Vet Serves in Charleston, SC

Dr. Lara Allison

Verified Veterinarian

64 reviews

Why I provide at-home pet euthanasia

After 31 years as a veterinarian, I’ve witnessed both the clinical and the deeply personal sides of saying goodbye to a beloved pet. Through this journey, I’ve come to believe that the most peaceful and compassionate way for our pets to pass is in the comfort of their own home—or in a favorite outdoor spot—surrounded by the people who love them. My first experience with home euthanasia was 24 years ago, with my mom’s beloved dog, Smokey. We sat with him on a sunny riverbank, birds singing overhead, the wind gently moving through the trees. As my mom held him, I asked her to share memories—his funny quirks, the naughty moments, the ways he made her smile. In that space of love and remembrance, something shifted: the sadness was still there, but so was peace. Smokey passed calmly, cradled in my mom’s arms, wrapped in love and sunlight. It was a moment that changed both of us—and it’s what inspired me to dedicate my work to helping others have the same experience. Since that day, I’ve helped countless families say goodbye in the quiet, sacred space of home. The difference is profound. Without the clinical setting, there’s less fear, less anxiety—for both pets and their people. It becomes a time to focus on a life well-lived, and to offer a final gift of comfort, dignity, and love. This work is an honor. Helping families create a peaceful transition for their companions is one of the most meaningful things I’ve ever done, and I’m grateful every day to be part of such tender, important moments.

Education

Undergraduate: B.S from University of Georgia - 1991

Veterinary Medicine: University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine- 1995

Certifications

1

CAETA's CPEV (Certified Peaceful Euthanasia Veterinarian)

 CAETA's CPEV (Certified Peaceful Euthanasia Veterinarian)
  • Based InCharleston, SC
  • Service areasCharleston, SC & Surrounding Area
  • Work Experience31 plus years+ years
  • Animals ServedAll Dogs & 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. Lara Allison will help your beloved pet transition peacefully in the comfort of of their home, surrounded by loved ones

Est. CostStarting at $325

Pet cremation

Dr. Lara Allison 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 $145 - $375

Keepsakes

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

Est. CostFrom $25 - $375

Quality of life consult

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

Est. CostStarting at $150

What pet parents are saying

Dr. Lara was with Chewbacca and me on the worst day of our lives. She treated Chewbacca with such love, dignity, and compassion. I cannot say enough great things about her. None of this is easy and will never be. Having Dr. Lara there with her care and love ensured Chewbacca had the kindest and most loving departure. Thank you so much Dr. Lara, for everything.

codapet review
5.0
Nov 09 2025 by Elizabeth G.
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

Dr. Allison helped our family to care for Zoie for hopefully a while longer and keep her pain controlled. Dr. Allison is calm, has great touch with animals and is very knowledgeable. From making the appoinment to meeting with her second time, she was always responding, kept in touch and followed through with all we had discussed. Thank you!

codapet review
5.0
Jan 08 2025 by Kiki Etling
Review by Kiki Etling
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

I cannot recommend Dr. Lara Allison enough for her compassionate and gentle approach during one of the most difficult times for any pet owner. Dr. Lara has guided more than one of my beloved pets across the rainbow bridge with the utmost kindness and care. Her deep understanding, empathy, and gentle manner make this heart-wrenching process as peaceful as possible. She truly has a gift for helping both pets and their owners through this transition. Her services are invaluable, and I am deeply grateful for her support.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 19 2024 by Carla Lathbury
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

Dr. Lara Allison was so kind, comforting and professional. She made a terrible event a very beautiful moment for our family. Her experience and knowledge helped us to feel calm and have final moments with our Lucy.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 02 2024 by Mandy Collins Leonard
Review by Mandy Collins Leonard
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

I am incredibly grateful for the compassion and care shown during one of the hardest days of my life. Dr. Lara Allison treated Gus with such kindness and dignity, and her calm, gentle presence brought comfort during an otherwise heartbreaking moment. She truly made saying goodbye a little easier, and I will always be thankful for the care she gave Gus and our family.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 05 2026 by Brooke F.
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

This is the second time Dr. Allison has been there for us in such a difficult time in our lives. I requested her immediately when we knew our 16 month old golden doodle Rutledge's cancer was terminal. She is so very respectful, knowledgeable, loving, kind and calming. The peace we felt in this process at home was priceless. My sweet baby crossed over with his family and his animal family by his side while eating hotdog and whipped cream. Words are just not enough to describe what Dr. Allison gives to her patients and their families. Thank you so much for providing this alternative to traditional euthanasia at the office. Thank you again Dr. Allison for helping carrying the weight of something so painful for us.

codapet review
5.0
Apr 20 2026 by Amy L.
Review by Amy L.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture