In-Home Pet Euthanasia in Sacramento & Surrounding Areas

I grew up in a small town on the Arizona/Utah border where I was very involved with 4-H and raising animals.  I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian since I was 7 years old and I obtained my bachelor's degree at Arizona State University. While there, I worked at a zoo and was convinced I wanted a professional career in zoo animal medicine. My time in veterinary school at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine made me realize that small animal companion medicine is where I was meant to be! One of the most important things I learned in veterinary school is that, as a veterinarian, sometimes our job is to relieve suffering and give a peaceful passing when necessary.  I am grateful we’re able to do this for our beloved pet family members.

Throughout my years as a general practitioner in Hanford, California, I enjoyed the care I delivered to my clients but, while I, of course, loved the new puppy appointments, I received the most satisfaction and fulfillment from giving families peace by helping their pets pass with dignity and love. I recently lost 2 of my wonderful dogs, Moose and Brutus.  I was so fortunate to have the opportunity to say goodbye to them at home. They both had the last day that included everything that made their hearts happy.  Their passing was peaceful because both were able to lay on their favorite human’s lap, Moose outside watching the sunset and Brutus on his favorite couch surrounded by all that loved them.   Moose and Brutus gave me one last gift, knowing that Lap of Love is my true calling. Being able to help guide families through this tough time and give pets the same peaceful passing my Brutus and Moose received is an honor and privilege.  

My husband and I have 4 dogs (including a new puppy who is reminding us what trouble makers puppies are!) and 5 chickens.  In my free time, I enjoy camping and hiking with our dogs, Broadway musicals, and laying on the couch reading a good book.

I was born in Atlanta, Georgia and grew up in Kansas City, Missouri, chasing butterflies and catching crawdads in the creek behind my house. My childhood love of science and nature inspired my decision to become a veterinarian, and after high school, I left the Midwest to study biology at Stanford University. I received my veterinary degree from UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine before completing a fellowship in comparative medicine at the University of Washington, where I earned a PhD in molecular and cellular biology. 

My early career focused on science and research. I studied the neurobiology of the brain, behavior, and aging while supporting the care and welfare of animals who help us discover safe therapies and knowledge to improve human and animal health. Now my career focuses on helping families with basic, preventive, and end-of-life care for their pets. I am so grateful for the opportunities being a veterinarian provides for me to support the special relationship between people and animals. 

Throughout my career, I have met many people and animals who have deepened my understanding and commitment to the veterinarian’s oath, which says, “I solemnly swear to use my scientific knowledge and skills for the benefit of society through the protection of animal health and welfare, the prevention and relief of animal suffering, the conservation of animal resources, the promotion of public health, and the advancement of medical knowledge. I will practice my profession conscientiously, with dignity, and in keeping with the principles of veterinary medical ethics." 

Decisions related to how we support aging and death for our loved ones—animal or human— can be difficult, and everyone has their own way of coping with loss. My goal as a Lap of Love veterinarian is to provide families the gift of saying goodbye to their beloved pets in a way that honors and respects their individual needs.

Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my poodle-schnauzer mix, Cali, and my miniature poodle, Bijou.