enjoy being outside with my amazing veterinarian wife, my precocious toy poodle, and my lazy old rescue mutt. You can usually find us beside the pool with family, on a hike by the nearest waterfall, or at our home in the woods, relaxing and enjoying the peace and calm of being together.