I grew up in Louisiana in a small town called Haughton, where my three siblings and I always had something to do or somewhere to explore. I’ve always known I would become a veterinarian. In childhood, when things were difficult, my dog would rest her forehead on my chest. I knew if animals were so sensitive to others’ suffering, I could be sensitive to their suffering, as well. When I was old enough, I became a veterinary assistant at the local animal clinic.

Working while I was in school helped me learn the science as well as the social skills needed to provide space for healing. I spent three years as an undergrad at Louisiana State University in Shreveport and applied to grad school at Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine (LSU-SVM) in Baton Rouge before receiving my veterinary doctorate in 2016.

General practice satisfies my soul's craving for intimate connections. Having the chance to walk pet owners through their pet’s process so they understand is so special. I began with full-time work and after three years became relief-based, traveling all over California for work. Different environments provided the well-roundedness I wanted to continue my journey to Lap of Love.

I wasn’t present when I lost my first pet. I was abroad on a veterinary trip to Rwanda when my little white terrier was hit by a car. I was devastated that I couldn’t be present to ensure my dog didn’t suffer during the passing. After years of giving people what I was not given, I have learned that we can ensure, as much as possible, that everyone involved in the experience of saying goodbye finds closure.

As a healer, I have never experienced such unconditional love, and I believe protecting love is at the core of what we do. To be the person who holds the door open for another means so much to me. We never know the burdens that each person carries and helping to soften life in any way is noble. I do this work because I have love in my heart.

Outside work, I love to camp, hike, and paddleboard. My dogs and cat all come, and we take turns leading the way. When I'm not moving, I enjoy the stillness of meditation, and I also enjoy exercises like yoga and running when I can incorporate mindfulness.