Vet Serves in Alexandria, VA

Dr. Derecka Alexander

Verified Veterinarian

22 reviews

Why I provide at-home pet euthanasia

I understand the heartache of saying goodbye to a beloved pet firsthand. During my rigorous studies at LSU, I navigated the loss of my childhood companion, Creasy. This personal experience fuels my dedication to ensuring a peaceful transition for every furry family member, turning moments of sorrow into moments of comfort and relief.

Education

Undergraduate: Louisiana State University - 2011

Veterinary Medicine: Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine - 2018

  • Based InArlington, VA
  • Service areasArlington, VA and surrounding areas
  • Work Experience7+ years
  • Animals ServedAll Dogs & Cats
  • Notice Required2 hours

General availability

Friday10:00 am - 7:00 pm

Availability each week can vary based on demand and scheduling. Please provide a minimum 2 hour advance notice for all bookings.

Services provided

At home pet euthanasia

Dr. Derecka Alexander will help your beloved pet transition peacefully in the comfort of of their home, surrounded by loved ones

Est. CostStarting at $375

Pet cremation

Dr. Derecka Alexander will arrange and handle all of your cremation needs, including careful and loving transportation of your pet to the crematorium through private or communal process handled

Est. CostFrom $100 - $600

Keepsakes

Clay paw prints, wooden urns with personalizations available with ashes returned

Est. CostFrom $25 - $70

Quality of life consult

Schedule a 1-on-1 with a vet over a virtual conference call or at home.

Est. CostStarting at $150

What pet parents are saying

It has been very difficult and sad since my soul dog passed but I have comfort in knowing that with Dr. Alexander’s help my dog transitioned in peace, with dignity, and without fear. Dr. Alexander was compassionate, understanding, and respectful throughout the appointment and created safe space for my beloved dog to pass in comfort. Dr. Alexander treated my dog with gentleness, kindness, and care. The decision with my dog’s passing was difficult to make but I feel that doing it in my home where my dog felt at ease was the best decision for my dog and my family.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 12 2025 by Christina H.
Review by Dr. Derecka Alexander

Dr. Alexander was wonderful and I cannot thank her enough for helping me peacefully say goodbye to my very beloved cat and best friend of 16 years in the comfort of our home. I was worried as she was a very shy cat, but Dr. Alexander was patient and understanding and she was able to administer the sedative while my cat was calmly in my lap. Then we had her rest on a blanket once everything took effect for the rest of the procedure. The doctor even sent her sympathies in a handwritten card and hand-delivered the cremains and pawprints to me (I had ordered an extra). I was amazed at the beauty of the mementos. First a cut of her fur was placed in a small jar which she placed near a picture I had laid out. The cylinder urn is beautiful, navy blue with silver pawprints. The pawprint came lovingly displayed in a leather box that doubles as a photo frame when closed. Each came in a velvet bag. Finally, I just wanted to express my appreciation for Dr. Alexander and CodaPet for allowing me to book such an emotional procedure online when it was difficult to speak without crying, and for having late hours available even on a weekday. You came through for us when we needed it the most so my family could all be there together to say goodbye. Thank you.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 13 2024 by Melanie P
Review by Dr. Derecka Alexander

Dr. Alexander was compassionate, gentle, patient, and knowledgeable. She carefully explained everything that was going to happen, and took the time to make sure that my 11 year old nephew understood and felt included in the process as well. She made sure I had the time I needed with my cat as he was dying. Thank you to Dr. Alexander and Coda Pet. I am forever grateful that I could say goodbye to my cat at home.

codapet review
5.0
Nov 19 2024 by Jamie Poulton
Review by Jamie Poulton
Dr. Derecka Alexander profile picture

This was the hardest thing we have ever had to do but Dr. Alexander was calm and comforting. She was super professional and explained the process and let us take our time saying goodbye.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 15 2025 by Ashling T.
Review by Dr. Derecka Alexander

Dr. Derecka Alexander was very helpful and caring in our time of need. We had to say goodbye to a young boy battling health issues and Dr was very calming, supportive and informative with all of our care. Being able to do it in the comfort of his space for a 100+ lb boy was a big deal for us and him. We really appreciate Dr Alexander

codapet review
5.0
Apr 14 2025 by Michael L.
Review by Michael L.
Dr. Derecka Alexander profile picture

Dr. Alexander helped make a very sad occasion as smooth as could be. She was very compassionate and helpful through a very emotional process.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 24 2025 by Daniele C.
Review by Dr. Derecka Alexander