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 years+ years
- Animals ServedAll Dogs & Cats
- Notice Required2 hours
General availability
Tuesday10:00 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 $25 - $160
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
Dr. Lara was so nice and caring during such a hard time. She was a loving presence and helped our Lucy move to heaven peacefully. Thank you
We had Lucy, a rescue that we adopted when she was 10 months old. She was a great family pet. She found her forever home. Our two young children grew up with her. And still talk about her today. After 13 years as a family member, because of medical reasons, we knew that it was time to let Lucy go. We decided that it would be better for Lucy to be in our own home as opposed to a cold clinic. Dr Allison came over to our house to perform the procedure. It was the best situation it could have been. Because Lucy was in her own surroundings, she was relaxed and not stressed. Dr Allison not only took care of Lucy, she had compassion with the humans as well. The time she took with us was priceless. She explained what was happening and did not rush our grieving. We have all heard that hindsight is 20/20. And clearly this was the best way to handle an emotional situation.
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💕
Very compassionate. She cares and it shows. Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is never easy, but Dr Allison made it very dignified. Thanks
Dr. Allison is an extremely kind and caring veterinarian. When it was time to help our sweet Lupé cross the Rainbow Bridge, she not only helped us with knowing it was the right decision but also helped us navigate the difficult emotions. She explained everything thoroughly and thoughtfully answered our questions. Dr. Allison approached the situation with the utmost professionalism and grace, patiently giving us time to say farewell to our dear furry friend. From handling the logistics to treating Lupé as if she were her own, we can’t thank her enough!
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.
