- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine – University of Wisconsin—Madison
- Acupuncture Certification Course – Chi University
- MS Wildlife Genetics – Purdue University
- BS Biology and Wildlife Ecology – University of Wisconsin—Madison
I grew up in Appleton, WI, and went to college at UW-Madison. After completing my undergraduate degree I went to Purdue University and studied the genetic-based mate choice in the San Diego Zoo koala colony, specifically looking at a group of immune genes called the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC). I could not resist the pull to care for pets and their owners, so I went back to UW-Madison to receive my Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine in 2019. During Vet school, I discovered a passion for client communication and empowering owners with the knowledge to make the decisions that work best for themselves and their pets. During my time in private practice, I have been providing medical, surgical, and wellness care for small animal patients at a clinic in West Bend. While caring for my patients, I was uncomfortable with the number of cases in the older patient population that could not be adequately supported by Western Medicine alone, so I completed the Acupuncture course at Chi University. I have a passion for implementing Fear Free techniques to make veterinary visits pleasant and safe for animals, owners, and staff.
Even through Vet school, I had a very clear idea of what kind of a vet I wanted to be. I am not going to tell you what to do, that’s just not me. I really enjoy communicating with clients and helping them understand the medical information enough to make decisions for their pets that fit within their own lives and philosophies. I am always happy to tell you what I would do if guidance is needed, but everyone is different and what I would do, may not be best for every client. I consider myself part of a team with my clients and do everything I can to support both my clients and their pets.
I live with my husband, two children ages 2 and 3, and a house full of animals (3 dogs, 2 cats, 2 turtles, several fish, a herd of goats, a cow, a pig, and a flock of chickens, turkeys, and guinea fowl). In her free time, I enjoy crafting (knitting, crocheting, quilting), playing with the kids, tending to our “home zoo”, and being outdoors. I also enjoy spending time with family and friends as well as tackling home improvements.
