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
Friday10:00 am - 7:00 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 $0
Keepsakes
Clay paw prints, wooden urns with personalizations available with ashes returned
Est. Cost
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 the most compassionate, kind and loving person I could have ever had come to my home to help my fur baby, Maddi Sofia, cross the Rainbow Bridge. She was helpful from the very beginning throughout the entire process and even weeks later. It was such a hard decision to make but she helped to comfort us to know we were doing the right thing at the right time. She treated Maddi with so much love and was even wonderful with my other dog. She went above and beyond to make sure she was happy and could have some food experiences that dogs can't have for their entire lives because they can become ill. She explained the entire process and what was going to happen and the steps that would be taken to ensure Maddi was brought back to us in the most humane way possible. I highly recommend Dr Lara to anyone who is in need of this kind of service. While it was very sad, it was also beautiful at the same time to know our Baby Girl could pass at home in our arms with love instead of having to be in a clinical setting surrounded by people she didn't know. Thank you Dr. Lara. You are an amazing human being and I thank you for being there for our family. ❤️
Dr Allison was so friendly, sweet, and professional. Her consideration of our emotions, made a hard decision much easier to handle. My dog immediately took to her. I thank her for the memorable experience.
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.
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.
Dr. Lara was amazing with us and guiding us through the process. She treated us and our Duke with such respect. She was gentle and kind and gave us the time needed to say goodbye. Thank you Dr. Lara.
We had an absolutely amazing experience with Dr. Allison. We called her to our home to meet with our cat who has a terminal illness- to help guide us in next steps. We went over our cat’s current medical regimen, bloodwork numbers, etc. It’s important to us that our cat enjoys quality of life for as long as possible. Dr. Allison displayed not only her knowledge of veterinary medicine, she also showed us kindness, compassion and empathy. Our very shy cat was drawn to her immediately, and we were all able to take part in a spiritual healing. Although we know our cat’s prognosis is bleak, Dr. Allison offered a new perspective for all of us, and we are beyond grateful. When the time comes to make a hard decision, we know who we will call, but Dr. A offers so much more to our family. She’s been a blessing.
