Vet Serves in Charleston, SC

Dr. Lara Allison

Verified Veterinarian

51 reviews

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

1

CAETA's CPEV (Certified Peaceful Euthanasia Veterinarian)

 CAETA'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

Sunday10:00 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

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 - $150

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

We recently had to make the heartbreaking decision to say goodbye to our beloved dog, Fritz. Dr. Allison treated us and our pet with the utmost compassion, respect, and kindness. She gave us time, comfort, and space to say goodbye, and explained everything gently so we knew what to expect. It was one of the hardest moments of our lives, but we are forever grateful for the care and dignity she provided. I would highly recommend Dr. Allison to anyone needing support during such a difficult time.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 15 2025 by Rachael T.
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

When Bootsie was unable to control her bladder, at age 14, we knew it was time. Having had my first lab euthanized at the vets office many years before , I knew that wasn’t what I wanted for my Bootsie. We reached out to Dr Lara and she was able to come to our house. There was something very calming and very natural about the whole experience. Dr Lara explained everything to me in detail. Bootsie was able to lie on her bed in her favorite spot and very peacefully go to sleep. It was only a few short months later that her littermate, Beauregard was ready to leave us. Dr Lara was there for us again. It’s so hard to lose your fur babies. Im so grateful that there is a service that can treat you and your fur baby with so much kindness and so much compassion. Thank you Dr. Lara.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 15 2024 by Terrie Howlett
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

I am so grateful we had Dr. Lara Allison to help us through this process. I was having a really difficult time making the decision about 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 was 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 for anyone who is going through the difficulty of saying good-bye to their fur baby.

codapet review
5.0
Nov 15 2024 by Carol C.
Review by Carol C.
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 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.

codapet review
5.0
Nov 09 2025 by Elizabeth G.
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

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