In-Home Pet Euthanasia in Cleveland & Surrounding Area

I was the kid that always wanted to be a vet. When my dad finally allowed us to get two kittens, I did everything I could to pamper them. During middle school, I shadowed at a local veterinary clinic to get a better understanding for what the profession was all about. It still makes me laugh to read through the little notebook I carried around filled with misspelled medical terms. I also volunteered at the Cleveland Metroparks zoo all four years of high school. In this role I worked with various “education animals," while teaching visitors about them. It was then that I realized my love for working with the public as well as being an advocate for animals.

After graduating high school, I attended Miami University in Oxford, Ohio due to their well established pre-vet program. There I obtained a Bachelor's degree in Zoology with a minor in Community-Based Leadership. Afterwards, I transitioned to The Ohio State University for vet school. Go Bucks!

Like many, I decided to begin my veterinary career in general practice. Throughout this time I felt strongly about utilizing fear-free techniques to make visiting the office a happy experience for my patients. Many of their stressors arise just from being in a new setting, with lots of other pets, people, noises, and smells. Mitigating these stressors on a daily basis helped me recognize how beneficial at-home care, especially end of life care, really is. I believe humane euthanasia is the final act of kindness that we can show our pets, and view it as a sincere honor to give each pet a dignified transition and their family the associated support. 

Outside of my work in veterinary medicine, I enjoy staying active and being outside (as much as the Cleveland weather permits). My favorite activities include camping, rollerblading, biking, and hiking in the Metroparks. I also love visiting art festivals, going out for ice cream, and trying new restaurants.

I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, and although I am a city girl, I loved growing up near a Great Lake, and enjoy driving out to the country to experience nature and the outdoors. Fortunately, Ohio offers both! 

I was always in tune with my childhood pets, and I was the first to notice if they needed medical attention. However, I did not make the decision to become a veterinarian until I attended college at Cleveland State University. After obtaining my veterinary degree from Ohio State University, I joined a small animal general medicine practice in the Cleveland area. I have a passion for wellness and preventive care, and high-quality, high-volume spay and neuter (HQHVSN) services. I have realized, however, that one of my favorite parts of veterinary medicine is the ability to give pets a peaceful passing. This is the aspect clients most appreciate, and I find most rewarding. 

My current pets are young, but I have experienced the loss of two childhood dogs. One of them developed cancer and passed too soon, and the other was fortunate to live a long, full life. In both situations, I am appreciative that we were able to make the decision to end their lives when we felt comfortable, and in such a peaceful way. 

For all that our pets give us, I think we owe them a peaceful passing. As the alternative may not be as pleasant, the ability to end their suffering in a peaceful and calm way, in the comfort of their own home, is one of the kindest gifts we can give them. 

When I am not working, I enjoy walking, cooking, and relaxing with my family, including my husband and our dogs. 

I grew up in Northeast Ohio surrounded by vineyards, wineries, covered bridges, and farmland. Becoming a veterinarian began as a childhood dream. My mother took care of many cats and dogs, so I grasped the concept of being a caregiver from an early age. I always had a strong bond with animals, and they were therapeutic for me while growing up. 

I earned my undergraduate degree from Lake Erie College in Ohio, and then attended Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. I enjoy being able to help pets and their families navigate the end-of-life process. Animals give so much to us, and it's comforting knowing that I can help them on their journey to the next phase. I also enjoy acupuncture, aromatherapy, and behavior. Since veterinary school, I have practiced small animal medicine and I have become certified in acupuncture. 

I have helped my family through the loss of their beloved pets, and I have lost two pets of my own. I helped most of them transition at home, and though each experience was different, the peace of being surrounded by a loving family was felt by everyone involved. My cat clearly told me that she was ready, although she was having a good day. It was a difficult decision to make, though I was glad I was able to honor her wishes. She was able to lay in her favorite place as she passed  peacefully. Our dog also let us know when it was time, and that we needed to focus on our next chapter of life. 

I feel called to this facet of my career to help comfort families during difficult times. It is a blessing to be able to join families in their homes and help their pets through the end-of-life process, especially for families who would have difficulty bringing their pet into a clinic.

When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, spending time outdoors, and visiting the theater.

I was born and raised in Girard, Ohio, outside of Youngstown. I attended undergraduate school at John Carroll University on an early admittance track to medical school. However, after working in various veterinary settings, I felt called to become a veterinarian instead. I attended veterinary school at Ohio State and then moved to the Cleveland area to work in small animal practice.

As a veterinarian, I love advocating for those who can’t speak for themselves. Animals help us in many ways, and I am honored to care for them. I joined Lap of Love because I feel palliative care and euthanasia are two of the most important services vets provide. We are entrusted with the tremendous responsibility of aiding pets in their final moments, and being able to pass at home is a compassionate and peaceful option for pets and their families.

I recently lost my beloved standard poodle, Molly, to an aggressive tumor. She was loyal, smart, and gentle and loved everyone she met. I had to end her battle, but she passed away at home, surrounded by loved ones. Although heartbroken, I felt peace knowing she was no longer scared or sick. Molly gave me so much, and I was glad to repay her with a dignified passing. Through Lap of Love, I provide that same experience for other pet parents.

In addition to palliative care, I enjoy figuring out complex cases, using Fear Free® techniques, and studying fish medicine. In my personal time, I enjoy hiking, visiting parks, and traveling to new states with my family. I have three kids (one son and two daughters), a standard poodle (Mallo), four cats (Bowie, Bowser, Beaker, and Bella), and two fish tanks that demand much of my time, but I like to read, exercise, try new recipes, and rehab sick betta fish whenever possible.