Meet the veterinarians
About Dr. Melanie Madsen
I grew up in Arlington Heights, Illinois and moved to Tampa, Florida when I was 15. My family lived on the water in Tampa, and the beach became a part of my soul. Since I was young, pets have enhanced my health and wellbeing, while bringing me so much joy. I’ve always felt that it was my destiny to give back to them after all they have given me.
I received my bachelor’s degree in chemistry with a minor in mathematics from the University of Tampa before attending Ross University for veterinary school and North Carolina State College for my clinical training.
I enjoy all facets of veterinary medicine, but after completing a small animal rotating internship and my postdoctoral work in clinical pharmacology, I discovered a passion for drug pathophysiology, since it can be incorporated into every aspect of a pet’s life to improve their quality of life.
Other experiences that have molded me into the veterinarian I am today include my time volunteering at a nursing home and working as a medical coordinator for an animal rescue in St. Kitts during veterinary school, which gave me a worldwide perspective on animal welfare.
Losing a pet feels like losing a piece of your heart, knowing that life will never be the same without them. I have lost many pets throughout my life, and it never gets easier. Every pet deserves to feel love, comfort, and happiness during their final moments and to be treated with the utmost respect, and this is what I strive to provide for my clients. The greatest accomplishment for me as a veterinarian and human is the ability to make the end-of-life transition as peaceful as possible for pets and their families.
When I’m not working, I enjoy taking long walks with my dog, any type of outdoor activity—going to the beach, boating, hiking, gardening—and numerous crafts, including macrame, sewing, painting, drawing, puzzles, and home improvement.
About Dr. Sydney Brehm
I grew up in rural north Georgia on a 14-acre family farm where we raised cows, chickens, hogs, goats, and even peacocks. For a child who loved animals, it was paradise! My family is a funny mix of teachers and nurses, so I feel as though I was born with a medical calling and a desire to help people. Family dinners where my mom and my aunt would regale us with the latest graphic medical dramas they had encountered, while grossing out my cousins, were fascinating to me. It became obvious that veterinary medicine was my calling from a very young age.
After graduating from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, I was a general practitioner in a busy companion animal clinic. My older patients really stole my heart. Give me a 12 year old chocolate lab quietly thumping her tail on the floor while she rolls over for belly rubs, or a 15 year old tabby cat who just wants to hang out in your lap and purr most of the day, and I melt. After we lost our 13-year-old dobie to a chronic disease in 2018, my passion for helping older pets was really cemented. Even as a veterinarian, what we went through trying to manage her was, at times, scary and overwhelming. Our sweet girl was able to have a peaceful passing at home and I feel it is truly my purpose to provide the type of serenity that we got to experience.
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
About Dr. Erin Brown
I started my humble beginnings in Avondale Estates, GA, but mostly grew up in Savannah, GA. My love of biology and animals started young and progressively developed in high school, while taking AP Biology. It wasn't long after that I decided I wanted to become a veterinarian. My family has always been incredibly supportive by looking the other way when I brought in pet rabbits, toads, and a “foster” beagle that soon became ours. Fast forward, and I now live with my husband, our now senior beagle Rocky, and a chubby shih tzu named Crosby.
During my education, I was first a Pirate with my undergraduate degree at Armstrong State University, then later became a Buckeye as I graduated from The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine. After graduation, I transitioned to general practice in southern Indiana and eventually Decatur, GA. It was during this time that I discovered my true passion for the human-animal bond and honoring that relationship during end-of-life care. I truly enjoy connecting with families during such a delicate time and learning about the companionship they've had with their furry loved ones.
It is a great honor to now commit my career solely to end-of-life care by guiding families in the Atlanta area with their pets’ hospice care and final treatment.
Pronouns: She/Her
About Dr. Kyndel Lann
I grew up in Payson, Arizona, which is a small town surrounded by forests. I have always been an avid animal lover, and enjoyed assisting at our family ranch or helping out at the local veterinary clinic. Truthfully, as a child I never thought about being a veterinarian; I just assumed everyone loved animals as much as I did.
When I had almost finished my bachelor’s degree, I was struggling to decide on a career path. I come from a family of nurses and paramedics, though I thought I wanted to try something different than medicine. Turns out, I found that I enjoyed health sciences too much to stay away. Veterinary medicine allowed me to combine my love for animals and science, and the choice became clear. Veterinary school is not easy to get into, especially if you decide at the last minute like I did. I may have developed a few extra grey hairs and lost a lot of sleep along the way, but I did it! And, I am so happy that I did.
I received my bachelor's degree from Grand Canyon University and my doctorate of veterinary medicine from Midwestern University. I was a national executive board member in the Student American Veterinary Medical Association (SAVMA), and I advocated for student and veterinarian wellbeing. I have mostly worked in equine and small animal general practice. My favorite part of the day is seeing the bond people have with their pets. Watching how a pet’s demeanor completely changes when they see their owner is the best; that type of love is unconditional!
One of my first euthanasias as a young doctor was a beagle named Lucy. Though I did not diagnose her condition, her mom came back to speak with me about end-of-life care. She felt how strong my compassion was for Lucy's wellbeing. I was honored she felt that way, and we hugged and cried together. Months later, I remember how excited she was when she brought her new puppy to me. We enjoyed talking about Lucy's memory and all the new adventures she had with Oliver. I believe the ability to end a beloved pet’s pain and suffering is the ultimate gift we can provide. I am so happy to have the ability to provide an end-of-life experience that is beautiful and well-remembered, with the pet surrounded by loved ones in familiar surroundings.
I recently moved back to Georgia from Colorado to be closer to family, me and my husband are hoping to expand our family beyond our four-legged children. I enjoy hiking with our dogs and roller skating. When I am not outside, I like repurposing old furniture and goodwill finds, and frequenting yard sales and thrift shops.
About Dr. Lily Greener
I grew up in Middleton, Delaware and always enjoyed taking care of animals, though veterinary medicine wasn’t on my radar until much later. I originally wanted to go to school for human medicine and work in pediatric oncology. Veterinary medicine sort of found me one summer in college when I helped a friend's dad, who happened to be our local veterinarian, with a late night Cesarean section on a bulldog. This experience showed me that veterinary medicine was a tangible way to support and care for both people and animals, and I just fell in love.
After earning my undergraduate degree in animal biosciences with a minor in theatre from the University of Delaware, I attended the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, where I received my veterinary degree.
End-of-life care has been a passion of mine throughout my career. When I assisted at a veterinary hospital in college, I would volunteer for the euthanasia appointments because it allowed me to be a part of such a beautiful, vulnerable moment for pets and their families. Being part of the process also allowed me the chance to say goodbye to each patient I was losing, too. When my dog passed away, I was not able to say goodbye, so I truly feel blessed to be able to provide the space for families to honor the beautiful bond they have with their pets. The love people have for their pets is incredible, and I want to do everything I can to keep them comfortable during their last moments.
Atlanta has been home for two years now, and I am honored to be a part of the Lap of Love family in supporting families in the area. If I can play a small role in easing a family’s grief while giving their pet a peaceful passing, I will have had a fulfilling career.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my partner, Mike, and our three dogs—Sawyer, Milledge (Millie), and Tropicalia (Cali). We love finding new hiking spots with our pups and cheering on our beloved Georgia Bulldogs. I also enjoy running, traveling, reading, and seeing live theatre as much as possible!
About Dr. Jenni Flowers
I am originally from Florida, but I moved to metro Atlanta as a child and consider this beautiful melting pot to be my home. Since I was a kid, I told anyone and everyone that one day I would be a veterinarian, and here I am today.
I attended Kennesaw State University in Georgia for my undergraduate degree, and after graduating, I spent five years working as a veterinary assistant. I learned so much about veterinary medicine during that time, and it solidified my desire to become a veterinarian. I received my veterinary degree from Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine, and have spent my career working as a general practitioner.
I value the many relationships I’ve built with clients throughout the years and the wide variety of ways I get to help animals each day. I enjoy everything from puppy care, to geriatric medicine, to general medicine. I have special interests in cytology, radiology, and dermatological conditions—icky skin stuff is fascinating!
I am familiar with the experience of losing a pet and have said goodbye to several of my own over the years. Unfortunately, my pets didn’t pass in the comfort of their home, and this weighed heavily on my decision to transition into end-of-life care. I currently have a 15-year- old large breed dog, and when I think about how I want him to pass, I picture him peacefully at home in my arms.
I view humane, at-home euthanasia as the greatest last gift you can give a beloved animal companion, surrounded in comfort with the ones they love most, and I hope to aid other families in providing a peaceful passing for their pet, much like I hope to have with my old man, Champ.
Pronouns: She/Her
About Dr. Catherine Bryant
I grew up in Tuscaloosa, Alabama (Roll Tide!)—home to the University of Alabama, great barbecue, a lively nightlife, and the famous Kentucky Art Festival. I have always felt a connection to animals, so it was natural that I chose a career where I could help them and advocate for their needs. I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Alabama before attending veterinary school at Tuskegee University.
Since obtaining my veterinary degree, I have mostly worked in a clinical setting. I especially enjoy preventive care, internal medicine, and surgery. I also enjoy building client relationships, as I think it is a very important part of patient care.
I have lost several pets throughout my life. Euthanasia was always a difficult decision to make as a pet parent, but I have learned to cherish and celebrate the memories at the end of a beloved pet’s life, instead of only focusing on the loss. Losing my own pets have influenced my perspective on pain management, the importance of alleviating an animal’s suffering, and the gift of compassionate euthanasia.
Making end-of-life decisions for a pet is challenging and painful, and I enjoy being able to provide families with support and resources during the entire process. Advocating for a pet’s quality of life and understanding a family’s pain and sadness must be done delicately and with compassion, and that is what I strive to do in my role at Lap of Love.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors, riding bikes, and hiking and walking trails with my dogs.
About Dr. Melanie Madsen
I grew up in Arlington Heights, Illinois and moved to Tampa, Florida when I was 15. My family lived on the water in Tampa, and the beach became a part of my soul. Since I was young, pets have enhanced my health and wellbeing, while bringing me so much joy. I’ve always felt that it was my destiny to give back to them after all they have given me.
I received my bachelor’s degree in chemistry with a minor in mathematics from the University of Tampa before attending Ross University for veterinary school and North Carolina State College for my clinical training.
I enjoy all facets of veterinary medicine, but after completing a small animal rotating internship and my postdoctoral work in clinical pharmacology, I discovered a passion for drug pathophysiology, since it can be incorporated into every aspect of a pet’s life to improve their quality of life.
Other experiences that have molded me into the veterinarian I am today include my time volunteering at a nursing home and working as a medical coordinator for an animal rescue in St. Kitts during veterinary school, which gave me a worldwide perspective on animal welfare.
Losing a pet feels like losing a piece of your heart, knowing that life will never be the same without them. I have lost many pets throughout my life, and it never gets easier. Every pet deserves to feel love, comfort, and happiness during their final moments and to be treated with the utmost respect, and this is what I strive to provide for my clients. The greatest accomplishment for me as a veterinarian and human is the ability to make the end-of-life transition as peaceful as possible for pets and their families.
When I’m not working, I enjoy taking long walks with my dog, any type of outdoor activity—going to the beach, boating, hiking, gardening—and numerous crafts, including macrame, sewing, painting, drawing, puzzles, and home improvement.
About Dr. Sydney Brehm
I grew up in rural north Georgia on a 14-acre family farm where we raised cows, chickens, hogs, goats, and even peacocks. For a child who loved animals, it was paradise! My family is a funny mix of teachers and nurses, so I feel as though I was born with a medical calling and a desire to help people. Family dinners where my mom and my aunt would regale us with the latest graphic medical dramas they had encountered, while grossing out my cousins, were fascinating to me. It became obvious that veterinary medicine was my calling from a very young age.
After graduating from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, I was a general practitioner in a busy companion animal clinic. My older patients really stole my heart. Give me a 12 year old chocolate lab quietly thumping her tail on the floor while she rolls over for belly rubs, or a 15 year old tabby cat who just wants to hang out in your lap and purr most of the day, and I melt. After we lost our 13-year-old dobie to a chronic disease in 2018, my passion for helping older pets was really cemented. Even as a veterinarian, what we went through trying to manage her was, at times, scary and overwhelming. Our sweet girl was able to have a peaceful passing at home and I feel it is truly my purpose to provide the type of serenity that we got to experience.
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
About Dr. Erin Brown
I started my humble beginnings in Avondale Estates, GA, but mostly grew up in Savannah, GA. My love of biology and animals started young and progressively developed in high school, while taking AP Biology. It wasn't long after that I decided I wanted to become a veterinarian. My family has always been incredibly supportive by looking the other way when I brought in pet rabbits, toads, and a “foster” beagle that soon became ours. Fast forward, and I now live with my husband, our now senior beagle Rocky, and a chubby shih tzu named Crosby.
During my education, I was first a Pirate with my undergraduate degree at Armstrong State University, then later became a Buckeye as I graduated from The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine. After graduation, I transitioned to general practice in southern Indiana and eventually Decatur, GA. It was during this time that I discovered my true passion for the human-animal bond and honoring that relationship during end-of-life care. I truly enjoy connecting with families during such a delicate time and learning about the companionship they've had with their furry loved ones.
It is a great honor to now commit my career solely to end-of-life care by guiding families in the Atlanta area with their pets’ hospice care and final treatment.
Pronouns: She/Her
About Dr. Kyndel Lann
I grew up in Payson, Arizona, which is a small town surrounded by forests. I have always been an avid animal lover, and enjoyed assisting at our family ranch or helping out at the local veterinary clinic. Truthfully, as a child I never thought about being a veterinarian; I just assumed everyone loved animals as much as I did.
When I had almost finished my bachelor’s degree, I was struggling to decide on a career path. I come from a family of nurses and paramedics, though I thought I wanted to try something different than medicine. Turns out, I found that I enjoyed health sciences too much to stay away. Veterinary medicine allowed me to combine my love for animals and science, and the choice became clear. Veterinary school is not easy to get into, especially if you decide at the last minute like I did. I may have developed a few extra grey hairs and lost a lot of sleep along the way, but I did it! And, I am so happy that I did.
I received my bachelor's degree from Grand Canyon University and my doctorate of veterinary medicine from Midwestern University. I was a national executive board member in the Student American Veterinary Medical Association (SAVMA), and I advocated for student and veterinarian wellbeing. I have mostly worked in equine and small animal general practice. My favorite part of the day is seeing the bond people have with their pets. Watching how a pet’s demeanor completely changes when they see their owner is the best; that type of love is unconditional!
One of my first euthanasias as a young doctor was a beagle named Lucy. Though I did not diagnose her condition, her mom came back to speak with me about end-of-life care. She felt how strong my compassion was for Lucy's wellbeing. I was honored she felt that way, and we hugged and cried together. Months later, I remember how excited she was when she brought her new puppy to me. We enjoyed talking about Lucy's memory and all the new adventures she had with Oliver. I believe the ability to end a beloved pet’s pain and suffering is the ultimate gift we can provide. I am so happy to have the ability to provide an end-of-life experience that is beautiful and well-remembered, with the pet surrounded by loved ones in familiar surroundings.
I recently moved back to Georgia from Colorado to be closer to family, me and my husband are hoping to expand our family beyond our four-legged children. I enjoy hiking with our dogs and roller skating. When I am not outside, I like repurposing old furniture and goodwill finds, and frequenting yard sales and thrift shops.
About Dr. Lily Greener
I grew up in Middleton, Delaware and always enjoyed taking care of animals, though veterinary medicine wasn’t on my radar until much later. I originally wanted to go to school for human medicine and work in pediatric oncology. Veterinary medicine sort of found me one summer in college when I helped a friend's dad, who happened to be our local veterinarian, with a late night Cesarean section on a bulldog. This experience showed me that veterinary medicine was a tangible way to support and care for both people and animals, and I just fell in love.
After earning my undergraduate degree in animal biosciences with a minor in theatre from the University of Delaware, I attended the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, where I received my veterinary degree.
End-of-life care has been a passion of mine throughout my career. When I assisted at a veterinary hospital in college, I would volunteer for the euthanasia appointments because it allowed me to be a part of such a beautiful, vulnerable moment for pets and their families. Being part of the process also allowed me the chance to say goodbye to each patient I was losing, too. When my dog passed away, I was not able to say goodbye, so I truly feel blessed to be able to provide the space for families to honor the beautiful bond they have with their pets. The love people have for their pets is incredible, and I want to do everything I can to keep them comfortable during their last moments.
Atlanta has been home for two years now, and I am honored to be a part of the Lap of Love family in supporting families in the area. If I can play a small role in easing a family’s grief while giving their pet a peaceful passing, I will have had a fulfilling career.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my partner, Mike, and our three dogs—Sawyer, Milledge (Millie), and Tropicalia (Cali). We love finding new hiking spots with our pups and cheering on our beloved Georgia Bulldogs. I also enjoy running, traveling, reading, and seeing live theatre as much as possible!
