In-Home Pet Euthanasia in St. Louis & Surrounding Areas

I grew up in Granite City, Illinois and lived there—always with a few cats—until I left for college. I loved school, and especially enjoyed playing the French horn in marching and concert band. I have always loved animals, science, and medicine, and I knew from a young age that I would be a veterinarian. I earned a bachelor’s degree, and then my veterinary degree, from the University of Illinois, where I was in the Marching Illini, and was able to march in the Rosebowl.

My veterinarian husband and I own a veterinary practice, and I have spent most of the last 30 years practicing small animal acute care and emergency medicine. I also spent four years administering radiation therapy at a veterinary cancer center, so the transition to hospice and home euthanasia was a comfortable choice. During my long career in emergency medicine, I have helped countless families during their pets’ euthanasia. My goal is always to guide families through the experience with the compassion and care I would want for my own pets.

My most recent personal euthanasia experience was with my 17-year-old beautiful dilute calico cat, Allie, who was not only diabetic, but also suffered from an aggressive oral tumor. The tumor ultimately caused so much pain that I needed to give up my special bond with her and release her from suffering. A colleague helped me set her free, and her euthanasia did not go as smoothly as I had hoped.  I wish to assist families with this difficult process so they don't look back with regret about their own experience. I also want families to know that sometimes the most loving thing we do for our pets is not done because we are ready, but because they are ready.

I have four daughters, six cats—Sasha, Sassy, Mimi, Alvin, Theodore, and Cheez—and a Havanese named Clove, that keep me busy. I also have two beautiful grandchildren that live three and a half hours away, so I travel frequently to see them. When I have time, I love to scrapbook and cook. I am known for my yummy chocolate chip cookies, which I also love to eat!

Pronouns: She/Her