I grew up in the Northeast, and spent most of my summers in the beautiful Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York. I loved to swim, walk, pick wild blueberries with my grandmother, and beg my aunt to let me take her little dog on yet another walk. My grandfather taught me how to fish and build a campfire, and the importance of being honest and true. I miss them both with all my heart.

I decided to become a veterinarian on September 11, 2001. When the twin towers fell, I was living in Corning, New York—not too close, but not far enough away to avoid being touched by this tragedy. It was a turning point for me. I decided to leave an unsatisfying career and chase what made me truly happy. A life-long love of animals and nature, a penchant for science, and great mentors led me to veterinary medicine. The decision woke me up, and I started loving life again. Twenty-seven years after obtaining a bachelor’s degree from Millersville University in Pennsylvania, I earned my veterinary degree from Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, graduating magna cum laude.

My veterinary career has focused on small animal general practice. My first position was at a practice that saw their own emergencies, which meant I was often on call. The past 11 years, prior to joining Lap of Love, I worked at a corporate veterinary practice.

I lost my first dog, Cosmoe, to a meningioma, which is a tumor of the central nervous system’s lining. Cosmoe’s symptoms were subtle at first, but then progressed rapidly. She was 16 years old, and I knew her prognosis was poor. For a short time, I stayed at home and held her, since that was what made her most comfortable. I made the decision to bring her in to my hospital and have a colleague perform the euthanasia. I was the only person she still recognized, and I am comforted to know I was the last person she saw, heard, and smelled—her hound dog nose worked to the very end. Since that day, geriatric pets and their caretakers hold a special place in my heart. I feel closest to families during a pet’s last appointment. Having puppies and kittens is great, but those are happy, easy times. When things are difficult, the news is grim, or an uncomfortable truth needs to be spoken— that's where I am needed. I enjoy helping pet owners do the right thing, and alleviating any fear or guilt they have. To be the trusted provider of that care is most important to me.

When I am not working, I enjoy gardening, hiking, camping, freediving, birdwatching, travel, and cheering on my Auburn Tigers—War Eagle!

Pronouns: She/Her

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