Karen graduated nursing school in 1981 and spent the majority of her nursing career working with high-risk obstetrical patients in both the inpatient and home care settings. Frustrated with long-term hospitalizations of high-risk pregnancies, Karen opened the first high risk Perinatal Center in Denver that provided uterine monitoring services for women experiencing premature labor in the home setting. This allowed the expectant Mom to have her labor monitored from home using a uterine contraction monitor with a modem, rather than be hospitalized for long periods of time. 

While on the waiting list for a show puppy to pursue one of her long time dream of competing in the canine world, Karen noticed a need for home obstetrical support in the veterinary world. 

After successfully obtaining 2 patents for methods of monitoring fetal heart rates and uterine contractions in non-human mammals, she formed her company; Veterinary Perinatal Specialties Inc. Veterinary Perinatal Specialties provides products and services that support animal breeders in the home setting. 

The WhelpWise service, designed for canine breeders is offered on an international basis, as well as obstetrical product sales such as ultrasound Dopplers and other hard to find items. 

Karen is also an avid dog enthusiast and breeder herself. She has to date owner handled 6 of her Airedale Terriers (Airetail Airedales) to Championships, as well as titles in Obedience and Agility.