Vet Serves in Charleston, SC

Dr. Lara Allison

Verified Veterinarian

56 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

WednesdayTimes 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

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.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 15 2024 by Becca Barnet
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

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

I would like to highly recommend Dr. Lara Allison if you are considering home pet euthanasia. Lara is an extraordinary veterinarian with the added graces of empathy, kindness and caring that make her a perfect choice for the loving passing of a treasured pet. Lara helped me so much with the difficult decisions I had to make when faced with putting down my Irish Setter. She helped me create a beautiful, peaceful setting and during the entire process, which was so professionally done, added words of sympathy , encouragement and support! Lara made a difficult time so much more acceptable, a time I now look back with a peaceful remembrance.

codapet review
5.0
Sep 06 2024 by Rindy Jerue
Review by Rindy Jerue
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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

We had to make the very difficult decision to lay our sweet Riley to rest. Dr. Laura Allison was kind, patient, and deeply compassionate. She brought us comfort during one of the hardest moments our family has faced.We are very grateful to have found Dr. Laura Allison. -The Hill Family

codapet review
5.0
Mar 18 2026 by Amy E.
Review by Amy E.
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I recently had to make the heartbreaking decision to help my beloved, 17-year-old kitty, Alice, go over the Rainbow Bridge. I am so grateful that my vet recommended in-home pet euthanasia and Dr. Lara Allison of CODApet. Dr. Lara was so wonderful through the entire process. She was so compassionate, kind, and empathetic, gently guiding me through the process and giving me all the time I needed during each step. She was so thoughtful, wanting to hear all about Alice’s life. She even sent a hand-written card and a sweet memento of Alice that I will treasure. I am so grateful that Alice’s final journey did not involve another scary trip in a carrier and a car. She was in her happy and safe place at home, and she passed gently and peacefully in my arms. If you are ever faced with this heartbreaking decision, I would highly recommend in-home pet euthanasia, and I would absolutely recommend Dr. Lara Allison. I cannot possibly say enough good things about Dr. Lara and her compassionate and loving care. I am forever grateful to her. If I ever have to make this choice again, I definitely will be contacting CODApet and Dr. Lara. Thank you, Dr. Lara! Jennifer E.

codapet review
5.0
Mar 28 2025 by flowflix
Review by flowflix
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