Laura Cabanilla, J.D. Board Chair
- Where did you grow up? I grew up all over the U.S. as well as Canada and Mexico. We moved almost yearly. My dad was in the military for part of that time, and also in medical school which took us all over. I’ve appreciated that I love so many different cultures and peoples, which I gained from my childhood.
- Tell us about your education: I went to three different high schools, but graduated in El Paso, Texas. I attended Brigham Young University and got a degree in English and Military Science (I was a member of ROTC in college), I later attended law school at BYU and got a law degree.
- How did you develop a passion for the healing power of animals? I have always loved animals, and I’ve always felt a special connection with them. Losing an animal is always hard, and for me, going through that has only made me value animals and my connections with them more. Animals have been an important part of my life, and I’ve seen the healing connections they can make with others as well.
- What do you do for Utah Pet Partners? I serve on the board. After several years of Board service, my team partner Moses and I have become certified! We are very excited to help the community.
- What’s your day job? I am an attorney.
- Tell us about your family and hobbies. I have been married to my husband Dave since we were both in college and very young. He is an airline pilot and frequently travels, so I have become a pretty independent person. We have four children: triplets and one just two years younger. They are all adults now, but it has always been a fun group since everyone was so close in age. I have seven grandchildren now who are all delightful, and they love my animals too: Moses, Mochi, our parrot Bilbo, and several cats and Blue Jays who visit my porch where I leave cat food out. I love cooking, spending time with family, painting, and of course, spending time with my furry and feathered friends.
