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

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. 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

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

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

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 made 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 Adela G.
Review by Adela G.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

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. Whala was professional, caring, and a blessing. Having her come to my house in order for Baby to be comfortable in the company of the entire family made the difference given the difficult situation of saying goodbye to our precious German Shepherd, Baby. We appreciate the services she provides to make sure Baby was treated with love and care.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 28 2025 by Victoria R.
Review by Victoria R.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Our family could not be more pleased with the gentleness and medical expertise when preparing our German Shepherd to go to Rainbow Bridge. Dr. Karen Whala was gentle and extremely informative. She took her time and her grace and knowledge made everything very special in a very difficult time. Thank you❤️

codapet review
5.0
Sep 16 2024 by Shelly Shamshoian
Review by Shelly Shamshoian
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture