Vet Serves in Fresno, CA

Dr. Karen Whala

Verified Veterinarian

414 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 Experience20+ years
  • Animals ServedDogs (Over 30 lbs) & All Cats
  • Notice Required2 hours

General availability

WednesdayTimes 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. 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

Her calmness and compassion was very appreciated. It must be difficult to maintain that level of outward empathy throughout every day in this profession. My other cats have never been comfortable around anyone else but myself and my partner but they were so at ease with Karen. It definitely takes a special kind of person. Thank you for making the experience as peaceful and painless as possible.

codapet review
5.0
May 15 2025 by Adrienne F.
Review by Adrienne F.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

I’m so grateful we were able to choose in home pet euthanasia for my sweet Maverick, who would have been so anxious if we would have had to take him into a vet office. I felt so much peace being able to hold him in his favorite room in the house while he passed away. Dr Karen was so kind, supportive, and helpful during the process. I will absolutely be recommending her to all of my friends and family when they face this difficult decision.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 09 2024 by Kerstyn Wilson
Review by Kerstyn Wilson
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr Karen was compassionate, discreet and professional! I can’t say enough how well she cared for my pet and me during this emotional time.

codapet review
5.0
May 07 2025 by Mara Culp
Review by Mara Culp
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

We are very thankful for CodaPet and the care provided by Dr. Whala. Dr. Whala was very compassionate while providing professional care for our dog.She provided excellent communication and guidance. Losing a family pet (member) is a struggle.Dr Whala helped us and our dog. We are extremely grateful .

codapet review
5.0
Aug 20 2025 by Richard
Review by Richard
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Having Karen come to the house was the most beautiful, peaceful experience I could have wished for. She was soft spoken, compassionate, sensitive and loving toward my pet. I will never drive a pet to the vets office again for this difficult process. I held my cat the whole time. No anxiety, or pain. God bless Karen for her work.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 10 2024 by karey seright
Review by karey seright
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Our experience with Dr. Whala was an incredible one. Our 17 year old cat had been living with kidney disease for several years, but it progressed rapidly the last two months. Within a few days he greatly declined and we were faced with the unthinkable choice of putting him to sleep or continuing to care for him while he suffered unnecessarily. When we finally decided to have him humanely euthanized, our regular vet's office recommended CodaPet. We had to make a very fast decision, and were able to book an appointment with Dr. Whala the very next morning. From the moment we booked to the appointment, everything went professionally and with the utmost compassion. Dr. Whala texted the next morning to confirm everything and explain the process. When she arrived, she was extremely kind and caring, and allowed our entire family the time and respect to spend as much time as we needed with our beloved cat. She explained the entire process and was just lovely in her demeanor. It was obviously an emotional time, and she knew exactly how to proceed without overwhelming us. As the visit continued, she explained everything she was doing and made sure to ask us if we had any questions or concerns. She provided compassionate care and went above and beyond to respect this difficult time. For anyone wondering if this is the route for them to take, I highly recommend at-home euthanasia with Dr. Whala. Yes, it was difficult and not an enjoyable time, but I can't thank her enough for the care she took to help our beloved Indy cross the rainbow bridge. If you are in a similar situation, or questioning whether this is the right decision for you, I absolutely recommend using Dr. Whala and allowing her to help your loved one pass on with dignity. Thank you Dr. Whala for honoring our cherished pet.

codapet review
5.0
Apr 06 2025 by Minimal Manik
Review by Minimal Manik
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture