Vet Serves in Fresno, CA

Dr. Karen Whala

Verified Veterinarian

422 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

SaturdayTimes 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

Doc. Karen took the utmost care of Bentley on his final journey with my wife and I at home. She explained everything and was very professional during the transition of our loved Bently.

codapet review
5.0
Oct 18 2024 by Tim C.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala

Dr. Karen Whela was just what our family needed when we were faced with the difficult end of life decision for our sweet 14 year old Golden, Sandy. She was compassionate, tender, patient, and understood when to explain the process and when to give us the space we needed. She clearly has the heart for this amazing work. The entire process was easy with Coda Pet and they were extremely professional. Our entire family was able to be there with Sandy and while we were sad, we all feel good about how we managed her care. I would most highly recommend Dr. Karen and Coda Pet for your loved family member pet.

codapet review
5.0
Apr 29 2025 by Tony Fazio
Review by Tony Fazio
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Where do I start? My dog, Einstein, was diagnosed with lymphoma three weeks prior. It exploded throughout his body faster than the doctors expected and while he and I were on a road trip. Einstein woke one day, in obvious pain. I got lucky and found Dr. Whala through CodaPet. She was able to come see me that afternoon. It was either that or wait 4 days for the next availability (it was Thanksgiving). When she came to our house, she took the time to say hello and let Einstein and me get to know her. After she observed him and I explained his situation, she helped him pass in the most peaceful way I've witnessed. It's difficult for me to express exactly how peaceful it was, except to say, I couldn't have wished for someone to treat my buddy better. There was no pain and he felt loved. There was no sudden change but rather, a gentle transition. It's never easy making this choice but I feel Dr. Whala was the right choice for Einstein.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 13 2025 by Joseph I.
Review by Joseph I.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr. Whala was so wonderful. She really cared about us and our kitty, Atticus. She took her time and walked us through the process. There were lots of tears but I was special because we were at home and comfortable surroundings for our friend. Thanks again !

codapet review
5.0
May 14 2026 by Martee B.
Review by Martee B.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr. Karen Whala is such a blessing to us. I was so touched on how she approached my Bella. Her presence comforted Bella which I never seen happened before because Bella was a nervous dog around people but not with Dr. Karen Whala. It was as if she knew she was there to help.She also helped us through the difficult process and made sure Bella transitioned painlessly and peacefully. Thank you Dr.Karen Whala for your professionalism, kindness and dedication to our beloved pets, our family members.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 31 2025 by Claudia D.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala

Unfortunately, my elder dog Patience took a turn for the worse and I had to make the call that I dreaded. I had previously decided to have a vet come to the home for her passing. I didn’t want Patience trembling in fear at the vet’s office. Karen Whala arrived and she was wonderful. She took her time quietly explaining the process to me and my daughter as we cried. Patience passed peacefully in her favorite chair and I’m confident that she felt no pain thanks to Karen. Karen was the only good thing in a terrible day and I’m grateful.

codapet review
5.0
May 27 2026 by Janice D.
Review by Janice D.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture