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

I’ve known Dr.Allison for a number of years, couldn’t have a more kind and caring professional as her. It’s never easy going through this process, but she made it easy as possible. Dr. Lara Allison truly is a gem in her field ❤️💕

codapet review
5.0
May 22 2026 by Robert D.
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

Dr. Allison made the best out of a terrible moment in our lives. I will never forget how kind and gentle and thoughtful she was. I am so appreciative of all she did for us and our girl. I cant imagine enduring this in an impersonal vet office rather than the comfort and familiarity of home. Thank you for reigniting my faith in humanity! You are doing God’s work!

codapet review
5.0
Mar 26 2026 by Katie K.
Review by Katie K.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Our dog unfortunately had to be put to rest Nov 14, 2024. It has taken me this long to be able to write this, due to my emotions. I wanted to thank Laura for being so compassionate during probably the toughest time in my life and guide me through. Laure was very willing to let you vacillate back and forth on decisions as most of us do in a situation like this she was willing to listen to us and our beloved family member and help us make informed thought out decisions. Our loved one got very sick in the night and Laura was here first thing to help with this situation we hoped would never come. If it had not been for Laura, I am not sure I would have any mind left. Laura helped us work through the entire process and you could tell could feel what we felt. Thank you for being there for us in our time of need. You are a true friend and am so glad you entered our life’s to help make this unbearable situation more manageable. Laura gave us a hair clipping from our loved one and he still goes with us to all of his favorite places. It helps us remember he is still with us.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 08 2026 by David G.
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

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.

codapet review
5.0
Jul 15 2025 by Ana H.
Review by Ana H.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Dr. Lara Allison is truly an angel on earth when it comes to the difficult task of putting down your pet. When our beloved cat had gotten too ill to live comfortably, we decided to put him to sleep. She came to our home, embraced and supported us in our sadness, and painlessly administered the medication to end his suffering. I can't give enough praise for her and what she does . Home euthanasia is absolutely the way to go about this tough situation and she's the best.

codapet review
5.0
Sep 05 2024 by d l
Review by d l
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

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