Vet Serves in Fresno, CA

Dr. Karen Whala

Verified Veterinarian

403 reviews

Why I provide at-home pet euthanasia

There is truly no better way to honor our beloved pets last wishes than to help them pass, when its time, peacefully and painlessly in their sleep, at home, surrounded by family. I firmly believe it, because it is a desire we all would want when that time comes.

Education

Undergraduate: University of California, Davis

Veterinary Medicine: University of California, Davis University of Iowa

Certifications

2

Pet Loss Bereavement Specialist, Fear Free Certified

Pet Loss Bereavement SpecialistFear Free Certified
  • Based InFresno, CA
  • Service areasFresno, CA & Surrounding Cities
  • Work Experience19+ years
  • Animals ServedDogs (Over 30 lbs) & All Cats
  • Notice Required2 hours

General availability

Tuesday12:00 pm - 6:30 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. Karen Whala will help your beloved pet transition peacefully in the comfort of of their home, surrounded by loved ones

Est. CostStarting at $320

Pet cremation

Dr. Karen Whala 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 $75 - $495

Keepsakes

Clay paw prints, wooden urns with personalizations available with ashes returned

Est. CostFrom $12 - $40

Quality of life consult

Schedule a 1-on-1 with a vet over a virtual conference call or at home.

Est. CostStarting at $125

What pet parents are saying

I only hesitated to give a 5 star rating because Dr. Whala did not call me sooner about our date with Endora's passing. She called that morning to ask if I was having second thoughts which I was. I had another boxer put down in 2022 and I sensed Dr. Whala was hesitant to put her down because she was worried I would feel "incredible guilt" because Violet seemed to be doing a little better. I went ahead with the euthanasia after talking to my vet again and I did feel horrible as Dr. Whala feared but I am now okay with the decision. Violet's heart was bad and Endora had metastatic cancer. My point is that I had Dr. Whala's imput for a day or so and then again on the day of the euthanasia. I love Dr. Whala and just wanted a phone call the night before. I wanted my hand held I guess.

codapet review
4.0
Aug 23 2024 by Elaine H.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala

Dr. Karen made this very difficult situation bearable. She is knowledgeable, professional, thorough, kind, and caring. We are so thankful that God sent her to our family to care for and about our beloved Lili. God bless you, Dr. Karen. You are a gem!

codapet review
5.0
Jan 23 2025 by Sandra Gostanian
Review by Sandra Gostanian
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

SHASTA’s POEM Shasta, golden flame Snow's whisper sang your song Water's rhythm was your heartbeat Your spirit soared over mountain peaks Squirrel's dance was your joy Your eyes saw through to the soul Love's nectar quenched our thirst Each moment, a brushstroke in your art Seventeen years, a journey complete You're the timeless note in our symphony Thank you for helping Shasta at the conclusion of her well lived full dog life. A peaceful death is a gift she deserved. .

codapet review
5.0
Apr 01 2025 by Andreas H.
Review by Andreas H.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr. Whala is empathetic, compassionate, and patient. She helped our dog Brody smoothly transition into the next phase of life. She created a calm and loving environment and allowed us to grieve and say our goodbyes without making us feel rushed. She made sure Brody was comfortable and at peace throughout the process. I highly recommend Dr. Whala to anyone who is trying to peacefully help their animal transition over the rainbow bridge.

codapet review
5.0
Nov 25 2024 by Lea Cardenas
Review by Lea Cardenas
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr. Whala is empathetic, compassionate, and patient. She helped our dog Brody smoothly transition into the next phase of life. She created a calm and loving environment and allowed us to grieve and say our goodbyes without making us feel rushed. She made sure Brody was comfortable and at peace throughout the process. I highly recommend Dr. Whala to anyone who is trying to peacefully help their animal transition over the rainbow bridge.

codapet review
5.0
Nov 25 2024 by Lea M.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala

Dr Karen Whala is wonderful! Upon arrival she spent time with our Pepper and the assessment is so helpful and reassuring. We did not feel rushed through the process at all. She explained every step. Most importantly she was so patient allowing our family to each love on Pepper. Her priority was making sure that Pepper was comfortable at all times! Pepper never liked visits to the vet (even though our vet office is great) and knowing that she was at home and passed peacefully was a gift. Dr Whala - thank you!!

codapet review
5.0
Sep 08 2025 by Lisa Rose
Review by Lisa Rose
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture