About Us

Meet Dr. Sara & Her Team

We are a mobile veterinary practice that specializes in end-of-life care for pets and pet loss services. All of us at Compassion 4 Paws are committed to helping you and your pet through these difficult times.

A Passionate and Dedicated Team

Out of the drive to start her own practice combined with her passion for end-of-life care for pets, Dr. Sara founded Compassion 4 Paws in late 2012. Since then, her devoted team of veterinarians and care coordinators continue to offer you and your beloved companion the support and care you need during this difficult time of navigating your pet’s end-of-life journey.

Dr. Sara’s team of dedicated veterinarians have specialized training in acupuncture and hospice care and are continually advancing their knowledge, allowing them to provide the highest quality care for your pet.

We at Compassion 4 Paws consider it an honor and privilege to support you through this journey.

Does this sound like a team you would like to be part of? Looking for a new opportunity? Go here to learn more about joining our team.

Join Our Team
In-Home End of Life Care for Pets | Pet Loss Services | Pet Acupuncture | Pet Laser Therapy | Seattle Area

Dr. Sara Render Hopkins

DVM, CVA, CHPV

(Pronouns she/her)

I find nothing more fulfilling than offering pets the care and dignity they deserve in an environment where they’re completely comfortable. Over the years, we have built our team of amazing and compassionate veterinarians and care coordinators to be able to better serve our wonderful community.

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About Dr. Sara Render Hopkins, DVM, CVA, CHPV

I was raised in Toronto, Canada and moved with my family to the United States in 1991. I’m happy to call Washington State my home, where I’ve lived since 1996.

For years I knew that I wanted to work with animals. I completed my veterinary education at Washington State University in 2000, and obtained my Certification in Veterinary Acupuncture through the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS) in 2013. I practiced at an Eastside small animal clinic for 11 years. I loved my work there, particularly my patients and their families. In the later years, I developed an interest in pain management and a passion for giving pets the dignified and loving end-of-life journey they deserved. In 2013, I felt the need to combine my acupuncture training with my love for compassionate care of animals in a home-based setting, and founded Compassion 4 Paws.

I’m so glad I did. I find nothing more fulfilling than offering pets the care and dignity they deserve in an environment where they’re completely comfortable. Over the years, we have built our team of amazing and compassionate veterinarians and care coordinators to be able to better serve our wonderful community.

In the fall of 2017, I became one of the first veterinarians in the world to achieve certification in Animal Hospice and Palliative Care through the IAAHPC (International Association of Animal Hospice and Palliative Care). The 16 month course furthered my knowledge to better support pets and their families during their end-of-life journey. In 2020 I was honored to join the IAAHPC Board of Directors and look forward to increasing awareness and promoting education of animal hospice, palliative and end-of-life care.

I live in Edmonds with my husband Dennis, our young son, our dogs George and Roy, and our cats Sushi and Freddie Purr-cury. During my free time I enjoy traveling, camping, reading, crafts and spending time with friends.

In-Home End of Life Care for Pets | Pet Loss Services | Pet Acupuncture | Pet Laser Therapy | Seattle Area

Dr. Allison Edwards

DVM, CHPV
(Pronouns she/her)
I am so grateful to have made this move to Compassion 4 Paws and truly feel as though I have found my calling. After over 7 years, I still find it so satisfying to be able to guide and assist people and their beloved pets during this difficult time
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About Dr. Allison Edwards, DVM

I was raised in the Seattle area and am proud to be a 3rd generation Seattleite. I completed my veterinary education at Washington State University in 2012 and then spent a year undertaking a small animal rotating internship at Alameda East Veterinary Hospital in Denver, CO (the clinic of Animal Planet’s ‘Emergency Vets’ television fame). After graduation, I practiced emergency medicine. I believe this was the best preparation for my transition to hospice and end of life care, since the two often go hand in hand. I am so grateful to have made this move to Compassion 4 Paws and truly feel as though I have found my calling. After over 7 years, I still find it so satisfying to be able to guide and assist people and their beloved pets during this difficult time. In 2020, I received my certification in Animal Hospice and Palliative Care (CHPV) through the International Association for Animal Hospice and Palliative Care (IAAHPC) and incorporate my training into our practice every day.

