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

ThursdayTimes 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. Lara really is special, she was completely equipped and ready. Buddy was my longest companion and my first to have passed from old age, I was a mess. Dr. Lara made the whole process clear, she walked me through each step, and made the whole process very special.

codapet review
5.0
Sep 15 2025 by Amy N.
Review by Amy N.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Dr. Lara Allison was wonderful! This was our first in home euthanasia. She was extremely warm and caring with our 8 year old Great Dane, Piper. And the whole family as well. Dr. Allison thoroughly explained the process to the whole family (teens included). She went at our pace and made the whole experience peaceful for Piper as well as the family. I cannot say enough kind words. If I could give more than 5 stars, I would. She helped with transportation to the funeral home as well as memorial items. We absolutely love Dr. Allison!!

codapet review
5.0
Apr 12 2026 by Andtrea L.
Review by Andtrea L.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

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

Dr. Lara was wonderful! Being able to have our beloved family member cross over the Rainbow Bridge at home meant our fur baby felt calm, safe, and loved. Dr. Lara was extremely kind and empathetic with our situation, and did everything possible to help our family understand and feel comfortable with the process, as well as allow us to cry, grieve, and give all the last minute love and words of comfort we could. I highly recommend Dr. Lara if you have to make the difficult decision for your fur baby. Thank you Dr. Lara for making one of life's hardest moments easier.

codapet review
5.0
Mar 17 2025 by Erica Hattings
Review by Erica Hattings
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

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

Our experience with Dr. Allison was truly wonderful. She was so kind and compassionate and gave our sweet cat a dignified, peaceful passing. She was relaxing in her favorite spot on our back porch; this was so nice compared to the thought of transporting her to a vet office in pain and anxious being in the car. I truly cannot recommend Dr. Allison highly enough. This is a phenomenal service that she offers. The work she does is truly remarkable.

codapet review
5.0
Oct 21 2025 by Mallory A.
Review by Dr. Lara Allison