Dr. Karen Randall is a licensed Minnesota veterinarian. She is a graduate of Colorado State University Veterinary School, a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the American Association of Human-Animal Bond Veterinarians, and the International Association for Animal Hospice and Palliative Care, where she serves on the Education Committee.
A note from Dr. Randall
I have been a small animal practitioner and practice owner for over 18 years, first on the beautiful coast of Maine and most recently with a feline specialty practice in Cheyenne, Wyoming. One of the most rewarding aspects of being a veterinarian is becoming part of the unique relationship that people share with their pets. It is truly a privilege. The decision to start an “end of life” practice has been evolving for me over several years. Recently, I found myself faced with the illness and death of several of my own beloved pets* over the span of just a few years. My decisions, as a pet owner, were intuitive. I wanted the end of their lives to be comfortable and I wanted them to be home, where they felt safe, with people they loved. As a veterinarian, I was able to assess their condition and administer medications and nursing care as needed. I was practicing home veterinary hospice care on my own pets before I even had a name for it. As their diseases progressed, I was faced with decisions about euthanasia. Although the decision was always difficult, there was ease in knowing that it would take place at home, on a soft bed, surrounded by family. I realized that these are the wishes of many pet guardians. It is my hope that Solace Veterinary Hospice will be able to offer this opportunity to more families in the Twin Cities area.
*“Sadie” Australian Cattle Dog, age 16…. “Aster” German Shepherd Dog, age 14… “Angus” Labrador Retriever, age 12… “Buddy” Thoroughbred, age 10… “Aladdin” Domestic Shorthair, age 19… and “Cowboy Floyd” Domestic Shorthair, age 17.