I live in Shoreline with my husband, step son and daughter. We have two adorable pups, Henry and Lila, along with a rescue axolotl, Toothie, hamster, Jelly Bean, and six chickens, the Ladies. During my free time I enjoy being with my family, walking around Greenlake and learning to DIY remodel our home.

Dr. Tessa King | In-Home End of Life Care for Pets | Pet Loss Services | Pet Acupuncture | Pet Laser Therapy | Seattle Area

Dr. Tessa King

DVM
(Pronouns she/her)
I realized what an incredible gift it is to be able to help both people and animals through the end-of-life transition in the comfort of their own homes. I feel honored and blessed to be part of the Compassion 4 Paws team and to be able to provide such a needed service to people and their beloved pets.
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About Dr. Tessa King, DVM

I was born and raised in Seattle and have lived here in Washington my entire life. My dad is also a veterinarian and I spent much time in my youth observing and working in his clinic. I think the first time I watched him do surgery, I was about 4 years old! I loved biology and of course animals and so decided to follow in his footsteps. I went to Washington State University for both undergraduate and veterinary school, graduating from vet school in 2002. After graduation, I headed back to western Washington, finally leaving Pullman behind, though I loved my time there and am definitely a Coug!

I have worked in both private general practice as well as shelter medicine. Prior to joining Compassion 4 Paws, I worked in a practice that provided house calls both for general medical concerns as well as end-of-life care. It was during this time I realized what an incredible gift it is to be able to help both people and animals through the end-of-life transition in the comfort of their own homes. I feel honored and blessed to be part of the Compassion 4 Paws team and to be able to provide such a needed service to people and their beloved pets.

I live in Bothell with my husband, two daughters and three fur children – two Husky mixes, Layla & Lucy, and a tabby cat named Charles Hamm. I love being in the garden, camping, and out in nature when the sun is shining. When it’s raining, I prefer to be inside baking or snuggling and reading with my kids.

In-Home End of Life Care for Pets | Pet Loss Services | Pet Acupuncture | Pet Laser Therapy | Seattle Area

Dr. Kelli Smith

DVM, CHPV
(Pronouns she/her)
I joined Compassion 4 Paws to provide guidance to families facing their pets golden years, to enhance a pets comfort, and to bring what peace and strength I may to ease the final parting. 
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About Dr. Kelli Smith, DVM

Growing up in Snohomish, WA, I realized my passion for helping animals at an early age while working at a local wildlife rehabilitation center.

I pursued my undergraduate work at the University of Oregon and received my Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Kansas State University in 2009. Following veterinary school, I completed a small animal internship at Iowa State College of Veterinary Medicine, primarily working in emergency medicine.

After returning to the Pacific Northwest, I enjoyed nearly 10 years in general practice where I began to realize my passion for treating senior pets, a time during which I feel they need the most care. I joined Compassion 4 Paws to provide guidance to families facing their pets golden years, to enhance a pets comfort, and to bring what peace and strength I may to ease the final parting. I received my certification in Animal Hospice and Palliative Care (CHPV) through the International Association for Animal Hospice and Palliative Care (IAAHPC) in August of 2022 and am excited to incorporate my training into my patient care

I currently reside in Snohomish with my husband, my two boys, and my two kitties, Trinity and Zoey. When not working, I enjoy baking, traveling, reading, and ballroom dancing.

In-Home End of Life Care for Pets | Pet Loss Services | Pet Acupuncture | Pet Laser Therapy | Seattle Area

Dr. Nicole Schwinkendorf

DVM, CVA
(Pronouns she/her)
I feel called to help pet parents navigate the difficult decisions and emotions inherent with end of life issues. When the loving decision to let a pet pass has been made, I am deeply honored to be present and to help that companion transition in the most peaceful way possible.
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About Dr. Nicole Schwinkendorf, DVM, CVA

Born and raised in Edmonds, I am happy to be back in the Pacific Northwest, doing the work I love. I was late to the veterinary profession, but have always had an empathetic heart toward all creatures and the people who love them. Until recently, my compassion for animals was expressed through volunteer work and a vegan lifestyle that I continue to practice. It wasn’t until after twenty years in the software industry that I decided to pursue veterinary medicine at Washington State University. I knew from the beginning that I wanted to focus on holistic and end of life care. Dr. Sara has been a key influence along this journey, and I am thrilled to be working with her team.

As a lifelong runner who has experienced the benefits of whole food nutrition and consistent exercise, I advocate the same for my patients. I am certified in acupuncture through the Chi Institute and am happy to offer this practice, as well as Chinese herbal medicine and nutraceutical supplementation, for your pets. I particularly enjoy helping geriatric patients with mobility and chronic pain. My interest in end of life care was inspired by witnessing human hospice in a very personal way. I feel called to help pet parents navigate the difficult decisions and emotions inherent with end of life issues. When the loving decision to let a pet pass has been made, I am deeply honored to be present and to help that companion transition in the most peaceful way possible.

In-Home End of Life Care for Pets | Pet Loss Services | Pet Acupuncture | Pet Laser Therapy | Seattle Area

Dr. Ryan Black

DVM
(Pronouns he/him)
After I obtained my medical degree, I started working in a general practice setting. In the beginning, performing euthanasias was difficult for me because I strongly felt what the families that I was helping were feeling: grief, sadness, and loss. As time has gone by, my views of end-of-life have shifted slightly. I still feel the grief that is occurring during these times, but I have also begun to see that end-of-life care is a privilege to be able to participate in. It is a culmination and celebration of a well-loved life.
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About Dr. Ryan Black, DVM

Since becoming a veterinarian in 2015, end-of-life care has been a very important aspect of how I practice medicine. Having grown up with animals in the house, watching them age, and eventually pass away, I am no stranger to the feelings that grief can cause. After I obtained my medical degree, I started working in a general practice setting. In the beginning, performing euthanasias was difficult for me because I strongly felt what the families that I was helping were feeling: grief, sadness, and loss. As time has gone by, my views of end-of-life have shifted slightly. I still feel the grief that is occurring during these times, but I have also begun to see that end-of-life care is a privilege to be able to participate in. It is a culmination and celebration of a well-loved life. To see people willing to put themselves in pain to alleviate the pain their pets are experiencing is truly beautiful. I’m excited to be working for Compassion 4 Paws to be able to provide this service to families outside of a clinical setting in the comfort of people’s homes.

I received my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Washington State University in 2015.  After graduation, I got a job in general practice at a small-animal clinic in Everett where I worked for several years. Following this period, I also worked in the emergency field including a short stint working at the referral hospital Animal Medical Center of Seattle where I managed multiple complex medical cases and worked closely with a variety of specialists to help pets and families in need. The move to focus exclusively on end-of-life care was rooted in the appreciation I received from families who were forced to make these hard decisions. At multiple junctures, families expressed relief to be given the permission to let go rather than continue to treat when treatments were failing. When I realized I was good at having these conversations and saw how much pet owners appreciated the points I brought up, I realized a calling to hospice/end-of-life care which led me to Compassion 4 Paws.

Before becoming a veterinarian, I worked as a biological scientist for the Department of Homeland Security, during which I relocated from Illinois to Washington in 2006. My husband and I both call the Northwest home though neither of us grew up in the area. Like many locals, we seize opportunities to camp, hike and ski in the beautiful landscapes around us.  We share our home with two shelter pit-mixes, two stray cats, a surrendered ball python and a tarantula named Terry.  Most of the pack travels together with some frequency; the alpha dog, Clementine, has road-tripped to 15 states west of the Great Lakes.  Our senior cat, Palouse, has even taken to the road with the pack, adventuring to places like the Redwoods and Death Valley.  At home, I enjoy tending to an extensive indoor garden of tropical and desert plants, making cold-process soap, and cooking.

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Dr. Danielle Hagen

DVM, DACVIM
(Pronouns she/her)
Compassionate end-of-life care has always been a deeply valued part of my practice. While I enjoy practicing Internal Medicine, I wanted to connect with my patients and families in a more personal way that was free from the hectic pace of the hospital. It is an honor to be invited into the homes of my clients and bear witness to the deep bond they have with their pets. My goal is to ease the end-of-life transition and to provide comfort, closure, and a sense of peace.
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About Danielle Hagen, DVM, DACVIM

I grew up in Minneapolis, but am very glad to call Seattle my current home. After graduating from veterinary school at the University of Minnesota in 2013, I got my first taste of the Pacific Northwest during my rotating internship in Portland. After completing a 3-year residency at the University of Wisconsin-Madison to become board-certified in Internal Medicine, I practiced as an internist in the Bay Area for several years but missed the PNW, and moved to Seattle in 2020. I don’t miss the freezing MN winters one bit, and really love being surrounded by the green space, water, and mountains of Western Washington.

