I grew up in Maple Plain, Minnesota, which is a small town about 40 minutes outside Minneapolis. My parents have a hobby farm, and I was fortunate to grow up with horses, chickens, dogs, cats, rabbits, and even a turtle. I’ve always loved animals and cherished the special human-animal bond we share. I also have always loved science and solving problems.

I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington, and during that time, I also studied abroad at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. I then moved back to Minneapolis and completed veterinary school at the University of Minnesota.

As a small animal general practitioner, I enjoy client education, preventive medicine, dentistry, and dermatology, and I also enjoy geriatric pet and end-of-life care.

Unfortunately, I have had to say goodbye to many pets during my life. Growing up on a hobby farm, my parents taught me that experiencing the end of a pet’s life is part of caring for them. We owe it to our pets, who have given us so much love, to help them pass peacefully. Before I was a veterinarian, Lap of Love helped my family say goodbye to one of our dogs, Lacey, and it was such a special experience for her to pass at home where she was most comfortableLosing a pet is extremely difficult. It never gets easier and is the hardest part of having pets, but I truly feel that helping them pass peacefully is a gift. I find it rewarding to be able to support people during such a difficult time and I try to make this sad experience as peaceful as possible for the pet and their family.

In my spare time, I enjoy reading mystery novels, spending time with my family and dog, being outside, baking and cooking, and going out to new restaurants with friends.