About Laura

Just like my father and grandfather, I have always LOVED animals. In my lifetime I have been guardian to a pug, German shepherd, miniature pinscher, Maine coon cat, parakeet, rescued hamsters and rats, an adopted king snake, tropical fish, a rehabilitated green tree frog, and many foster dogs.

Currently my spouse and I have two rescue dogs. My dog is Winston, a funny little fuzzy pug mix. Matt’s dog is Abby, an adorable Alaskan klee kai (aka mini husky).

I have volunteered with Homeward Trails Animal Rescue in various capacities since 2008. From decades of pet-sitting, five years at a top-rated dog daycare, four years in local holistic pet retail and thousands of hours of volunteer work, I have experience with rescued and nervous animals, tending to various health and behavioral issues, and administering medications (oral, topical and injections).

I am a Certified Professional Animal Care Provider through PACCC (Professional Animal Care Certification Council). The in-depth, 125-question CPACP exam, conducted at an approved testing location for a total testing time of 2.5 hours, covers animal care topics including health issues such as administering medications, first aid and CPR, and cleaning and disinfecting. Additional tested health-related knowledge includes fights and bites; documentation; profile, play, behavior, and temperament; and animal management. Tested knowledge of operations includes the safety of animals and the facility (chemical usage, safety requirements); escape (prevention, owner notification, recovery); death; extreme weather, and disaster preparedness. PACCC certified professionals agree to abide by their Code of Ethics that places the welfare of animals above all other business considerations. 

I am also American Red Cross Pet First Aid Certified.

In addition to a great deal of dog and cat care knowledge, I have education and experience in the care of rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, chinchillas, ferrets, hedgehogs, rats, mice, parrots, parrotlets, conures, cockatiels, parakeets, canaries, finches, tropical fish, goldfish & koi, hermit crabs, frogs, snakes of all sizes, various lizards, land and water turtles & tortoises, miniature horses, goats and even raccoons!