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 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
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Dr. Lara was wonderful! Being able to have our beloved family member cross over the Rainbow Bridge at home meant our fur baby felt calm, safe, and loved. Dr. Lara was extremely kind and empathetic with our situation, and did everything possible to help our family understand and feel comfortable with the process, as well as allow us to cry, grieve, and give all the last minute love and words of comfort we could. I highly recommend Dr. Lara if you have to make the difficult decision for your fur baby. Thank you Dr. Lara for making one of life's hardest moments easier.

codapet review
5.0
Mar 17 2025 by Erica Hattings
Review by Erica Hattings
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

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. Allison came to our home to help us say goodbye to our beloved dog, and I am so grateful I am for her care. I have known Dr. Allison for many years and the care and professionalism I have experienced with her has always been above and beyond. She was flexible, incredibly kind, and deeply comforting during a hard time. She explained everything gently, moved at our pace, and treated Patsy with dignity and compassion. Being able to do this at home was such a blessing for both me and my dog, and Dr. Allison made a difficult situation far less stressful. I am truly thankful for her empathy and professionalism during this difficult time.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 05 2026 by Dana W.
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

Dr. Allison is an extremely kind and caring veterinarian. When it was time to help our sweet Lupé cross the Rainbow Bridge, she not only helped us with knowing it was the right decision but also helped us navigate the difficult emotions. She explained everything thoroughly and thoughtfully answered our questions.  Dr. Allison approached the situation with the utmost professionalism and grace, patiently giving us time to say farewell to our dear furry friend.  From handling the logistics to treating Lupé as if she were her own, we can’t thank her enough!

codapet review
5.0
Aug 22 2024 by Michelle Lee
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

Dr Allison was so friendly, sweet, and professional. Her consideration of our emotions, made a hard decision much easier to handle. My dog immediately took to her. I thank her for the memorable experience.

codapet review
5.0
Jul 15 2025 by Ana H.
Review by Ana H.
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