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

TuesdayTimes 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

As a first time dog owner, when we unfortunately got to the point where end of life was a reality for Arnold (our 13 year old Olde English Bulldog), the thought of when, where and how to experience that situation was super overwhelming. Thankfully we had Dr. Allison to shepherd us through that process to allow us to make the right decision at the right time, while experiencing those last final moments and memories in the comfort of our home (vs. in a waiting room where our dog also became anxious and nervous). Her genuine care and thoughtfulness of not only our dog, but with us made a dreaded situation as manageable and convenient as possible for us. We can't imagine anyone being a more perfect fit for professionally and gracefully handling such an emotional situation.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 15 2024 by Austin Elliot
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

Dr. Allison was fantastic. She really helped my wife and I during a difficult time with our dog, Rosie. We could really tell she cared about what she was doing.

codapet review
5.0
Mar 17 2026 by Mathew L.
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

I am so grateful we had Dr. Lara Allison to help us through this process. I was having a difficult time deciding what was best for Guinness. Dr. Allison came to our home for a consultation. Her medical knowledge of Guinness's needs was important, but her intuitive insights into what he was experiencing and why I was struggling so much with the decision were invaluable. Just talking through all of it with her helped me tremendously. When she came to our home for our final moments with Guinness, Dr. Allison was so compassionate. Her presence allowed Guinness, and our family to make room for healing in his transition to the other side. I would highly recommend Dr. Allison to anyone who is going through the difficulty of saying goodbye to their fur baby.

codapet review
5.0
Nov 15 2024 by Carol Cottrell
Review by Carol Cottrell
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Having Dr.Lara by my side as my family and I said goodbye to our much loved Daisy was invaluable. Being able to do this at home where Daisy was most comfortable gave us an opportunity to say goodbye in our time on our own terms. Dr.Lara talked us through every step with compassion and love. She took care of everything from beginning to end and made this process much easier. She is not only a wonderful vet but a wonderful person and we were so thankful to have her there.

codapet review
5.0
Feb 06 2025 by Liza Chambers
Review by Liza Chambers
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Dr. Lara Allison was wonderful! She was so kind, explained the process, asked about Loki and our journey together and befriended him upon arrival. I chose in-home euthanasia because I did not want my pet to be scared or stressed in his final moments and I did not want to be rushed. I highly recommend Dr. Allison and this service💕

codapet review
5.0
Jan 08 2025 by Erin Sirona
Review by Erin Sirona
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Dr. Lara Allison was nothing short of amazing. What a bright light in such a dark period for pet owners! She was prompt and responsive and went out of her way to make both owner and pet comfortable. She brought treats for my dog and patiently stayed with me while I made paw prints and said goodbye. She handled transport of him for cremation. She was gentle and respectful . She genuinely cares. I highly recommend her if you find yourself in need of her services. I cannot say enough good things to express how pleased I was with her services. She really does go above and beyond.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 05 2026 by Elizabeth R.
Review by Elizabeth R.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture