Vet Serves in Charleston, SC

Dr. Lara Allison

Verified Veterinarian

45 reviews

Why I provide at-home pet euthanasia

After 30 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 Experience30 plus years+ years
  • Animals ServedAll Dogs & Cats
  • Notice Required2 hours

General availability

Wednesday10:00 am - 9:00 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. 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 $135 - $325

Keepsakes

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

Est. CostFrom $20 - $165

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 such a blessing to us. She was so kind, sensitive, and respectful to my dog and what we were going through. Having my dog cross the rainbow bridge at home was such a gift. Thank goodness there are people like Dr. Lara to help people say goodbye to their beloved pets in a way that is the least stressful for everyone.

codapet review
5.0
Sep 10 2025 by judi V.
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

Dr. Lara Allison was wonderful! She was so kind, explained the process, asked about Loki and our journey together and befriended him upon arrival. I chose in-home euthanasia because I did not want my pet to be scared or stressed in his final moments and I did not want to be rushed. I highly recommend Dr. Allison and this service💕

codapet review
5.0
Jan 08 2025 by Erin Sirona
Review by Erin Sirona
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

My husband and I cannot thank Dr Allison enough for the comfort, care and compassion that she brought to our home that day. The service she provides allowed my sweet cat, Opie, to cross the rainbow bridge in my arms in the bedroom where he had slept for most of his life. Dr Allison explained thoroughly each step of the procedure as well as Opie’s response so well that I actually felt comfortable participating in his transition. Opie never seemed to be stressed or uncomfortable. He seemed to be at peace, as was I. I recommend highly Dr Lara Allison for end of life/transition care.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 19 2026 by Paula G.
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

Dr Allison made a very difficult, heartbreaking loss a bit easier with her kindness and compassion. She let me hold Boo for as long as I needed to. She did not rush us. She seemed to know when I was ready to hand her over to her for her post-care. I can't thank her enough for her kindness. Dawn and Mark

codapet review
5.0
Oct 22 2025 by Dawn H.
Review by Dawn H.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Our family was heartbroken when our beloved English bulldog, Cowboy, received the diagnosis of canine lymphoma. Dr. Lara Allison was there for him and for us during and after the many weeks of chemotherapy. She saw Cowboy when he was in remission, and she checked on him often by phone. When the cancer eventually came back, Dr. Lara worked with us to provide the best palliative care for Cowboy. It gave us great comfort to see that he was comfortable and happy in those last few weeks. When we knew the time was near, Dr. Lara offered to come to our home, where Cowboy was most comfortable, to help him on his final journey to the rainbow bridge. We highly recommend Dr. Lara Allison for pet parents seeking compassionate in-home care.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 15 2024 by Mike and Amy
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

Dr. Lara Allison is an extraordinary veterinarian, especially in the most challenging moments. When our beloved dog, Daisy, was ready to cross the rainbow bridge, Dr. Allison came to our home, and her presence was a true gift. She was kind, compassionate, and patient—exactly the person we needed during such a heartbreaking time. Dr. Allison took the time to ensure that Daisy was comfortable and at peace, and she supported us with genuine empathy and care. Her gentle approach and deep understanding made an incredibly difficult experience more bearable. We are forever grateful to Dr. Allison for being there for Daisy and for us, with the perfect balance of professionalism and heartfelt compassion.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 22 2024 by Martha Bird
Review by Dr. Lara Allison