Dr. Lara Allison
Verified Veterinarian
Why I provide at-home pet euthanasia
After 30 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
1CAETA's CPEV (Certified Peaceful Euthanasia Veterinarian)
- Based InCharleston, SC
- Service areasCharleston, SC & Surrounding Area
- Work Experience30 plus years+ years
- Animals ServedAll Dogs & Cats
- Notice Required2 hours
General availability
Monday10:00 am - 9:00 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. Lara Allison will help your beloved pet transition peacefully in the comfort of of their home, surrounded by loved ones
Est. CostStarting at $325
Keepsakes
Clay paw prints, wooden urns with personalizations available with ashes returned
Est. CostFrom $20 - $165
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
My husband and I cannot thank Dr Allison enough for the comfort, care and compassion that she brought to our home that day. The service she provides allowed my sweet cat, Opie, to cross the rainbow bridge in my arms in the bedroom where he had slept for most of his life. Dr Allison explained thoroughly each step of the procedure as well as Opie’s response so well that I actually felt comfortable participating in his transition. Opie never seemed to be stressed or uncomfortable. He seemed to be at peace, as was I. I recommend highly Dr Lara Allison for end of life/transition care.
In posting a review, I wanted to tell my story of never having a dog and the pain of letting her go and how the Lord chose Dr. Lara to mercifully end her life for me. But all I could come up with, were my words. But then He spoke to me! And it was a message I hear always when I'm searching. He who has Christ, has no fear. In a sermon, He sent a message from Luke 12:22-34 The end of anxiety. Dr. Lara was a gift that day because of her Faith. She had no fear that day! My only hope is, that in some small way I was able to thank her graciously enough! To Maggie Mae, my beautiful Boo boo, Rest in Peace 🙏 I love you. 🐕
I am incredibly grateful for the compassion and care shown during one of the hardest days of my life. Dr. Lara Allison treated Gus with such kindness and dignity, and her calm, gentle presence brought comfort during an otherwise heartbreaking moment. She truly made saying goodbye a little easier, and I will always be thankful for the care she gave Gus and our family.
Though we may not have control of when we say goodbye to our animals, we sometimes have the choice as to where and with whom we will face this impossibly hard decision. I grew up with dogs my whole life, welcoming many into my family and was fortunate enough to also be there at the end of their time on Earth. The bond I had with Bruce (the first dog that was really just mine, after college) was and remains one of the most important, special connections I will ever have the pleasure of experiencing. A trusted friend, life coach, and confidant, Lara extended her in-home euthanasia services to me when Bruce could no longer enjoy his life. It was emotional and scary as I wondered if I was doing the right thing. She comforted me and stood by me, supporting my decision. She carefully explained the process- what would happen before, during, and after - leaving out anything too overwhelming or unnecessary for me to know. She performed the service in my home and handled Bruce’s cremation for me as well. Bruce passed away peacefully in the comfort of his favorite chair. Admittedly, this testimonial is difficult to write as it conjures a painful memory, but I often reflect on how much more discomfort I would have experienced having to take him to a sterile, foreign environment in order to say goodbye to my best friend. Lara was calm, collected, kind, and invaluable in making the entire situation much more palatable for me, and for Bruce. His and my comfort were of utmost importance. It is impossible to imagine having to go through that event in any other way. My new dog has taught me how to love again, and with that, we've created a special, different kind of bond - one that I never thought I could have after losing Bruce. He’s stable, but suffering from cardiomyopathy and has limited time left earthside. I know one day, maybe sooner than I would like, I will have to make another hard choice. I rest easy and find peace knowing that when it is his time to transition into another realm, Lara will be there, in the comfort of our home, Gus on his favorite chair, getting the best pets and receiving all the love he deserves. I cannot recommend Lara enough - her heart is SO big - the service she provides is complicated, necessary, and special. In my opinion, she is the perfect person for this difficult job.
Dr. Lara was with Chewbacca and me on the worst day of our lives. She treated Chewbacca with such love, dignity, and compassion. I cannot say enough great things about her. None of this is easy and will never be. Having Dr. Lara there with her care and love ensured Chewbacca had the kindest and most loving departure. Thank you so much Dr. Lara, for everything.
Dr Allison made a very difficult, heartbreaking loss a bit easier with her kindness and compassion. She let me hold Boo for as long as I needed to. She did not rush us. She seemed to know when I was ready to hand her over to her for her post-care. I can't thank her enough for her kindness. Dawn and Mark