I’ve always been particularly drawn to senior pets and to pets with complex health needs. Helping clients navigate difficult decision-making for their furry family members is challenging but deeply rewarding work. I am passionate about patient-centered care, and enjoy working with clients to optimize quality of life for both their pets and their families.

Compassionate end-of-life care has always been a deeply valued part of my practice. While I enjoy practicing Internal Medicine, I wanted to connect with my patients and families in a more personal way that was free from the hectic pace of the hospital. Joining the Compassion 4 Paws team has been a gift. It is an honor to be invited into the homes of my clients and bear witness to the deep bond they have with their pets. My goal is to ease the end-of-life transition and to provide comfort, closure, and a sense of peace.

My partner and I share our home with three tabby cats: Lola, our sweet (and cranky) old lady, as well as “the twins” Leo and Petie, who still think they are silly kittens at 4 years of age. We will always be grateful to Bubba, our goofy Persian boy, as his passing allowed us to connect with the amazing members of the Compassion 4 Paws team. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, gardening, hiking, travel, and trying new restaurants.

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Julia Schoellenbach

DVM
(Pronouns she/her)
I worked in general practice for several years and I enjoyed many aspects of it, but I found myself drawn to end-of-life care. I believe that end-of-life care is as important as the medical care we give our pets during the rest of their lives. Ensuring our pets finish their lives in comfort and dignity is an essential part of our care for them, and I feel called to provide that care and help people navigate through this journey.
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About Julia Schoellenbach, DVM

I’ve lived in Washington for the past 10 years, but I grew up in California. When I was growing up I always knew I wanted to work in some capacity with animals, and that started as an interest in biology. I did my undergraduate degree at the University of California, Santa Cruz. While I was there, I felt called away from academia and towards veterinary medicine, where it felt like I would be helping people and pets more directly. I got my DVM at Western University in Southern California. I graduated in 2008, moved to the Pacific Northwest shortly after, and started work in general practice.

I worked in general practice for several years and I enjoyed many aspects of it, but I found myself drawn to end-of-life care. I believe that end-of-life care is as important as the medical care we give our pets during the rest of their lives. Ensuring our pets finish their lives in comfort and dignity is an essential part of our care for them, and I feel called to provide that care and help people navigate through this journey. I want peoples’ memories of their pet’s last days to be peaceful and full of love. I feel honored to be a part of these final moments, and I am so happy to be a part of the wonderful team at Compassion 4 Paws.

I live in Seattle with my husband, our three kids, our terrier Rogue, and a flock of backyard chickens. When I’m not practicing vet med, I enjoy hiking with my family, designing and knitting sweaters, playing roller derby, weight lifting, and baking.

Shawnee Neubauer

Practice Manager, Care Coordinator and Certified Pet Loss Bereavement Specialist
(Pronouns she/her)
Whether I was working in veterinary medicine directly, or just volunteering my time and services to various rescue organizations – animal health and wellness has always been my greatest passion. I am so honored to assist you and your family through the end of life journey with your beloved pet.
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About Shawnee Neubauer, Practice Manager and Care Coordinator

I began my career in veterinary medicine when I was just 18 years old. Over the next several years, my dedication and experience helped me to evolve from being a kennel assistant to a veterinary technician, and eventually to a practice manager for a group of small animal hospitals located just outside of Phoenix, Arizona, where I stayed for many years. As life took my family and I to several states around the western US, I continued my commitment to helping pets and their families. Whether I was working in veterinary medicine directly, or just volunteering my time and services to various rescue organizations – animal health and wellness has always been my greatest passion.

I happened upon my position with Compassion 4 Paws when I had to call Dr. Sara out to our home to help us say goodbye to our heart dog, Bud. It was such an emotional time and we were utterly devastated. But, to see first-hand the gift that in-home euthanasia provided to our sweet boy (and us) that night, I knew it was something I had to be a part of. I am so honored to assist you and your family through the end of life journey with your beloved pet.

