Vet Serves in Charleston, SC

Dr. Lara Allison

Verified Veterinarian

47 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 - $150

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

I am so grateful we had Dr. Lara Allison to help us through this process. I was having a difficult time deciding 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 were 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 to anyone who is going through the difficulty of saying goodbye to their fur baby.

codapet review
5.0
Nov 15 2024 by Carol Cottrell
Review by Carol Cottrell
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

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 Lara was the most amazing beautiful person to help me with my transition with my best friend. Above and beyond. So much compassion and grace. I am so grateful and truly recommend her

codapet review
5.0
Jun 25 2025 by Jane M.
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

When Bootsie was unable to control her bladder, at age 14, we knew it was time. Having had my first lab euthanized at the vets office many years before , I knew that wasn’t what I wanted for my Bootsie. We reached out to Dr Lara and she was able to come to our house. There was something very calming and very natural about the whole experience. Dr Lara explained everything to me in detail. Bootsie was able to lie on her bed in her favorite spot and very peacefully go to sleep. It was only a few short months later that her littermate, Beauregard was ready to leave us. Dr Lara was there for us again. It’s so hard to lose your fur babies. Im so grateful that there is a service that can treat you and your fur baby with so much kindness and so much compassion. Thank you Dr. Lara.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 15 2024 by Terrie Howlett
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

Dr. Lara is filled with compassion, love and professionalism in all aspects of being an awesome vet with your fur baby. She is an excellent communicator with any questions you may have, and willing to go the extra mile if needed. I feel so blessed in finding her.

codapet review
5.0
Mar 06 2026 by DeeDee M.
Review by DeeDee M.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Very compassionate. She cares and it shows. Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is never easy, but Dr Allison made it very dignified. Thanks

codapet review
5.0
Dec 31 2024 by Patrick H.
Review by Dr. Lara Allison