Vet Serves in Charleston, SC

Dr. Lara Allison

Verified Veterinarian

63 reviews

Why I provide at-home pet euthanasia

After 31 years as a veterinarian, I’ve witnessed both the clinical and the deeply personal sides of saying goodbye to a beloved pet. Through this journey, I’ve come to believe that the most peaceful and compassionate way for our pets to pass is in the comfort of their own home—or in a favorite outdoor spot—surrounded by the people who love them. My first experience with home euthanasia was 24 years ago, with my mom’s beloved dog, Smokey. We sat with him on a sunny riverbank, birds singing overhead, the wind gently moving through the trees. As my mom held him, I asked her to share memories—his funny quirks, the naughty moments, the ways he made her smile. In that space of love and remembrance, something shifted: the sadness was still there, but so was peace. Smokey passed calmly, cradled in my mom’s arms, wrapped in love and sunlight. It was a moment that changed both of us—and it’s what inspired me to dedicate my work to helping others have the same experience. Since that day, I’ve helped countless families say goodbye in the quiet, sacred space of home. The difference is profound. Without the clinical setting, there’s less fear, less anxiety—for both pets and their people. It becomes a time to focus on a life well-lived, and to offer a final gift of comfort, dignity, and love. This work is an honor. Helping families create a peaceful transition for their companions is one of the most meaningful things I’ve ever done, and I’m grateful every day to be part of such tender, important moments.

Education

Undergraduate: B.S from University of Georgia - 1991

Veterinary Medicine: University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine- 1995

Certifications

1

CAETA's CPEV (Certified Peaceful Euthanasia Veterinarian)

 CAETA's CPEV (Certified Peaceful Euthanasia Veterinarian)
  • Based InCharleston, SC
  • Service areasCharleston, SC & Surrounding Area
  • Work Experience31 plus years+ years
  • Animals ServedAll Dogs & Cats
  • Notice Required2 hours

General availability

FridayTimes 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. Lara Allison will help your beloved pet transition peacefully in the comfort of of their home, surrounded by loved ones

Est. CostStarting at $325

Pet cremation

Dr. Lara Allison 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 $145 - $375

Keepsakes

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

Est. CostFrom $25 - $375

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 gave careful attention to who we were and what would matter to us. She could not possibly have done a better job in any way whatsoever. Our dog Sarah was taken great care of from start to finish. I will tell anybody I talk to about my loss how great she was to all of us. Me, my husband and my other dog Nikki were all close to Sarah to help comfort her. And Sarah was taken care of right where she was in her comfort zone with her favorite view.

codapet review
5.0
May 15 2026 by Tammy O.
Review by Tammy O.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

On March 15th I had to say goodbye to my Manz after 15.5 years of love and being by my side. Dr Lara came highly recommended and I understand why. Her professionalism, kindness, compassion and empathy shown through in a difficult time. Everyone at Coda Pet was amazing. My Mokie is home now, thank you Dr Laura

codapet review
5.0
Mar 26 2025 by Raven Lee
Review by Raven Lee
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Dr. Lara Allison was a true blessing to us and to Lucy. She was understanding and knowledgeable. Thanks to her we will never have our pets, that are family, taken to a vet to be euthanized.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 13 2025 by Lee R.
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

Dr Lara helped make our in-home pet euthanasia as good as could be expected. It’s such a hard decision but my sweet boy got to roll in the grass one more time. I knew it was the right thing for him. And then he went to sleep in our backyard in my lap, one of his happy places.

codapet review
5.0
Sep 09 2024 by Wendy Crisp Helms
Review by Wendy Crisp Helms
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Words cannot describe how truly amazing Dr. Lara Allison is and how lucky we feel that she was the vet who helped us during an extremely difficult time. The amount of love, kindess, and patience she showed us during the at home euthanasia of our beloved cat is something we will never forget. Dr. Allison took the time to let us share photos and stories with her before starting, and put our minds at ease by explaining the process step by step. After the euthanasia was completed she gave us ample time to say our goodbyes in private. She communicated every step of the way regarding the cremation and hand delivered our sweet boys ashes back to us 2 weeks later. She turned what we thought would be an extremely stressful experience into something so peaceful and full of love. I could not imagine and more beautiful send off or one more fitting for a cat we cherished and loved for 22 beautiful years. I cannot recommend her enough to anyone going through this difficult process. I'm thankful humans like her exist and that she has dedicated her life to helping pet parents in need.

codapet review
5.0
May 05 2026 by Caleb T.
Review by Caleb T.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Dr. Allison made a very difficult time so much easier. Her kind and caring personality and genuine warmth created an atmosphere of peace during our beloved cat’s passing. Having her come to our home made it so much easier for the family but most important for Sophie. Thank you for all you do. 💗

codapet review
5.0
May 14 2026 by Deb C.
Review by Dr. Lara Allison