My husband and I now reside in Northern Colorado where we enjoy the great outdoors with our two amazing rescue pups: our border collie Jack, and our Maremma Sheepdog, Lukas. I also enjoy volunteering with the Colorado Master Gardeners Program and Mountain Pet Rescue whenever I can.

In-Home End of Life Care for Pets | Pet Loss Services | Pet Acupuncture | Pet Laser Therapy | Seattle Area

Tasha Denison

Care Coordinator Team Lead, Hospice Support and Certified Pet Loss Bereavement Specialist
(Pronouns she/her)
I am incredibly thankful to have found my calling with Compassion 4 Paws. I strive to help families through their most difficult times and hope to make their transition as smooth as it can possibly be.
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About Tasha Denison, Care Coordinator

I knew from a young age that I wanted to work with animals. At 18 my passion became a reality when I began working at a veterinary practice. Over the years, I had opportunity to travel to different veterinary hospitals to better my team building skills, client education and improve staff morale when needed.

I am incredibly thankful to have found my calling with Compassion 4 Paws. I strive to help families through their most difficult times and hope to make their transition as smooth as it can possibly be. It is a true blessing to work with such an amazing team who are equally as passionate about the relationship between people and their beloved pets.

In my spare time, I enjoy lounging in the sun with my friends, going to Mariners Games and traveling with my family.

In-Home End of Life Care for Pets | Pet Loss Services | Pet Acupuncture | Pet Laser Therapy | Seattle Area

Eliza Berry

Aftercare Center Manager and Certified Pet Loss Bereavement Specialist
(Pronouns she/her)
I truly value the bond we have with our pets, and having experienced saying goodbye to my beloved 15-year-old dog Willie in my home, I am grateful to be a part of the Compassion 4 Paws team helping others through this same experience.
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About Eliza Berry, Care Coordinator

I have been dedicated to the care of pets and their human companions in Washington State for over 20 years. At the age of 17, I started working in emergency clinics and general practices as a veterinary assistant and lead client service coordinator. After earning my degree in Biology from UW in 2015, I transitioned to human health care where I worked for 2.5 years as a patient service representative providing between visit care. I am happy to once again be a part of the field I am passionate about and continue my work with animals. I truly value the bond we have with our pets, and having experienced saying goodbye to my beloved dog Willie in my home, I am grateful to be a part of the Compassion 4 Paws team helping others through this same experience.

In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my kitties Xena, Wombat and George Boots, jogging, traveling with my husband and being a devout Seattle Sounders soccer and Husky football fan!

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Maria Hanson

Care Coordinator and Hospice Support
(Pronouns she/her)
It means so much to me to be a part of a team that cares so deeply for pets and their people, and puts so much work into making their crossing over the rainbow bridge as easy as possible.
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Maria Hanson, Care Coordinator

I have been working as a client care coordinator inside of a vet clinic for the last 4 years. While I absolutely loved seeing so many healthy young dog and cat patients, I’ve always felt extra connected to the sick and/or older patients and their owners. I’ve heard from many pet parents about how special their experience with Compassion 4 Paws was on one of the hardest days of their lives. I decided that it was time for a change of pace and I knew exactly where I wanted to go. It means SO much to me to be a part of a team that cares so deeply for pets and their people, and puts so much work into making their crossing over the rainbow bridge as easy as possible.

When I'm not working, I enjoy spending time with my husband playing card games, and learning how to cook all sorts of international cuisine. We have a 6 year old tuxedo cat named Oskar who is hilarious, loving, and far too spoiled.

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Christine Pacile

Care Coordinator
(Pronouns she/her)
My time spent in the veterinary field has proven to me that animals are the most perfect souls on earth and there is no one else I’d rather work with. My life’s path has branched yet again, and led me to Compassion 4Paws. Here I hope to bring my customer service background AND my love of animals full circle.
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About Christine Pacile, Care Coordinator

Moving to Washington State from New York after 35+ years in customer service, has afforded me the chance to change my life for the better in so many ways. Dedicating myself to helping animals and their humans is one of them. My time spent in the veterinary field has proven to me that animals are the most perfect souls on earth and there is no one else I’d rather work with. My life’s path has branched yet again, and led me to Compassion 4Paws. Here I hope to bring my customer service background AND my love of animals full circle.

