Vet Serves in Alexandria, VA

Dr. Derecka Alexander

Verified Veterinarian

29 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

Certifications

1

CAETA's CPEV (Certified Peaceful Euthanasia Veterinarian)

 CAETA's CPEV (Certified Peaceful Euthanasia Veterinarian)
  • Based InArlington, VA
  • Service areasArlington, VA and surrounding areas
  • Work Experience7+ years
  • Animals ServedAll Dogs & Cats
  • Notice Required2 hours

General availability

Sunday12:00 pm - 6:45 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

She was very compassionate and thoughtful… with a great deal of respect and care for our pet. My daughter was engaged in the procedure and the doctor explained each step with patience and sympathy. Strongly recommend her for anyone wanting in home care.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 17 2025 by Matt S.
Review by Dr. Derecka Alexander

Dr. Derecka Alexander went “the extra mile” to make the “at home pet euthanasia” of our 14 year old retriever mix Lilly as comforting as possible for our family. She arrived very prepared with all of her equipment and immediately, gracefully and professionally took charge of a very emotional situation. She could see that Lilly was stressed and was able to calm her before she began the procedure. She created a peaceful setting with the soothing music and answered in detail all of our questions. Dr. Alexander made the sad and grief stricken passing of our Lilly a beautiful blessing. Thank you Dr. Alexander, your knowledge, organization, compassion and communication make you an outstanding Veterinarian and fellow human being.

codapet review
5.0
Feb 06 2025 by scjordan1
Review by scjordan1
Dr. Derecka Alexander profile picture

Dr. Alexander was professional and kind. Charlotte, my dear cat, was calm and died with dignity in a place where she felt safe and loved.

codapet review
5.0
Mar 01 2025 by Caroline S.
Review by Dr. Derecka Alexander

Dr. Alexander was incredible. In such a sad situation, she was calm, kind, knowledgeable, understanding, empathetic and communicative. I’m very grateful to have had her managing such a difficult experience for my family and me.

codapet review
5.0
Nov 15 2025 by Frances M.
Review by Frances M.
Dr. Derecka Alexander profile picture

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

The hallmark channel could not have casted a better character to come to our home and perform this service. This type of procedure requires a very special skillset of compassionate care and we are glad Dr. Alexander shared that with us, she truly has a gift.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 27 2025 by David B.
Review by Dr. Derecka Alexander