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

Friday9:00 am - 1:00 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

Losing our beloved Bully was one of the hardest moments for our family, but Dr. Karen Whala helped us through it with compassion, grace, and genuine care. From the moment she arrived, she created a peaceful and comforting environment that honored Bully’s life and eased his passing. Dr. Whala was incredibly supportive—not just to Bully, but to every member of our family. Her presence brought comfort during a heartbreaking time, and we are so grateful for her gentleness and professionalism. The resources shared by the CodaPet team were thoughtful and meaningful, especially the grief support and memorial ideas. It truly felt like we weren’t alone. Thank you, Dr. Whala and the entire CodaPet Care Team, for helping us say goodbye with dignity and love. We will never forget it. — Villarreal Family

codapet review
5.0
Mar 27 2025 by Paco Villarreal
Review by Paco Villarreal
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr. Karen was helpful in providing a peaceful passing for my sick kitty. She explained the process and helped keep us both calm. This was the hardest decision I had to make and she helped me come to terms with it. I would absolutely call Dr. Karen again if needed. She was kind, compassionate, and supportive for both me and my girl as we said goodbye.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 29 2024 by Katie L.
Review by Katie L.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Her approach of “I’m here for Pepper and your family “ with Pepper being comfortable the priority was wonderful. She took time to “meet” Pepper and having her doing the assessment was a blessing. She is very compassionate during this difficult process. She conveys at all time the process and what she is doing. We felt comfortable having her there as we cried and loved on our Pepper. She is WONDERFUL!

codapet review
5.0
Sep 17 2025 by Lisa R.
Review by Lisa R.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

We have the help of Dr Whala twice now and absolutely love her and would never think of anyone else to help us lay our pet to rest. She is the most caring and loving when times are so hard .

codapet review
5.0
Nov 11 2025 by Chris P.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala

Dr. Karen was so caring and kind. She did not rush the process and was very interested in our family with our Sammy. We can't say enough good things about her bedside manner and caring personality. Thank you Dr. Whala.

codapet review
5.0
Jul 16 2024 by Holly K.
Review by Holly K.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr. Karen came highly recommended to us by our local veterinarian, Armstrong Pet, and we now know why. Dr. Karen made this really difficult process a beautiful experience for our family. She talked us through each step of the process and was sensitive to the emotions of our young son. She was empathetic, patient, and provided us the time and space to say our goodbyes. I have already shared her contact information with other that are facing this difficult situation with their pup. Thank you for providing such a humane option in crossing the rainbow bridge 🌈🐶

codapet review
5.0
Nov 30 2024 by Brooke B.
Review by Brooke B.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture