Meet the veterinarians
About Dr. Rachel Abrams
I was born in Boston and moved to the small, rural town of Sudbury, Massachusetts at the age of 9. Both my parents were animal lovers, so as they say in the south, “I come by it honestly.” Growing up, we had guinea pigs, a snake, turtles, parakeets, cats, dogs, and, of course, horses. We eventually moved to a larger property where our horses could be “at home” instead of having to board them. In addition to my love for animals, I have always had an affinity for science and teaching, and I never considered a career other than becoming a veterinarian.
I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of New Hampshire. After graduating, I spent four years in Dover, New Hampshire working at veterinary hospitals and a boarding kennel, before completing veterinary school at the University of Florida. I fell in love with North Carolina after visiting a friend in Carey and have lived in Charlotte since 2003.
Most people think being a veterinarian is all about helping animals. While that is a large part, it is also about helping people. One of my mentors described being a veterinarian as “ helping people with pet problems,” and I couldn't agree more. Being a veterinarian has enabled me to help people and pets in so many different ways. I have worked as a general practitioner, an emergency veterinarian, a professional services veterinarian for a pharmaceutical company, and was the Practice Certification Manager at Fear Free.
Through my role at Lap of Love, I have the opportunity to guide pet parents through one of the most important—and difficult—milestones in their relationship with their beloved pets. Saying goodbye in the comfort of one's home is inherently less stressful for families and their beloved pets. Deciding to let a pet go is never easy, even when you know it's time, and I consider it an honor to help families navigate this process.
When I’m not at work I like to spend time with my partner, Scott, and our pets—a pony, five cats, and a husky. I also enjoy reading, hiking, and, every now and then, watching a movie.
Pronouns: She/HerAbout Dr. Jennifer Walters
I had many incredible professors and doctors throughout veterinary school, but the most important lesson I learned came from a twelve-week old golden retriever puppy named Disney. He was the happiest, liveliest, most adorable puppy and I was the envy of the cardiology unit when he became my patient.
Disney's parents had brought him to the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine because when he got really excited, his airway would close up, and he would gasp for air until he passed out. I witnessed this several times during his stay with us, and I had to snatch Disney up and race to the ICU for oxygen. It was terrifying. After several tests, we determined that there was no treatment for Disney's condition. His parents were heartbroken, as were my resident advisor and I. Because the episodes were unpredictable and horrible for everyone, including Disney, his parents made the hardest decision they had ever had to make- to euthanize their puppy.
I listened as my resident advisor explained the process to them. Then we left the room to allow them some time together. My resident used this time to explain the process to me, as well. He said that while the actual procedure was straightforward, helping people through their grief was harder and more important than any cardiology lesson he could teach me. We needed to let Disney's parents set the pace and help them feel comfortable with their decision. In the end, we laughed at silly Disney stories and cried over the unfairness of it all. They hugged us and thanked us.
This is my saddest, most beautiful veterinary school memory and I carry it with me to every appointment. After fifteen years of practicing, I never tire of laughing and crying with families and hearing stories of their beloved pets. I am here to answer all your questions, guide you through this difficult process, and assure you that your decision is one of kindness and love.
About Dr. Emily Brown
Born in Indiana but raised in the outskirts of Charlotte, NC, I knew from a very young age that I wanted to be a veterinarian. After completing my bachelor’s degree in Biology, I went on to pursue my veterinary degree. I graduated from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine after completing my clinical year at Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine. After graduation, I spent several years in general practice where I discovered my passion for hospice and end-of-life veterinary care.
Growing up, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to own, learn about, and care for numerous different types of animals, including dogs, cats, horses, rabbits, chickens, and fish. The opportunity to care for these animals also came with difficult lessons at times; namely, that beloved pets don’t live forever.
My goal as a veterinarian is first and foremost to provide gentle and loving end-of-life care for the furry family members we love so deeply. I also strive to provide support and compassion for those who love them while they are faced with one of an animal lover’s most difficult decisions.
About Dr. Jodie Joseph
I grew up in Wayne, New Jersey, yet spent every holiday season in Charlotte, North Carolina. As an 8-year-old, I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian after our family Labrador was euthanized. Nukie was 15, and my parents included me in every step, from making the decision that it was time, to being present for the euthanasia, to arranging her aftercare. I saw the kindness and humanity that Nukie was finally at peace, and wanted to help other pets pass with dignity.
Prior to veterinary school, I had extensive training in canine behavior, service dog handling, and integrative medicine. I see my patients as a whole mind, body, and spirit. I love to work with behaviorally challenged animals to provide a smooth and kind transition in a safe, loving space. While in school, I had the pleasure to serve as a caregiver for geriatric pups, Corie and Daisy. They strongly influenced my decision to choose this career path.
I obtained my veterinary degree from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine and my certification to practice small animal acupuncture from the Chi Institute. I then pursued my interest in oncology by surviving various medical and radiation oncology internships. However, my passion for connecting with pets and their people led me to take an emergency position, and I felt there that I was fulfilling my purpose by supporting clients and their pets through difficult life-or-death decision-making.
I eagerly accepted a position with Lap of Love, since our philosophies so closely align. All roads eventually lead to palliative treatment, hospice care, and euthanasia, and I consider being welcomed into someone's home to support a furry family member through these times an honor. It is a gift to share in those final delicate moments and the array of emotions that accompany, from telling stories of laughter and joy, to the moments of sorrow and tears, and being authentic, compassionate, empathetic, and nonjudgmental every step of the way. I hope to make that last day as kind, peaceful, and ideal as possible, for both the pet and their family.
About Dr. Dane Buenten
From a young age, I always enjoyed the companionship of multiple pets, including cats, dogs, mice, and birds, while growing up in Eastern Long Island, New York. I believe people should strive to be worthy of the unique bond and love that pets have for their owners.
While attending Fredonia University in New York, I became fascinated with the immune system’s complexity, and I graduated with a degree in molecular genetics and a chemistry minor. I then attended Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, and completed my clinical year at Colorado State University. Following graduation, I practiced general and emergency medicine for four years in Lewes, Delaware and Fort Mill, South Carolina. I love being a veterinarian because it allows me to help pets and people. To be able to improve someone's life, or aid someone in a time of need, is very rewarding.
I enjoy all aspects of veterinary medicine, particularly end-of-life care, internal medicine, immunology, and clinical pathology. During my time in practice, I fostered a passion for keeping my patients’ best interests at heart. I connected with the idea of understanding my patients’ quality of life and working to maintain or improve it. That passion brought me to Lap of Love.
I recently lost my own pet, Ringo, to lymphoma. It was a truly eye-opening and sobering experience to be on the other side of the table. I vowed to make Ringo’s passing meaningful by making his end-of-life care as compassionate and heartfelt as possible.
I moved to the Charlotte area to be with family and I enjoy the southern hospitality the Carolinas are known for. I currently reside in Rock Hill, South Carolina with my two handsome rescue cats, Billy and Emmitt.
Pronouns: He / Him
About Dr. Rachel Abrams
I was born in Boston and moved to the small, rural town of Sudbury, Massachusetts at the age of 9. Both my parents were animal lovers, so as they say in the south, “I come by it honestly.” Growing up, we had guinea pigs, a snake, turtles, parakeets, cats, dogs, and, of course, horses. We eventually moved to a larger property where our horses could be “at home” instead of having to board them. In addition to my love for animals, I have always had an affinity for science and teaching, and I never considered a career other than becoming a veterinarian.
I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of New Hampshire. After graduating, I spent four years in Dover, New Hampshire working at veterinary hospitals and a boarding kennel, before completing veterinary school at the University of Florida. I fell in love with North Carolina after visiting a friend in Carey and have lived in Charlotte since 2003.
Most people think being a veterinarian is all about helping animals. While that is a large part, it is also about helping people. One of my mentors described being a veterinarian as “ helping people with pet problems,” and I couldn't agree more. Being a veterinarian has enabled me to help people and pets in so many different ways. I have worked as a general practitioner, an emergency veterinarian, a professional services veterinarian for a pharmaceutical company, and was the Practice Certification Manager at Fear Free.
Through my role at Lap of Love, I have the opportunity to guide pet parents through one of the most important—and difficult—milestones in their relationship with their beloved pets. Saying goodbye in the comfort of one's home is inherently less stressful for families and their beloved pets. Deciding to let a pet go is never easy, even when you know it's time, and I consider it an honor to help families navigate this process.
When I’m not at work I like to spend time with my partner, Scott, and our pets—a pony, five cats, and a husky. I also enjoy reading, hiking, and, every now and then, watching a movie.
Pronouns: She/HerAbout Dr. Jennifer Walters
I had many incredible professors and doctors throughout veterinary school, but the most important lesson I learned came from a twelve-week old golden retriever puppy named Disney. He was the happiest, liveliest, most adorable puppy and I was the envy of the cardiology unit when he became my patient.
Disney's parents had brought him to the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine because when he got really excited, his airway would close up, and he would gasp for air until he passed out. I witnessed this several times during his stay with us, and I had to snatch Disney up and race to the ICU for oxygen. It was terrifying. After several tests, we determined that there was no treatment for Disney's condition. His parents were heartbroken, as were my resident advisor and I. Because the episodes were unpredictable and horrible for everyone, including Disney, his parents made the hardest decision they had ever had to make- to euthanize their puppy.
I listened as my resident advisor explained the process to them. Then we left the room to allow them some time together. My resident used this time to explain the process to me, as well. He said that while the actual procedure was straightforward, helping people through their grief was harder and more important than any cardiology lesson he could teach me. We needed to let Disney's parents set the pace and help them feel comfortable with their decision. In the end, we laughed at silly Disney stories and cried over the unfairness of it all. They hugged us and thanked us.
This is my saddest, most beautiful veterinary school memory and I carry it with me to every appointment. After fifteen years of practicing, I never tire of laughing and crying with families and hearing stories of their beloved pets. I am here to answer all your questions, guide you through this difficult process, and assure you that your decision is one of kindness and love.
About Dr. Emily Brown
Born in Indiana but raised in the outskirts of Charlotte, NC, I knew from a very young age that I wanted to be a veterinarian. After completing my bachelor’s degree in Biology, I went on to pursue my veterinary degree. I graduated from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine after completing my clinical year at Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine. After graduation, I spent several years in general practice where I discovered my passion for hospice and end-of-life veterinary care.
Growing up, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to own, learn about, and care for numerous different types of animals, including dogs, cats, horses, rabbits, chickens, and fish. The opportunity to care for these animals also came with difficult lessons at times; namely, that beloved pets don’t live forever.
My goal as a veterinarian is first and foremost to provide gentle and loving end-of-life care for the furry family members we love so deeply. I also strive to provide support and compassion for those who love them while they are faced with one of an animal lover’s most difficult decisions.
About Dr. Jodie Joseph
I grew up in Wayne, New Jersey, yet spent every holiday season in Charlotte, North Carolina. As an 8-year-old, I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian after our family Labrador was euthanized. Nukie was 15, and my parents included me in every step, from making the decision that it was time, to being present for the euthanasia, to arranging her aftercare. I saw the kindness and humanity that Nukie was finally at peace, and wanted to help other pets pass with dignity.
Prior to veterinary school, I had extensive training in canine behavior, service dog handling, and integrative medicine. I see my patients as a whole mind, body, and spirit. I love to work with behaviorally challenged animals to provide a smooth and kind transition in a safe, loving space. While in school, I had the pleasure to serve as a caregiver for geriatric pups, Corie and Daisy. They strongly influenced my decision to choose this career path.
I obtained my veterinary degree from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine and my certification to practice small animal acupuncture from the Chi Institute. I then pursued my interest in oncology by surviving various medical and radiation oncology internships. However, my passion for connecting with pets and their people led me to take an emergency position, and I felt there that I was fulfilling my purpose by supporting clients and their pets through difficult life-or-death decision-making.
I eagerly accepted a position with Lap of Love, since our philosophies so closely align. All roads eventually lead to palliative treatment, hospice care, and euthanasia, and I consider being welcomed into someone's home to support a furry family member through these times an honor. It is a gift to share in those final delicate moments and the array of emotions that accompany, from telling stories of laughter and joy, to the moments of sorrow and tears, and being authentic, compassionate, empathetic, and nonjudgmental every step of the way. I hope to make that last day as kind, peaceful, and ideal as possible, for both the pet and their family.
About Dr. Dane Buenten
From a young age, I always enjoyed the companionship of multiple pets, including cats, dogs, mice, and birds, while growing up in Eastern Long Island, New York. I believe people should strive to be worthy of the unique bond and love that pets have for their owners.
While attending Fredonia University in New York, I became fascinated with the immune system’s complexity, and I graduated with a degree in molecular genetics and a chemistry minor. I then attended Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, and completed my clinical year at Colorado State University. Following graduation, I practiced general and emergency medicine for four years in Lewes, Delaware and Fort Mill, South Carolina. I love being a veterinarian because it allows me to help pets and people. To be able to improve someone's life, or aid someone in a time of need, is very rewarding.
I enjoy all aspects of veterinary medicine, particularly end-of-life care, internal medicine, immunology, and clinical pathology. During my time in practice, I fostered a passion for keeping my patients’ best interests at heart. I connected with the idea of understanding my patients’ quality of life and working to maintain or improve it. That passion brought me to Lap of Love.
I recently lost my own pet, Ringo, to lymphoma. It was a truly eye-opening and sobering experience to be on the other side of the table. I vowed to make Ringo’s passing meaningful by making his end-of-life care as compassionate and heartfelt as possible.
I moved to the Charlotte area to be with family and I enjoy the southern hospitality the Carolinas are known for. I currently reside in Rock Hill, South Carolina with my two handsome rescue cats, Billy and Emmitt.
Pronouns: He / Him
About Dr. Rachel Abrams
I was born in Boston and moved to the small, rural town of Sudbury, Massachusetts at the age of 9. Both my parents were animal lovers, so as they say in the south, “I come by it honestly.” Growing up, we had guinea pigs, a snake, turtles, parakeets, cats, dogs, and, of course, horses. We eventually moved to a larger property where our horses could be “at home” instead of having to board them. In addition to my love for animals, I have always had an affinity for science and teaching, and I never considered a career other than becoming a veterinarian.
I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of New Hampshire. After graduating, I spent four years in Dover, New Hampshire working at veterinary hospitals and a boarding kennel, before completing veterinary school at the University of Florida. I fell in love with North Carolina after visiting a friend in Carey and have lived in Charlotte since 2003.
Most people think being a veterinarian is all about helping animals. While that is a large part, it is also about helping people. One of my mentors described being a veterinarian as “ helping people with pet problems,” and I couldn't agree more. Being a veterinarian has enabled me to help people and pets in so many different ways. I have worked as a general practitioner, an emergency veterinarian, a professional services veterinarian for a pharmaceutical company, and was the Practice Certification Manager at Fear Free.
Through my role at Lap of Love, I have the opportunity to guide pet parents through one of the most important—and difficult—milestones in their relationship with their beloved pets. Saying goodbye in the comfort of one's home is inherently less stressful for families and their beloved pets. Deciding to let a pet go is never easy, even when you know it's time, and I consider it an honor to help families navigate this process.
When I’m not at work I like to spend time with my partner, Scott, and our pets—a pony, five cats, and a husky. I also enjoy reading, hiking, and, every now and then, watching a movie.
Pronouns: She/Her