My dachshund Larry and my lil’ Chiweenie Opal are the light of my life. They have come to love Washington and it’s mild winters as much as I do! And we have befriended many wonderful people and pets on our Washington journey which only adds to our happiness. Oh yes! And with all the Mini Cooper car clubs, book stores and fabulous vegan restaurants out here…we have definitely come to the right place!.

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Hannah Renbarger

Care Coordinator
(Pronouns she/her)
After the losses of my own pets, I realized how important the comfort and dignity of our furry family's last days really are, and it quickly became a passion of mine; to help others in their pet's last days
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About Hannah Renbarger, Care Coordinator

I was born and raised in Florida and called Seattle my home in 2007. I have been in the veterinary industry since 2004, mostly in general practice. After the losses of my own pets, I realized how important the comfort and dignity of our furry family's last days really are, and it quickly became a passion of mine; to help others in their pets last days.

My husband, Jacob, and I are rabid Sounders fans. We share our home with 2 lovely lady cats, Domino & Sparta, and a rambunctious little man-cat, Grover. In my free time, I enjoy sewing, jigsaw puzzles, and naps. Go Sounders!

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Emily Crawford

Care Coordinator
(Pronouns she/they)
I want to help everyone, whether animal or human, in their best and their worst. I have always had a passion for animals. I strive to be an advocate for them and to make sure they are happy and comfortable.
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About Emily Crawford, Care Coordinator

I have always been a caring and kind soul. I want to help everyone, whether animal or human, in their best and their worst. I have always had a passion for animals. I strive to be an advocate for them and to make sure they are happy and comfortable. Whether that may be beside them, giving them love, or on the phone helping their fur-parents deal with the toughest decision of their life, I am more than happy to help in any way that I can.

I have 2 cats of my own and preparing for a puppy to terrorize my home. I like arts and crafts and often find myself amidst a portrait of someone's pet or painting scenery. I am nothing without my creativity and being covered in my cats hair. I love adventures to anywhere. Put me in the mountains, or in a farmers market, I'm happy with the experience!

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Sheila Wilson

Care Coordinator
(Pronouns she/her)
I am so honored to be a part of the Compassion 4 Paws team. I'm so grateful to have the ability to comfort people and their pets at home with loved ones in a place they've always known and are familiar with.
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About Sheila Wilson, Care Coordinator

I am so honored to be a part of the Compassion 4 Paws team. I'm so grateful to have the ability to comfort people and their pets at home with loved ones in a place they've always known and are familiar with. After working 4+ yrs at a veterinary hospital, I always sympathized with the families that struggle to bring their loved ones to an unknown scary place.

Working with the elderly and hospice care for 29 years, I always knew that I wanted to work with pets and their families. Comfortably surrounded by caring people at the time that they need us the most.

I enjoy hanging out with my husband, two grown kids, and of course Hansel & Gretel, our Chihuahua mixes, and our sweet 18-year-old cat Rainbows. As Seattle natives we love camping on the Olympic Peninsula as a family.

In-Home End of Life Care for Pets | Pet Loss Services | Pet Acupuncture | Pet Laser Therapy | Seattle Area

Dennis Hopkins

Logistics
(Pronouns he/him)
I assist with the day-to-day operations at Compassion 4 Paws making sure the team is equipped to help people and the pets they love.
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About Dennis Hopkins, Logistics

I’m grateful to say I was able to create a thriving remodeling business from the ground up, one that focused on integrity, efficiency and environmental stewardship – all of which are very important to me.

When Sara began to consider leaving general veterinary practice to start Compassion 4 Paws, I realized the potential for helping people and their beloved pets in this type of in-home care. At that time I decided to retire my remodeling business and began focusing more on Compassion 4 Paws. As I watched the practice grow, I began to recognize some of the business insufficiencies that were time consuming and cumbersome for the doctors as well as the care coordinators. I applied my project management skills and rallied a team of consultants and software developers to create a software application for mobile hospice veterinarians to make the business side of their practice more efficient . And that was the start of REX Veterinary Software. I also assist with the day-to-day operations at Compassion 4 Paws making sure the team is equipped to help the people and the pets they love.

