Roger Blankfein, DVM

Each pet has a family who loves it and these people need a supportive and caring doctor to see to it that their pet, and they, are treated with dignity, respect and the utmost compassion. The attention I’ve provided my own pets when they were euthanized at home is the same level of care I strive to provide all pets.

All of my pets came to me in need. My two cats (Muffy and Puss Puss) were surrendered by their elderly owner who loved them, but could no longer keep them. My dog, Gavin (pictured at left), was seized when his owner was arrested (and subsequently convicted) for animal cruelty. Pictured throughout this website are pets that have been in my life in recent years.

I graduated from the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine in 2003 and have worked in private small animal practice as well as several animal shelters across the country. As medical director for one humane society, in addition to performing surgery and tending to the medical needs of homeless animals, I trained several euthanasia technicians not only in the technical aspects of the procedure, but also in how to compassionately perform this necessary task in accordance with the spirit of a humane organization.

In addition to providing this service full time, I keep my feet wet in animal shelter medicine and private practice filling in when needed. I also regularly volunteer for an animal welfare group and a free-roaming cat spay and neuter organization and have served on their boards of directors.

I maintain membership in the American Veterinary Medical Association, the New York State Veterinary Medical Society, Veterinary Information Network, International Association for Animal Hospice and Palliative Care, and the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement.

Amanda Craig, DVM, MPH

As Veterinarians, we are sworn, among other things, to prevent and relieve animal suffering. Making the decision for euthanasia is one of the most difficult choices we are faced with as pet owners. I am here to help when the time comes to ensure your furry family member passes peacefully in the comfort of their own homes.

I graduated from Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2016 and have since worked in private small animal practice here in Upstate New York. I just recently started part-time work with Dr. Roger at In the Comfort of Home. Additionally, I am an active volunteer in both local and international programs helping to promote preventive care for animals and the protection of public health.

In my free time, I enjoy being outdoors with my two dogs Guinness and Miller (pictured left, thinking “we better be getting treats after this!”) and my Belgian horse Dahlia.

Active memberships include: the American Veterinary Medical Association, the New York State Veterinary Medical Society, Veterinary Information Network, and the American Association of Public Health Veterinarians.

Trish Daly, DVM

As a child I grew up in an apartment building that did not allow pets. Any time I was able to have contact with dogs or cats was such a thrill for me, and I decided at a very young age that working in the veterinary field was what I was eager to pursue. I graduated from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1989, and worked in small animal private practice until 2000. At that point II started working with a veterinary pharmaceutical company as a veterinary medical liaison. My role was primarily educational, teaching veterinary teams and veterinary students about a wide variety of medical, surgical, as well as wellness issues in dogs and cats.

Avoiding fear-provoking situations for pets is so important to me as veterinary behavior is a passion of mine. When a family has made the difficult decision to say goodbye to their beloved pet, being able to have your final moments with them at home, at peace and in comfortable surroundings is such a kindness.

The dog I am pictured with was my beloved Tess, who passed in the comfort of home at the age of fourteen.

Currently I am a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, and received certification from HABRI (Human Animal Bond Research Institute) and IHC (Institute for Healthcare Communication).

Gonzalo Diaz, DVM

When I had the opportunity to meet Dr. Roger and learn about his practice, I realized how important of a role they play when a difficult decision like this happens. I’m very excited to join this team and help pursue their goal of making this hard time as relaxing and comfortable as possible for our furry friends and their close ones.

I was born and raised in Chile, grew up between dogs and horses. I practiced for a year and a half in Chile and then moved to the states. After 21 years of mixed animal practice I feel very fortunate I’ve been able to provide this service for them and their families in the most peaceful way we can.

I am a current member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Association of Equine Practitioners. Pictured in the photo is my one and only Tebow ( the first dog I adopted when I moved to the US) . In my free time I enjoy anything that is outdoors and especially if it includes our 3 dogs (Cora, Sage and Bruno).

Gwen Hood, DVM, CHPV

Last year I chose to have In the Comfort of Home come and help me say “goodbye” to my best boy, Wally. His passing was so peaceful, I knew I wanted to help other families have the same experience when the time comes for their furry loved ones.

After graduating from Ross University in 2011, and completing a yearlong internship outside of Chicago in 2012, I returned to my hometown in Upstate NY. Since 2012, I have practiced at veterinary clinics around the Capital Region. I have always had a special place in my heart for senior pets and end of life care, which led me to completing training in the Human-Animal Bond in 2018 and certification in animal hospice and palliative care through the IAAHPC in 2021.

I am honored to work with the caring team at In the Comfort of Home, and to help area families have a peaceful, stress-free experience when it comes time to say good-bye to their beloved pet.

In my free time I enjoy traveling, golfing, painting, and spending time with my family and pets (three cats: Georgia, Jelly, and Peanut Butter, and dog: Peppa, pictured).

Active Memberships: American Veterinary Medical Association, International Association of Animal Hospice and Palliative Care.

Katie Tuffey, VMD

When I graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in 2003, I thought I would work Emergency forever. Seventeen years, two children, and a small farm (complete with chickens, horses, dogs, cats, a donkey and several fish) later, I still work part time at the Emergency Clinic, but I also have spent five years in general practice. In my spare time, you’re probably most likely to find me at the barn, but we can be seen hiking or just enjoying being outdoors.

I’ve said goodbye to my first true love – a cat named Palmer – who was brought into the first vet hospital I ever worked after he was thrown from a car, but thrived with me until he was lost to cancer. And there was Kyah, a mixed breed dog who we adopted at two years of age from the humane society. Sadly, there have been others too, but they have all died at home, in their space, with comfort and no fear.

When I’m asked how we do what we do, it’s because I firmly believe it is a blessing to provide a peaceful and dignified passing to our cherished pets. To be able to provide that in the comfort of home is even more special and I am honored to join Dr. Roger’s team.

Active memberships : American Veterinary Medical Association and Veterinary Information Network.