In-Home Pet Euthanasia in East Bay & Surrounding Areas

I grew up in Federal Way, Washington, which is about 30 minutes south of Seattle. Although I love the green landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, California's sunny skies called to me. From the time I was born, there were always cats in our home. We later added a bird, fish, and a dog. These early connections ignited in me a passion for animals, and led me to want a career in veterinary medicine. For a 5th grade art project about my future career, I drew a picture of myself taking care of an elephant's foot. Although I have yet to care for an elephant, I did help care for grizzly bears and a baby tiger during veterinary school!

After earning my undergraduate degree in biology, with a minor in psychology, from Stanford University, I went to Washington State University for veterinary school. Following graduation, I worked at a small animal general practice. I enjoy preventive care and helping owners learn how to care for their pets. Building relationships with pet owners, and supporting them when they need guidance is my favorite part of being a veterinarian. I especially enjoy seeing the human-animal bond in action everyday.

The decision to say goodbye to my childhood dog was difficult. But, in the end, I knew euthanasia was the compassionate choice because her quality of life had declined to an unacceptable point. Letting her go gently was honoring the life she had lived. Making end-of-life decisions can make pet owners doubt their judgement, so being there as a kind and knowledgeable guide feels like the best way I can make the process less stressful. 

Outside of veterinary medicine, I love hiking, cooking, and taking trips to the beach. 

I am a California native, and began my career in veterinary medicine as a large animal veterinary assistant during my senior year of high school. After working for more than 15 years in small animal practices, as well as in exotic animal, emergency, and shelter medicine, I decided to go back to school to earn my doctorate in veterinary medicine. 

I graduated from Humboldt State University with a bachelor's degree in biology, focusing on cellular and molecular biology. I wanted to spread my wings and study abroad during veterinary school, so I attended Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in St. Kitts. After finishing the didactic portion of the degree, I spent my clinical year at Purdue University. I recently returned to California to be with my partner and our two spoiled pups. 

In addition to having strong interests in epidemiology and emergency medicine, I have a passion for helping families with terminally ill pets. I feel strongly about making the end-of-life transition as peacefully as possible, and I joined Lap of Love to provide families and patients with quality end-of-life care.