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

Thursday10:00 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 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.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Dr. Lara was amazing. Saying goodbye to our sweet dog could have been traumatic and terrible, especially with two sensitive teenagers. Instead it was a loving and tender and even beautiful experience. All four of us were able to hold him and let him know how much we love him. Dr Lara thought of every detail to help us say a peaceful and loving goodbye. We are beyond grateful to her for her empathy and kindness.

codapet review
5.0
Oct 23 2025 by Laura C.
Review by Laura C.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

As a first time dog owner, when we unfortunately got to the point where end of life was a reality for Arnold (our 13 year old Olde English Bulldog), the thought of when, where and how to experience that situation was super overwhelming. Thankfully we had Dr. Allison to shepherd us through that process to allow us to make the right decision at the right time, while experiencing those last final moments and memories in the comfort of our home (vs. in a waiting room where our dog also became anxious and nervous). Her genuine care and thoughtfulness of not only our dog, but with us made a dreaded situation as manageable and convenient as possible for us. We can't imagine anyone being a more perfect fit for professionally and gracefully handling such an emotional situation.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 15 2024 by Austin Elliot
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

On March 15th I had to say goodbye to my Manz after 15.5 years of love and being by my side. Dr Lara came highly recommended and I understand why. Her professionalism, kindness, compassion and empathy shown through in a difficult time. Everyone at Coda Pet was amazing. My Mokie is home now, thank you Dr Laura

codapet review
5.0
Mar 26 2025 by Raven Lee
Review by Raven Lee
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

In posting a review, I wanted to tell my story of never having a dog and the pain of letting her go and how the Lord chose Dr. Lara to mercifully end her life for me. But all I could come up with, were my words. But then He spoke to me! And it was a message I hear always when I'm searching. He who has Christ, has no fear. In a sermon, He sent a message from Luke 12:22-34 The end of anxiety. Dr. Lara was a gift that day because of her Faith. She had no fear that day! My only hope is, that in some small way I was able to thank her graciously enough! To Maggie Mae, my beautiful Boo boo, Rest in Peace 🙏 I love you. 🐕

codapet review
5.0
Dec 04 2024 by Joe Pierce
Review by Joe Pierce
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

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