- Based InBerlin, MD
- Service areasSalisbury, MD and surrounding areas
- Work Experience41+ years
- Animals ServedAll Dogs & Cats, Small Mammals (includes rats, ham ...
- Notice Required2 hours
General availability
Monday9:45 am - 4:45 pm
Availability each week can vary based on demand and scheduling. Please provide a minimum 2 hour advance notice for all bookings.
Why I provide at-home pet euthanasia
Whenever possible, people want to be able to go home from the hospital for their remaining days, to die at home. Families want the same for their pets. As in-home pet euthanasia has finally become a viable option, I knew I could add value to the euthanasia experience because of my veterinary experience and my compassion for those pet parents who are deeply grieved over the loss of their four-legged family member. I see this as my calling, to care for the members of my local community.
Education
Undergraduate: BSA University of Georgia - 1980
Veterinary Medicine: DVM University of Georgia - 1984 MS and Residency University of Illinois - 1997
Certifications
2Maryland Veterinary Medical Association Member (MDVMA), CAETA's CPEV (Certified Peaceful Euthanasia Veterinarian)
- Based InBerlin, MD
- Service areasSalisbury, MD and surrounding areas
- Work Experience41+ years
- Animals ServedAll Dogs & Cats, Small Mammals (includes rats, ham ...
- Notice Required2 hours
General availability
Monday9:45 am - 4:45 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. Karen Duncan will help your beloved pet transition peacefully in the comfort of of their home, surrounded by loved ones
Est. CostStarting at $340
Keepsakes
Clay paw prints, wooden urns with personalizations available with ashes returned
Est. CostStarting at $55
Quality of life consult
Schedule a 1-on-1 with a vet over a virtual conference call or at home.
Est. CostStarting at $125
What pet parents are saying
There is nobody better we could have hoped for to be with us and our dog Riley at the end. Karen was immensely compassionate, professional, and accommodating when the time came. Her bio says that she feels a calling to this work and the amount of comfort and warmth she offered us on that difficult evening will stay with us forever. Words fall short to express the amount of gratitude that we feel to Karen for her assistance. It is clear that, to anyone who has a pet that they consider family, there is nobody better suited in our area than Dr Karen Duncan to care for your loved one on that painful, sad day, as if they were her own. Thank you for everything Karen!
Karen was so sincere! She helped us make the decision because Lola was suffering! I highly recommend Karen and I have told several people about her kindness!
Dr. Karen is an angel of mercy. There is nothing easy about deciding the best act of love you can give a beloved pet is to release it from suffering. From the moment she arrived into our home Dr. Karen offered compassion and professionalism as she guided us through Earl Grey’s peaceful passing. I am grateful Earl Grey was held in love in his own home for his final moments. I will never forget Dr. Karen’s tenderness in helping me through my heart break.
The day finally came, and Dr.Duncan was truly a savior. She was calming, explained the process, and allowed us to share Otis’ stories and quirks. Thank you Dr.Duncan, you really made our goodbye a peaceful experience. And for that, we are very grateful.
Dr. Karen Duncan was the most sensitive, caring and gentle person we could have had to put our dear Moet down. Having this done in our home was so less stressful both for her and for us than taking her to a vet's office. She carefully explained everything beforehand and as she went through the process. Afterward she carefully wrapped our little one in a cozy blanket and put her in a soft basket. We couldn't be more grateful. Thank you so much, Karen.
Dr. Karen was very compassionate and understanding in such a difficult time. It was one of the hardest things I have ever done. I was very fortunate to have Dr. Karen help me at this time.
Dr. Karen was wonderful. I called her an angel on earth. She was so kind, loving and calming. She was so sweet with our 18 y/o Himalayan cat Cymba. Having her come to our home was very special. She made a terrible moment in time beautiful and peaceful for our cat and for us. We were very emotional and she gave us our time and guided us through the process. Cymba was very ready, very sick and at the end of life. She told us we were giving him a beautiful gift. I appreciated those words more than she will ever know. I don't wish anyone to lose their furry loved ones but if the time comes I highly recommend Dr. Karen.