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Mike Grabham

Business Development
(Pronouns he/him)
About 6 months after meeting Sara and Dennis, I needed to have Compassion 4 Paws help my wife and I say goodbye to our cat. It was then that I realized that in-home euthanasia is a very valuable service for pet owners that they may not know exists. I joined the Compassion 4 Paws team to help build the foundation for future growth, and it has been a fun journey thus far.
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About Mike Grabham, Business Development

I assist Compassion 4 Paws with processes and procedures that allow our team to be more effective, have some fun, and get things done all at the same time-yes you can do them all!

By nature, I am a curious leader who, being a 6x founder, has experienced success, failure, and everything in-between. I spend my time coaching, consulting, and helping founders of businesses that are at the high-growth stage. My goal is to help them avoid the mistakes that I have learned from in my personal experience, that slow or stall growth. About 6 months after meeting Sara and Dennis, I had to have Compassion 4 Paws help me say goodbye to my own pet. It was then that I realized that in-home euthanasia is a very valuable service for pet owners that they may not know exists. I joined the Compassion 4 Paws team to help build the foundation for future growth, and it has been a fun journey thus far.

I enjoy spending my free time wine tasting with my wife accompanied by our dog Gage, while our cat Vegas stays at home.

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Robert Hanson

Aftercare Specialist
(Pronouns he/him)
After hearing so many heartwarming stories from my wife (Maria Hanson) about Compassion 4 Paws, and the positive impact they have on families going through some of their toughest moments, I knew this was something that I wanted to be a part of. Knowing that I can help ensure families and their pets are respected and cared for at such a crucial moment means a lot to me.
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About Robert Hanson, Aftercare Specialist

After hearing so many heartwarming stories from my wife (Maria Hanson) about Compassion 4 Paws, and the positive impact they have on families going through some of their toughest moments, I knew this was something that I wanted to be a part of. Knowing that I can help ensure families and their pets are respected and cared for at such a crucial moment means a lot to me.

I have lived in Washington most of my life, thoroughly enjoying our wide variety of ecosystems via walks and drives. I like to stargaze when the weather permits. I enjoy games with too many details, like Magic The Gathering, to try and challenge my brain. I enjoy a good story (usually conveyed via TV or film), I’m the one people go to when they forget an actor’s name! Above all else, I adore spending time with my wife, Maria, and our cat (who is more like a dog), Oskar, who we hope to get harness trained to enjoy the outdoors alongside us!

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Holly Schwichtenberg

Aftercare Specialist
(Pronouns she/her)
“As humans we will all experience loss and grief. As a hospice foster and animal caregiver, much of my life has been dedicated to caring for companion animals throughout their life and end-of-life process. So it’s only natural that I’ve aligned my career with the opportunity to work as part of the team here at Compassion4Paws. It is said that grief is one of the truest expressions of how much we have loved. I’m so grateful and proud to be a part of such a dedicated team of individuals who assist people who love their pets, during times of grief by helping create a beautiful bridge- a bridge built to carry their loved ones from this life, on into the eternal peace that is the afterlife. In my spare time, I enjoy living life to the fullest with my partner as we road trip, swim, and ride our bicycles all over Washington. I also enjoy collecting records, reading, listening to music, and volunteering to rehabilitate (injured and orphaned) wildlife.
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About Ollie Santana, Aftercare Specialist

I have had many experiences with end-of-life care with my own pets, while I was in the veterinary field, and it all has truly helped me realize what a strong passion I have for helping others during such an emotional but important time. I am honored to be apart of a team that is so focused on the comfort of you and your family

When I’m not involved with any projects at the center, I try to spend my time trying to create art in many different forms- painting, sketching, digital art, and even using hair and skin as a medium. I also love to be active in my community- whether that’s attending any of the local art and food markets, PNW LGTBQA+ events, camping and hiking on the many trails with my dog (and my cat on a harness), or even skating full time with my local roller derby team.

Our Partner

In-Home End of Life Care for Pets | Pet Loss Services | Pet Acupuncture | Pet Laser Therapy | Seattle Area

We partner with West Coast Pet Memorial Services for all our flame-based cremations. They understand your experience of loss and will walk alongside you during your grief to ensure that you and your precious family member will be treated with the love and respect you deserve.

West Coast Pet Memorial Services

We love our pet community and show our support by donating a portion of revenue from each appointment to one of our favorite nonprofits