Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice & In-Home Euthanasia

I was born and raised in Somerset, Kentucky and spent many summers boating and skiing on Lake Cumberland. As a kid, I tried to help every injured bird or squirrel, and I wanted to adopt every stray animal in town. When I was 9 years old, my pet guinea pig became sick, and I vividly remember bringing him to our family veterinarian, who worked hard to determine what was wrong. The veterinarian was not a guinea pig expert, so he reached out to many of his colleagues and was determined to find the answers. My guinea pig passed away, but that veterinarian was so caring and compassionate while I grieved as a young girl who had just lost her pet. That experience had a deep impact on me, and I can’t remember wanting to be anything but a veterinarian after that. 

I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Louisville and attended veterinary school in Ireland at the University College Dublin. After receiving my veterinary degree, I worked as a small animal emergency veterinarian before transitioning into general practice. I love treating all animals but have a special affinity for senior pets. There is something so special about them and you can just see the wisdom in their eyes. 

I have experienced losing many pets over the years, including my “heart dog,” Josie, who developed inoperable cancer. She was my first real hospice case, and I learned so much from her—most importantly how and when to say goodbye and the understanding that it looks different for every pet and their family. Loss is inevitable, but that doesn’t make it any less difficult. Losing a pet can be overwhelming, sad, and scary, and I try to make sure the memories of the loss don't overshadow the memories of the life shared, while honoring that special bond between a pet and their family. 

In my free time I love to read, camp, hike, watch movies—my family enjoys watching all the Marvel movies and shows together—and crochet.