In-home pet euthanasia. Saying good-bye to Micky was one of the most difficult days of my life. Dr. Karen arrived at our home and I could tell she was heaven sent. Her warmth, caring and concern from the moment we met was comforting. She was in contact with us a few days prior to help us prepare. Even though Micky was somewhat sedated already, she greeted him with a soft touch and a quiet hello. He even gave her a really good side stretch. We sat and chatted about our life with Micky until it was time. The three step process was gentle and quiet. We held Micky's head and petted him though the whole process. He went so quietly and peacefully. Since we were having him cremated, Dr. Karen had a small stretcher to carry him out on. The stretcher as covered in the softest, comfiest blanket. We wrapped Micky in it and he was carried out to her car. When we went out to say good-bye to Micky one more time, she had placed a remembrance sign and stone near him. It was perfect and he was at peace. If you choose to have Dr. Karen come to your home, I highly recommend Coda Pet services.
Dr. Duncan is so compassionate and caring and made such a heartbreaking experience a little easier to bear. We made the difficult decision to put down our senior kitty Angus, and we knew we wanted him to be comfortable at home and with his family when he passed over the rainbow bridge. I called CodaPet late on a Friday afternoon and Karen called us back within 20 minutes. She was able to come to our home later the same day and she was just amazing. Karen put us at ease, explained the process, and treated Angus as if he was her own. If you are contemplating having your per euthanized at home, I would highly recommend Dr. Duncan and CodaPet. The extra expense is priceless.
Dr. Karen Duncan was amazing to work with. She made a horrible time very peaceful. She is such a compassionate person who walks you through the process. I highly recommend her services when the need arrives. Thank you Dr. Karen
Dr. Karen made our very difficult moment so much easier to endure. She felt like family as we said goodbye to our baby girl. Very professional and kind. I recommend her verbally to anyone as it comes up in convo. Highly recommend.❤️
Karen Duncan is an awesome vet! She was very caring, compassionate and understanding! I felt like I was with a good friend! I can’t say enough about her kindness and I highly recommend her services !
It is an extremely difficult time when putting a pet down after 20 years. Dr. Dunkin is very empathetic and made the process as easy as it could be. I would not hesitate to recommend her to a friend or family member if needed.
Dr. Karen Duncan handled my dog’s situation with such compassion and care, making what was a particularly difficult day much easier. Scheduling was a breeze and she reached out ahead of time to see if I had questions about the process.
I will be forever thankful for how gentle, kind and caring she was. Also, her availability on a short notice. She was very professional and experienced.
Dr. Karen Duncan is a loving beautiful soul, an angel. Words cannot express our sincere gratitude. She was so kind, caring and compassionate walking us through the entire process. Having to euthanize a fur baby is one of the hardest things to do. Dr. Karen understood how hard this was for us to lose our sweet 16-year-old kitty, Mickey. She took the time to listen, let us share how special our fur baby Mickey was/is. Her presence and demeanor made all of us feel comfortable. We were able to pet Mickey and love him up in his last final moments – a true blessing as we know he passed peacefully and gracefully. Dr. Karen gave us time to say one last final goodbye, making sure his younger brothers and sister had time to say goodbye as well. She then, with the utmost of kindness, wrapped Mickey in a blanket and placed him in a beautiful basket. We highly recommend Dr. Karen and Codapet to anyone who loves their pet as family and is faced with the difficult decision to euthanize.
We originally had an appointment with another in home euthanasia that was 5 days away and when we knew our beloved Charlie wasn’t going to make it that long I did a google search and found CodaPet and Dr. Karen. It was late at night and I was able to make an appointment for the next day. It is so hard saying goodbye but Dr Karen made it the best it could be. She explained everything and had the best bed side manners. She was so caring and empathetic! I would highly recommend Dr Karen Duncan and CodaPet. Thank you! 🐾🌈
Her compassion to our beloved dog, our family and remaining 4 legged pets was above and beyond giving all of us time to grieve our loss and say our goodbyes. She was an angel in our journey.
Karen Duncan was a true blessing during this difficult time and I feel so blessed to have had her in those final moments! She is best! And I thank her so very much!
