How many kids do you have and what are their ages?
I have a son named Henry. He is 6 ½ months old.
How long have you lived in Stamford? What made you decide to live here?
My husband and I moved to Stamford 5 years ago after he got out of the Marines and I graduated veterinary school. My husband’s new job was in finance in Manhattan, but we knew we wanted kids so we decided to just head straight for the ‘burbs instead of living in the city. Stamford was an obvious choice for a (then) mid-twenties couple because of its lively restaurant and downtown scene, while also having the benefits of hiking and kids activities for our future.
What’s your favorite family activity in Stamford?
Right now, since Henry is still so young, it’s mostly anything that gets us out of the house like going out for lunch at Cask Republic or hiking at Mianus.
What’s your favorite place to eat in Stamford?
I love Siena! It’s really delightful Italian and they always remember us there. Plus, the wine list is pretty great.
What’s been your favorite “mommy moment” so far?
Holding him for the first time is still my favorite. My husband and I struggled to have Henry- we did months of fertility treatments and even had a failed IVF cycle, so after doing IVF a second time and finally getting pregnant, after such pain and longing, being able to hold my very own baby was magical.
Tell us about your job.
I am a veterinarian here in Stamford, at High Ridge Animal Hospital. I am a general practitioner for small animals, meaning I see dogs and cats for everything from vaccines to UTIs to kidney problems and cancer.
What do you love about being a veterinarian?
Being a veterinarian is the only thing I have ever wanted to do with my life, ever since I was a little girl. I love the different aspects of my job: I deal with puppies, neurological issues, skin issues, ear issues, eye issues, liver damage, kidney changes, heart problems etc… No day is the same and no patient is the same.
Do you have family pets?
Of course! I have a little rescue dog named Tucker and a big black cat named Padfoot.
Any advice for families looking to add a pet to the mix?
Do your research! Getting a Frenchie for an exercise buddy or a German Shepherd to be a lazy apartment dog is going to end up poorly for everyone. Certain breeds have certain characteristics that makes them better suited for some families vs others for a number of reasons. Asking a dog who has been bred for one thing to conform to your lifestyle is going to lead to behavioral and/or health issues. Also making sure to find a great rescue group or a good breeder. If you don’t know how to find a good breeder or rescue, you can absolutely contact your veterinarian, even if you don’t currently have a pet. We are always happy to help! Also pet insurance can be a literal lifesaver.
Any advice for families who have a pet and are expecting a new baby?
Always allow your pet to have the space they need. A new baby can be scary for them! Never force the pet to be near the baby, but encourage them with love and affection when they do choose to be in the same room/near the baby. Always allow them the option to leave if they are showing anxious signs (lip licking/yawning when not tired/full body shaking like they are wet). Again, you can always ask your vet more specifics about anxiety signs. Cats are easier than dogs in this aspect because as long as you still feed them and maybe provide a lap at night, they tend to be pretty chill about new babies and just give the baby space.
How do you balance work & mommyhood?
It is hard! I am lucky in that my husband makes sure to give me ‘me’ time during the weekend so I can sit around (and watch really bad TV!). But I also do things to feed my body like cooking healthy meals and exercising. While on maternity leave I was going crazy so I actually joined the Fit4Mom group here in Stamford and it has been a blast meeting new moms and exercising the stress away.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve gotten from another mom?
Some days your best will be being a Pinterest Mom. Some days your best will be making boxed mac n’ cheese in PJs. Show yourself some grace on the mac n’ cheese days.
(Top two photos by Tiffani Photography)