Meet Dr. Christie
The veterinarian behind The Kind Vet, and the story that led her to end-of-life care.
Growing up in the northwest suburbs of Chicago in a family that always included multiple pets, I can’t remember a time when I didn’t want to be a veterinarian. I studied Biology and Spanish at the University of Missouri–Columbia before attending veterinary school at the University of Illinois. After graduation, I spent ten years in feline-only practice, building strong relationships with pets and their families and striving to better their lives in any way I could. Over time, I discovered that my greatest strength was in guiding families through difficult decisions, particularly those involving quality of life and end-of-life care.
Shortly after moving to a new home, I learned that my own beloved calico cat, Annie, was terminally ill. Rather than put her through a stressful car ride back to the clinic, I chose to set her free in the comfort of our home. The experience was peaceful, gentle, and completely free of fear or anxiety. In other words, it was exactly what Annie and I both deserved. In that moment, I realized just how special in-home euthanasia can be for pets and the people who love them.
I soon transitioned to providing exclusive end-of-life care, where I am deeply honored to be invited into families’ homes during one of life’s most tender and sacred moments. I see my role not simply as a veterinarian, but as a guide. I have been there myself and can help families navigate this process with empathy, honesty, and respect.
Two principles guide every visit I make. First, I care for every family exactly as I would care for my own friends and loved ones. Second, I truly believe that there is no single “right” way to say goodbye to a cherished pet. One of the greatest gifts of in-home euthanasia is the freedom to create an experience that feels most comfortable and meaningful for your family. Your pet may be curled up in your lap, stretched out on a blanket in the backyard, or cozy in their favorite bed. You might choose to offer a favorite treat, share stories, sit quietly together, or simply hold their paw. Regardless, my goal is always the same: a gentle, serene transition filled with love.
I am incredibly grateful to now offer this personalized, compassionate care as The Kind Vet. I know we will be meeting on one of the hardest days of your life, and I want you to know that you will not have to face it alone. I will be there to guide you through each step, answer every question, and ensure that your pet’s final moments are as calm and comfortable as possible.
Outside of veterinary medicine, I enjoy spending as much time as possible with my son and our pets, exploring Chicagoland and volunteering together at a local cat shelter. I am also an avid reader and traveler.