Vet Serves in Fresno, CA

Dr. Karen Whala

Verified Veterinarian

419 reviews

Why I provide at-home pet euthanasia

There is truly no better way to honor our beloved pets last wishes than to help them pass, when its time, peacefully and painlessly in their sleep, at home, surrounded by family. I firmly believe it, because it is a desire we all would want when that time comes.

Education

Undergraduate: University of California, Davis

Veterinary Medicine: University of California, Davis University of Iowa

Certifications

2

Pet Loss Bereavement Specialist, Fear Free Certified

Pet Loss Bereavement SpecialistFear Free Certified
  • Based InFresno, CA
  • Service areasFresno, CA & Surrounding Cities
  • Work Experience20+ years
  • Animals ServedDogs (Over 30 lbs) & All Cats
  • Notice Required2 hours

General availability

SundayTimes Vary Weekly

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 Whala will help your beloved pet transition peacefully in the comfort of of their home, surrounded by loved ones

Est. CostStarting at $320

Pet cremation

Dr. Karen Whala 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 $75 - $495

Keepsakes

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

Est. CostFrom $12 - $40

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

Dr. Karen Whala was just the perfect answer to a difficult decision in sending our German Shepherd Luke to Heaven. Dr. Whala was gentle, took the time to exam and bring assurance to both our dog and our family. This was a difficult day but Dr. Whala made it reassuring and gave us the piece of mind we needed. Thank you so very much.

codapet review
5.0
Sep 29 2024 by Shelly S
Review by Dr. Karen Whala

Dr. Karen came highly recommended to us by our local veterinarian, Armstrong Pet, and we now know why. Dr. Karen made this really difficult process a beautiful experience for our family. She talked us through each step of the process and was sensitive to the emotions of our young son. She was empathetic, patient, and provided us the time and space to say our goodbyes. I have already shared her contact information with other that are facing this difficult situation with their pup. Thank you for providing such a humane option in crossing the rainbow bridge 🌈🐶

codapet review
5.0
Nov 30 2024 by Brooke B.
Review by Brooke B.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr. Whala is such a kind, patient, and wonderful vet. She came into our home and explained everything about the process and proceeded with such kindness and patience. Chloe was relaxed and laying in our arms when she passed and crossed over. There was no anxiety, or stress for her. Just soft hands and words. We are never ready to make the difficult decision, but knowing Chloe was ready and it was so peaceful for her, made our grieving a little more bearable. Our hearts are broke but will forever be grateful for Dr. Whala’s support and guidance during such a difficult time. Really there are no words for what she does but so grateful.

codapet review
5.0
Oct 30 2025 by Robyn S.
Review by Robyn S.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr. Karen Whala was an Angel sent in human form. As much as we dreaded saying goodbye to our beloved Hendrix, she made the experience memorable in the most loving and positive way. Our family highly recommends Dr. Karen for this difficult decision.

codapet review
5.0
Mar 28 2025 by gracie brunt
Review by gracie brunt
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Where do I start? My dog, Einstein, was diagnosed with lymphoma three weeks prior. It exploded throughout his body faster than the doctors expected and while he and I were on a road trip. Einstein woke one day, in obvious pain. I got lucky and found Dr. Whala through CodaPet. She was able to come see me that afternoon. It was either that or wait 4 days for the next availability (it was Thanksgiving). When she came to our house, she took the time to say hello and let Einstein and me get to know her. After she observed him and I explained his situation, she helped him pass in the most peaceful way I've witnessed. It's difficult for me to express exactly how peaceful it was, except to say, I couldn't have wished for someone to treat my buddy better. There was no pain and he felt loved. There was no sudden change but rather, a gentle transition. It's never easy making this choice but I feel Dr. Whala was the right choice for Einstein.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 13 2025 by Joseph I.
Review by Joseph I.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

I am grateful for the service Dr. Karen provided. She was not only knowledgeable but also very professional, understanding, and empathetic. She explained everything she was doing and what to expect. She handled everything afterward and brought my friend back to me after the cremation. While it was beyond Dr. Karen’s control, I only wish my dog Zoey had a lot more white whiskers on her face before I had to say goodbye.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 20 2024 by Nicolas R.
Review by Nicolas R.
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