Dr. Karen Duncan was extremely compassionate and caring. Her presence was greatly appreciated and very comforting. She was wonderful with our Duchess and made the most difficult decision of pet ownership a little bit easier with her professionalism and genuine concern. Her warm and welcome manner makes you feel comforted during the most stressful and challenging time for the whole family.
Karen was awesome! Very compassionate and kind. It’s a very difficult decision to make and she was caring and genuine throughout the whole process and I really appreciate that we could do it Marney’s favorite area of the house. Thank you again Karen!!
My Girl Chloe was a cherished family member. Unfortunately, her health had declined and we had to make a life ending decision that was very upsetting for everyone. We could not bear to take her anywhere to have the euthanasia done. We thought it was important to have this done at home where she is most comfortable. The in-home pet euthanasia was done by Dr. Karen Duncan. We had not met Karen, but when she came, she immediately put us at ease. She took her time with Chloe, and was very compassionate and understanding. She was here with us for at least an hour and explained the process in detail allowing time for us to absorb the procedure as needed. She then wrapped Chloe up in a warm blanket and transported her with TLC. I cannot say enough about Karen and the process that was done at our house. It gave us complete privacy, a special time to spend with Chloe and the opportunity to send her off in a very quiet, compassionate, and cherished way. Karen is obviously a special person to provide a service for those families having separation anxiety from their cherished pets. We appreciate all that was done to help us send Chloe off in a quiet and dignified way. We would highly recommend this, if you want that special time helping that cherished family member cross the Rainbow Bridge!
Very professional. She understood the how hard this was. I sincerely appreciated her compassion and empathy. I would recommend her to anyone who is faced with this very tough decision.
Dr. Karen is an extremely compassionate person. She reassured us we were making the best decision for our dog’s quality of life. I have already recommended her to others who will need her services.
The experience of having to put a loved pet to sleep is heartbreaking. This was the 4th time in my adult life of having to make this decision. I always stay with mine until the last heartbeat. First 3 were done at the vets office but for Lucy, a rescued and worshipped pit bull, we discovered Codapet and Dr Karen Duncan and it was the best decision we made. No stress of getting them in the car and taking them to a place they hate. Lucy died in her living room on her favorite blankets surrounded by her loved ones. Codapet took care of her body. Dr Duncan was caring and kind and Lucy died peacefully. It may cost a little more than the traditional method but it was worth every penny.
She was the angel that was meant for us, had some in the beginning when they helped me rescue Nevis from Nevis, but she was the one needed at the end, God bless her, ❤️
Dr. Karen Duncan is a loving beautiful soul, an angel. Words cannot express our sincere gratitude. She was so kind, caring and compassionate walking us through the entire process. Having to euthanize a fur baby is one of the hardest things to do. Dr. Karen understood how hard this was for us to lose our sweet 16-year-old kitty, Mickey. She took the time to listen, let us share how special our fur baby Mickey was/is. Her presence and demeanor made all of us feel comfortable. We were able to pet Mickey and love him up in his last final moments – a true blessing as we know he passed peacefully and gracefully. Dr. Karen gave us time to say one last final goodbye, making sure his younger brothers and sister had time to say goodbye as well. She then, with the utmost of kindness, wrapped Mickey in a blanket and placed him in a beautiful basket. We highly recommend Dr. Karen to anyone who loves their pet as family and is faced with the difficult decision to euthanize.
Karen was amazing. She was calm, respectful of our pain and so so kind to Henry and my husband and I. I tell everyone I can that the experience was so amazing. Karen was the last caring gift we gave our dog, Henry.
We’ve had two cats euthanized within a month. Twice we utilized Codapet and twice we’ve had Dr. Duncan come to our home. Not only does she bring a vet’s professional expertise but a warm, caring presence that understands the grief that owners go through as they say goodbye to their friends. Would heartily recommend!
Dr. Karen Duncan was absolutely wonderful. She was very professional, kind, understanding and compassionate. Letting go of a beloved pet is a very painful thing to do. She did everything she could to make this experience a very calm and peaceful passing for Simone and my husband and myself. We have put down several dogs down in our lifetime, and this was the best experience we have ever had with this sad event. We are very grateful to Dr. Duncan for her expertise and compassion.
Karen arrived right in time and she was so comforting to our family. She was kind to Maya and took her time to accommodate all of us. She consoled us and treated Maya with utmost care. We are so grateful for her skill and kindness.
In home pet Euthanasia: This is a very hard review to write because it is about our personal loss of our beloved pet Lucy. Lucy's decline was very sudden and unexpected. While she was 14 years old she was very energenic and still got the zoomies once in awhile. Within a few minutes of coming back from her routine walk, she collapsed. She was diagnosed with Vestibular syndrome (inner/middle ear) and was expected to improve within 24-48 hours, but she did not. When we made the decision that it was time to say goodbye, we wanted to do it at home. We wanted her to be comfortable and surrounded by her loved ones. We didn't want to put her through anymore distress of driving her somewhere. Afterall, how many pets are excited to go to the vet?! We found Dr. Karen Duncan and she could not have been anymore caring and compassionate towards us and Lucy. She also evaluated Lucy to validate we were making the right decision. She explained everything to us and took her time. We did not feel rushed whatsoever. She took care of everything. While it is not a decision anyone likes to make, we would encourage others when that time comes to consider In-Home-Pet-Euthanasia. Be there for your pet in their loving surroundings.
Dr.Karen Duncan is an angel on earth. She provided the most calm, quiet, special experience for our beloved Isabella's passing. We felt safe to express our grief with no judgement, only compassion, empathy and understanding. It was a gift that she provided to our beloved girl, being able to pass over the rainbow bridge with those she loved most holding her and telling her we loved her. Thank you Dr. Duncan for that wonderful gift.❤️
CodaPet and especially Dr. Duncan were amazing when the time came. They worked with us to make the moment as comfortable, relaxing and peaceful as we ever could have hoped for. Immensely grateful for their support.
Dr Karen was so kind and compassionate. It was very calming having her come into our home. I would definitely recommend her when this time comes for your pet.
Our experience with Dr Karen Duncan and Codapet- At home pet euthanasia made an extremely difficult and sad time, one that we found peaceful and reverent for our dear Gracie and for my husband and myself. Dr Karen was very gentle and caring. She explained everything as the process moved along. We truly believe this was the kindness gift we could give to our long time loyal and faithful friend, a very peaceful passing. Thank you Dr Karen.
Should the unfortunate circumstance arise where you need assistance with your pet, Dr Duncan is the best choice. She is professional but also ( and most importantly) caring and empathetic. She cares for your pet and you. I can highly recommend her. It was so comforting to have her here in such a difficult time.
So very caring and kind. It felt like we had a very dear friend with us doing this difficult time. I will always be grateful that she was with us
Making the decision to say goodbye to your pet is hard enough. CodaPet and Dr. Karen Duncan (local to us) made the experience as easy and peaceful as possible. The website has tons of info and FAQs and the ability to schedule online. Dr. Duncan reached out in advance to see if we had any questions and put us at ease with the process, she gave us a few things to think about leading up to the appointment. Upon arrival Dr. Duncan was very pleasant, she took the time to allow us to share about our pet and his favorite things, we were able to do the process out on our porch, since that was his favorite place to relax. She talked us through the process step by step of what we can expect, and allowed us to ask questions. Once we began the process she was very thorough, didn't rush anything, and made sure we were ready for each step. She was attentive and allowed us all the time we needed as we said goodbye. She was informative on next steps and wishes and followed up with us later in the day just to check in. This was just a professional and genuine process all around. I highly recommend CodaPet and Dr. Karen Duncan, as I said, saying goodbye is already so hard, we couldn't bear the thought of putting our cat in a carrier, driving to the vet, and going through this process in a clinical environment. We were in the comfort of our own home and were able to say goodbye to our pet peacefully and safely.
I recently had to make the heartbreaking decision of letting my Lexi go over the Rainbow Bridge. We rescued her at 9 months and she turned 14 on March 1st. We were so lucky to have had her in our lives and I know she changed many minds about Pitbull’s over the years, as she was the sweetest, gentle and loving girl. I want to thank Dr. Karen Duncan - Certified Peaceful Euthanasia Veterinarian from CodaPet who helped me through this difficult journey. Dr. Karen came to my home and showed the utmost care and compassion during this time, it felt like having a family member with me. We sat together on the floor while Lexi laid on her favorite bed, enjoying all the love and attention we both gave to her while she passed. I cannot say enough about how grateful I am for the kindness Dr. Karen showed, not only that day but the days since, by cards, email and messages.
Our precious Lab of 14 years became incapacitated after an extended illness on New Years Day when everything is closed. I managed to get ahold of Dr. Duncan who was able to take time out of her holiday to come help us with our extremely difficult decision to end our baby's suffering. She was so kind and thoughtfully laid out everything that was going to happen. She didn't rush the process and respectfully gave us time to grieve. Dr. Duncan made an awful situation bearable and we were so lucky to find her. She's the best!
Dr. Karen Duncan handled my dog’s situation with such compassion and care, making what was a particularly difficult day much easier. Scheduling was a breeze and she reached out ahead of time to see if I had questions about the process.
Dr. Karen Duncan is amazing for in home pet euthanasia. Her caring demeanor and patient presence made Ella’s passing less painful than it might have been. She allowed me to hold her in my arms and watch her peacefully fall asleep while gazing into my eyes. It allowed me to treasure those moments, feeling that Ella knew how much she was loved. I would highly recommend Dr. Duncan for anyone who loves their pet as family, as she exemplifies the kindness and love we pray for at that most difficult time of life.
Dr.Karen was wonderful. She was compassionate and caring. She told us what to expect and walked us through the entire process. She is a beautiful soul.
She was wonderful and helped my Son through a very painful decision that it was time for his best friend of 15 years to go over the Rainbow Bridge. Very compasionate!
Dr. Karen Duncan was/ is wonderful. She came as a blessing during the time when our kitty needed it most. She was so kind and merciful, that even my hard-core mother was tearing for a few days. As much as it was hard to loose a long-time companion and family member, Dr. Duncan (and the way the services were arranged) was a gift. Thank you for your kindness, Doctor.
I was so impressed with Dr Karen Duncan the respect she had for Jake my pet ,for me and my other dog she did not rush the process very informative of what to expect ,very kind what a surprise when I got the card from her very kind and understanding
I can't recommend Dr. Karen Duncan enough. From the moment she walked into the room, she had a calming, gentle energy that made a tragic moment feel a little less painful. She spoke to my girl Jada, so sweetly and respectfully, and her compassion was just so genuine. We felt completely supported and cared for, and she gave us the space and time we needed to say our goodbyes. We will always be thankful for how she helped us navigate this devastating experience with such grace."
Dr Duncan show kind gentle compassion in sending our best friend Cisco on his final journey, we will always be grateful.for her kindness. Joe & Kathy Lasala.
I can’t recommend Dr. Karen Duncan highly enough. From start to finish, she was incredibly communicative, compassionate, and supportive. When the time came to say goodbye to our beloved dog, Jolene, Dr. Karen guided us through the process with such care and patience. She gave us all the time we needed to say our goodbyes - even allowing our younger dog to be part of the moment. Her thoughtful touches, including a custom sign and a beautiful, heartfelt card, meant the world to us. Because of Dr. Karen, Jolene's final moments were peaceful and full of love. We’re forever grateful.
Dr Duncan (Karen) was an outstanding and extremely caring person. She arrived on schedule but more importantly she was exceptionally gentle with Kobe and over the top compassionate. Kobe was an extremely loved dog who we were permitted to have in our lives for 15+ years. The house is now empty, and our normal routines are confusing for us, but we know that Kobe is in a place of rest and thanks Karen he will continue to rest peacefully. We cannot nor or ever thank Karen enough. Bruce
We recently had to say goodbye to our beloved dog, Buddy, and it was one of the hardest days of our lives. We were incredibly fortunate to have such a compassionate and truly wonderful veterinarian come to our home to help him pass peacefully. From the moment Dr. Karen arrived, she showed Buddy and us the deepest kindness patience and respect. She explained everything gently and gave us time to say our goodbyes and created a calm comforting environment so Buddy could leave us in the most peaceful way possible. We are so grateful for the care empathy and professionalism shown during this difficult time. It gave us comfort to know that Buddys last moments were filled with dignity and LOVE! We couldn’t have asked for a better person to guide us through this. Highly recommended to anyone needing this service.
For starters, Dr. Duncan is a wonderful person. She makes herself available, and then takes all the time one needs, and is such a calming and loving leader during the end of life services. Our dog was never stressed nor did he experience any pain or scary moment throughout. My wife and I felt at peace as we said our goodbyes. Dr. Duncan's role made all the difference in the world and she is highly recommended for your pet's (and your) needs.
Karen helped to make a very painful experience one that was exceptionally peaceful. I will always have positive memories of Chopper’s last moments because of Karen’s caring and compassionate service. I’m so very grateful that I chose this option.
"Dr.Karen Duncan is an angel on earth. She provided the most calm, quiet, special experience for our beloved Isabella's passing. We felt safe to express our grief with no judgement, only compassion, empathy and understanding. It was a gift that she provided to our beloved girl, being able to pass over the rainbow bridge with those she loved most holding her and telling her we loved her. Thank you Dr. Duncan for that wonderful gift.:
Karen Duncan is an angel on earth. She helped us say good bye to our beloved dog in the most supportive and gentle way. Thank you so much Dr. Duncan.
Dr. Duncan was very warm, caring, and immensely helpful during a very difficult time. Nigel was a wonderful cat - more dog than cat. He still greeted us at the door, demanded pets, and sat in our laps whenever we sat still long enough. But he had a huge tumor under his tongue, he had lost so much weight, and eating was so painful he could only attempt with a dose of pain medicine. He couldn’t groom himself anymore and his fur was covered in mats. And yet he still sought out love and affection, so we were so torn about what to do. Dr. Duncan helped us process all those emotions and facts and was completely caring and supportive. She allowed us to give Nigel the gift of dying without prolonged suffering, and without an anxiety ridden last day of a thirty minute car ride to the vet in a cat carrier in a sterile vets office smelling of fear and pain. He died peacefully in his own home without fear. I’m so grateful.
Dr. Duncan was kind, compassionate and professional. My cat Baadger died in the comfort of our home. He felt my caresses and the last sound he heard was my voice. Thank you!
We are so grateful that Dr. Karen Duncan came to our home and made the passing of our dear Oliver so peaceful for all of us . She was so thoughtful and explained everything so beautifully. We are grateful beyond words. Thank you Karen.
Dr. Karen is amazing. She was so sweet, professional and caring. She was there for me when I needed her. I highly recommend her for assisting your pet in crossing the rainbow bridge.
Dr. Karen did an amazing job. She sat with the whole family to discuss memories and asked questions. She walked through the process step by step and handled our Family Pet as if it was her own. Can say enough about how she helped our family grieve during this difficult time. We didn't know a service like this existed and would highly recommend to any family during their difficult time of letting go.
Karen Duncan DMV. Was the most soothing and caring person and we truly appreciated her approach to help Baxter pass. This experience will always be remembered as a sad and wonderful way to say goodbye to our beloved cat. Thank you Karen for everything.
Karen was careful to explain every step of the procedure in a kind and compassionate manner. This made the whole experience as painless as possible. We wouldn't hesitate to recommend her to anyone who needs this type of service.
Dr Duncan was so kind to me and has so much compassion. I was worried and confused about the process for euthanasia that my elderly dog was needing. She explained everything, was patient and sympathetic. She used so much care and respect towards my dog and to me. She made the process much easier for me.
Dr. Duncan is such a caring & thoughtful person. She was professional in her service but in such a loving & special way. Dr. Duncan assured us we were making the correct decision, as well as assuring us we were giving our goofy boy, Logan the most peaceful transition. We have recommended this organization & Dr. Duncan to all our fur baby friends.🧡
Dr. Karen provided an at-home euthanasia service for our dog and the experience was very calm and well handled. She was punctual, explained the process clearly, and allowed us the time we needed. The visit was peaceful, and our dog was comfortable throughout. Dr. Karen was respectful, professional, and compassionate. We appreciated her approach and would recommend her to anyone looking for a calm, at-home option.