About Dr. Jenni Flowers
I am originally from Florida, but I moved to metro Atlanta as a child and consider this beautiful melting pot to be my home. Since I was a kid, I told anyone and everyone that one day I would be a veterinarian, and here I am today.
I attended Kennesaw State University in Georgia for my undergraduate degree, and after graduating, I spent five years working as a veterinary assistant. I learned so much about veterinary medicine during that time, and it solidified my desire to become a veterinarian. I received my veterinary degree from Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine, and have spent my career working as a general practitioner.
I value the many relationships I’ve built with clients throughout the years and the wide variety of ways I get to help animals each day. I enjoy everything from puppy care, to geriatric medicine, to general medicine. I have special interests in cytology, radiology, and dermatological conditions—icky skin stuff is fascinating!
I am familiar with the experience of losing a pet and have said goodbye to several of my own over the years. Unfortunately, my pets didn’t pass in the comfort of their home, and this weighed heavily on my decision to transition into end-of-life care. I currently have a 15-year- old large breed dog, and when I think about how I want him to pass, I picture him peacefully at home in my arms.
I view humane, at-home euthanasia as the greatest last gift you can give a beloved animal companion, surrounded in comfort with the ones they love most, and I hope to aid other families in providing a peaceful passing for their pet, much like I hope to have with my old man, Champ.
Pronouns: She/Her
About Dr. Catherine Bryant
I grew up in Tuscaloosa, Alabama (Roll Tide!)—home to the University of Alabama, great barbecue, a lively nightlife, and the famous Kentucky Art Festival. I have always felt a connection to animals, so it was natural that I chose a career where I could help them and advocate for their needs. I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Alabama before attending veterinary school at Tuskegee University.
Since obtaining my veterinary degree, I have mostly worked in a clinical setting. I especially enjoy preventive care, internal medicine, and surgery. I also enjoy building client relationships, as I think it is a very important part of patient care.
I have lost several pets throughout my life. Euthanasia was always a difficult decision to make as a pet parent, but I have learned to cherish and celebrate the memories at the end of a beloved pet’s life, instead of only focusing on the loss. Losing my own pets have influenced my perspective on pain management, the importance of alleviating an animal’s suffering, and the gift of compassionate euthanasia.
Making end-of-life decisions for a pet is challenging and painful, and I enjoy being able to provide families with support and resources during the entire process. Advocating for a pet’s quality of life and understanding a family’s pain and sadness must be done delicately and with compassion, and that is what I strive to do in my role at Lap of Love.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors, riding bikes, and hiking and walking trails with my dogs.
About Dr. Melanie Madsen
I grew up in Arlington Heights, Illinois and moved to Tampa, Florida when I was 15. My family lived on the water in Tampa, and the beach became a part of my soul. Since I was young, pets have enhanced my health and wellbeing, while bringing me so much joy. I’ve always felt that it was my destiny to give back to them after all they have given me.
I received my bachelor’s degree in chemistry with a minor in mathematics from the University of Tampa before attending Ross University for veterinary school and North Carolina State College for my clinical training.
I enjoy all facets of veterinary medicine, but after completing a small animal rotating internship and my postdoctoral work in clinical pharmacology, I discovered a passion for drug pathophysiology, since it can be incorporated into every aspect of a pet’s life to improve their quality of life.
Other experiences that have molded me into the veterinarian I am today include my time volunteering at a nursing home and working as a medical coordinator for an animal rescue in St. Kitts during veterinary school, which gave me a worldwide perspective on animal welfare.
Losing a pet feels like losing a piece of your heart, knowing that life will never be the same without them. I have lost many pets throughout my life, and it never gets easier. Every pet deserves to feel love, comfort, and happiness during their final moments and to be treated with the utmost respect, and this is what I strive to provide for my clients. The greatest accomplishment for me as a veterinarian and human is the ability to make the end-of-life transition as peaceful as possible for pets and their families.
When I’m not working, I enjoy taking long walks with my dog, any type of outdoor activity—going to the beach, boating, hiking, gardening—and numerous crafts, including macrame, sewing, painting, drawing, puzzles, and home improvement.