Vet Serves in Charleston, SC

Dr. Lara Allison

Verified Veterinarian

63 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

MondayTimes 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 Allison was nothing short of amazing. What a bright light in such a dark period for pet owners! She was prompt and responsive and went out of her way to make both owner and pet comfortable. She brought treats for my dog and patiently stayed with me while I made paw prints and said goodbye. She handled transport of him for cremation. She was gentle and respectful . She genuinely cares. I highly recommend her if you find yourself in need of her services. I cannot say enough good things to express how pleased I was with her services. She really does go above and beyond.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 05 2026 by Elizabeth R.
Review by Elizabeth R.
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I can't say enough about Dr. Lara Allison! I was anxious and she helped calm my nerves. She was patient, kind, compassionate, thoughtful and extremely helpful throughout such a difficult and sad time. I knew she "felt" our pain.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 12 2024 by Shannon Wakeland
Review by Shannon Wakeland
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Dr. Lara Allison is truly an angel on earth when it comes to the difficult task of putting down your pet. When our beloved cat had gotten too ill to live comfortably, we decided to put him to sleep. She came to our home, embraced and supported us in our sadness, and painlessly administered the medication to end his suffering. I can't give enough praise for her and what she does . Home euthanasia is absolutely the way to go about this tough situation and she's the best.

codapet review
5.0
Sep 05 2024 by d l
Review by d l
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The time had come for our 14-year-old Golden Retriever, Katie, to be put to sleep. We wanted Katie’s last moments to be at home in familiar surroundings with her family. Dr. Allison, explained the procedures and told us exactly what to expect. After giving Katie the mild sedative, Dr. Allison gently wrapped Katie into a fluffy cozy blanket and placed a blanket/pillow under her head for support. When everything was in place, Dr. Allison administered the final medication, and Katie passed peacefully into her heavenly sleep. We can not say enough about how pleased we were with Dr. Allison and how she helped us through this difficult time. She was very kind and compassionate, she did not rush anything and was very sensitive to our needs. We wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Lara Allison in helping us to help our precious baby girl go over the Rainbow Bridge.

codapet review
5.0
Oct 27 2025 by Teresa S.
Review by Teresa S.
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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

I am so grateful we had Dr. Lara Allison to help us through this process. I was having a really difficult time making the decision about what was best for Guinness. Dr. Allison came to our home for a consultation. Her medical knowledge of Guinness's needs was important, but her intuitive insights into what he was experiencing and why I was struggling so much with the decision was invaluable. Just talking through all of it with her helped me tremendously. When she came to our home for our final moments with Guinness, Dr. Allison was so compassionate. Her presence allowed Guinness, and our family, to make room for healing in his transition to the other side. I would highly recommend Dr. Allison for anyone who is going through the difficulty of saying good-bye to their fur baby.

codapet review
5.0
Nov 15 2024 by Carol C.
Review by Carol C.
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