In-Home Pet Euthanasia in Denver & Surrounding Areas

Unlike many of my colleagues, I came to veterinary medicine through a slightly less traditional route. Growing up in rural Kansas, I dreamt of opening a non-profit shelter for homeless pets, but I was absolutely convinced that I wouldn’t be able to handle the medical aspects of such a facility. Then, at 18 years of age I took a rather random job as a kennel technician at a local veterinary clinic, and I was instantly hooked. The satisfaction of improving an animal’s quality of life far outweighed my fears that they were suddenly inconsequential, and I finally knew what I wanted to be when I grew up.  

During my veterinary studies at Colorado State University, I was a member of the pet hospice club and gained invaluable experience in how to help both owners and their pets through some of the most difficult life stages. Around the same time, I came home for Christmas vacation and found that it was time to help my uncle and grandmother through the loss of their beloved Labrador, Chance. Our local veterinarian was able to visit the farm for this last appointment, and Chance’s final moments were spent out in the sun, in his yard, on his blanket, and surrounded by everyone who loved him. Through the grief, the encompassing sense of relief, love, and family bonding is what I carry with me to this day.

After graduating from the veterinary program at Colorado State University, I worked in a variety of medical settings; from low-income clinics to shelters to general practice, one thing remained constant - I've always loved geriatric medicine. It is an honor to help make a beloved pet’s last years and end of life as peaceful, joyful, and pain-free as possible. Ultimately, I've found a career in my passion and understand the privilege, trust, and vulnerability that comes with preserving the human animal bond during these final moments.

I am a native of Golden, Colorado and have always been a dog person—although cats are great too! While attending college at Regis University in Denver, I got my start in veterinary medicine by volunteering in the surgery department at a local animal shelter. Working with dogs is rewarding in so many ways, and I was inspired by the level of trust dogs place in those who care for them—even in new and stressful environments. My next step was Kansas State’s College of Veterinary Medicine. 

After spending my first post-graduate year pursuing animal welfare advocacy and overseeing livestock euthanasia in a public health position in the Pacific Northwest, I transitioned to canine rehabilitation work, directing medical care at a canine rehabilitation practice. In this role I was able to work closely with dogs and return to my home state. Working with dogs and cats—especially geriatric pets—to improve their mobility and quality of life was a true privilege. Caring for companion animals becomes much more demanding toward the end of life, and I have found that family members of all species are capable of providing exceptional care to their pets. 

I have worked alongside a number of physical therapists, veterinarians, and veterinary technicians in the field of rehabilitation, and have greatly enjoyed the collaborative nature of those relationships. I am excited to now be part of a team of caring veterinarians and hospice professionals to focus on caring for elderly companion animals. I am also grateful to collaborate with amazing clients as some of the most important decisions are made for their precious dogs and cats. I am honored by the opportunity to assist in ensuring comfort and peace to beloved pets.

In my free time, I enjoy the outdoors, including playing racquet sports, losing to my older brother in golf, and getting beaten in basketball by my younger brother.

My father was in the military, so we moved every two to three years. We lived as far east as Maine and as far west as Hawaii. I loved the experiences I gained, and moving around ultimately led me to Colorado, which is my absolute favorite state. 

I was one of those 5-year-olds who latched on to wanting to become a veterinarian and never let go. The profession fit my desire to keep regular company with creatures I adored while fulfilling the drive to constantly learn and solve problems. 

I earned an associate’s degree from York College in Nebraska, and then transferred to the University of Oklahoma for my bachelors degree. I earned my doctorate degree from Oklahoma State University. 

I found my niche in general practice 20 years ago. It is fulfilling and empowering to walk alongside pet owners from the first days of puppyhood to the rainbow bridge. I enjoy helping them understand what is going on at different life stages so they can make the best decisions about how to care for their pet. I also love general soft tissue and oral surgery. Adding a dedicated time for hospice and compassionate euthanasia will allow me to more completely provide care for the full life of the pet. 

When I was a teenager, my beloved dog Petey was euthanized without our family present. Circumstances dictated that we weren't able to be with him and it tore up my heart. I would like every pet who is facing their last moments to be in a loving and comfortable environment surrounded by the people they love. I see compassionate euthanasia as a mercy for pets who are facing illness or decline, and their families. It is very fulfilling to me to provide circumstances where owners can safely grieve and provide the most gentle release from this life for their pets.

I love to read and hike. Devouring a good book in a few days time or conquering a trail are both rejuvenating and invigorating to me in their own ways.

I grew up in East Cobb, Georgia, which is part of the sprawling north Atlanta suburbs. I have always had a passion for nature and wildlife, and as I grew older, I developed a scientific mind. My mother was in a really bad boating accident when I was in my early teens, and during her recovery, I became fascinated by medicine and discovered that I am a skilled caregiver. 

I received a bachelor’s degree in biology but was unsure how to use it. When I put together my skills and passions, it became clear that pursuing a career in veterinary medicine was the best way to combine science, animals, and medicine. I spent the next two years working different jobs in the field, and I fell in love. I went to the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, and worked as a small animal veterinarian after graduating. 

I enjoy a large variety of medicine, but I particularly like neurology and orthopedics. I enjoy being a vet because it allows me to use both my mind and body. Pets are such an important part of families, and I know how stressful it can be to care for them, especially when they are sick. I enjoy being able to help families care for their pets, so they can focus on enjoying the human-animal bond instead of worrying about health issues.

I have had many pets throughout my life. Growing up, we had family cats and dogs as well as foster dogs. It was during this time that I really learned how to read and communicate with animals. I currently have a cat named Calvin and a dog named Hobbes. I think about them every time I care for a pet, and I try to treat every pet the way I would want my pets treated. 

I think that in-home euthanasia can be an amazing gift, and I consider it an honor that families allow me to share such an intimate and sad time in their lives. Being able to ease pain—for the suffering animal and their emotionally distressed family—brings me joy. My goal is to help families celebrate their pet’s life more than grieve their transition.

Outside of work, I am a classic Coloradoan. I enjoy snowboarding, hiking, biking, and camping—and, of course, adventures with Calvin (who is leash-trained) and Hobbes. When I am stuck inside, I enjoy movies, books, board games, and cooking.