Vet Serves in Charleston, SC

Dr. Lara Allison

Verified Veterinarian

53 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

SundayTimes 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

Dr. Allison was fantastic. She really helped my wife and I during a difficult time with our dog, Rosie. We could really tell she cared about what she was doing.

codapet review
5.0
Mar 17 2026 by Mathew L.
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

I cannot recommend Dr. Lara Allison enough for her compassionate and gentle approach during one of the most difficult times for any pet owner. Dr. Lara has guided more than one of my beloved pets across the rainbow bridge with the utmost kindness and care. Her deep understanding, empathy, and gentle manner make this heart-wrenching process as peaceful as possible. She truly has a gift for helping both pets and their owners through this transition. Her services are invaluable, and I am deeply grateful for her support.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 19 2024 by Carla Lathbury
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

Dr. Lara was such a blessing to us. She was so kind, sensitive, and respectful to my dog and what we were going through. Having my dog cross the rainbow bridge at home was such a gift. Thank goodness there are people like Dr. Lara to help people say goodbye to their beloved pets in a way that is the least stressful for everyone.

codapet review
5.0
Sep 10 2025 by judi V.
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

Dr. Lara Allison recently came to my home to help our 18 year old kitty cross the rainbow bridge. Having it done at home was the best decision we could have made for her. Dr Allison walked us through the entire process. She even loved on our other two kitties that came to see what was going on. She let us know we were making the right decision . The booking process was easy. I highly recommend her. The overall care she gave all of us was wonderful.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 11 2024 by Danyell Mains
Review by Danyell Mains
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

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.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Our family was heartbroken when our beloved English bulldog, Cowboy, received the diagnosis of canine lymphoma. Dr. Lara Allison was there for him and for us during and after the many weeks of chemotherapy. She saw Cowboy when he was in remission, and she checked on him often by phone. When the cancer eventually came back, Dr. Lara worked with us to provide the best palliative care for Cowboy. It gave us great comfort to see that he was comfortable and happy in those last few weeks. When we knew the time was near, Dr. Lara offered to come to our home, where Cowboy was most comfortable, to help him on his final journey to the rainbow bridge. We highly recommend Dr. Lara Allison for pet parents seeking compassionate in-home care.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 15 2024 by Mike and Amy
Review by Dr. Lara Allison