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

ThursdayTimes 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

Our family was faced with the dilemma of a 15.5 year lab that was having extreme difficulty with daily life. Her biggest fear in life was a trip to the vet. Seeking alternatives, we searched for in home euthanasia options. We selected Dr Lara Allison from all her great reviews. She lived up to her reputation. When she arrived, she not only cared for the family, but was very intent on making our pet at ease. She is a very caring person. Saying goodbye to a loving pet is one of the most difficult things people face, and while it isn't easy, Dr Allison showed she cared. Thank you for being a special person.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 23 2024 by patrick hill
Review by patrick hill
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Though we may not have control of when we say goodbye to our animals, we sometimes have the choice as to where and with whom we will face this impossibly hard decision. I grew up with dogs my whole life, welcoming many into my family and was fortunate enough to also be there at the end of their time on Earth. The bond I had with Bruce (the first dog that was really just mine, after college) was and remains one of the most important, special connections I will ever have the pleasure of experiencing. A trusted friend, life coach, and confidant, Lara extended her in-home euthanasia services to me when Bruce could no longer enjoy his life. It was emotional and scary as I wondered if I was doing the right thing. She comforted me and stood by me, supporting my decision. She carefully explained the process- what would happen before, during, and after - leaving out anything too overwhelming or unnecessary for me to know. She performed the service in my home and handled Bruce’s cremation for me as well. Bruce passed away peacefully in the comfort of his favorite chair. Admittedly, this testimonial is difficult to write as it conjures a painful memory, but I often reflect on how much more discomfort I would have experienced having to take him to a sterile, foreign environment in order to say goodbye to my best friend. Lara was calm, collected, kind, and invaluable in making the entire situation much more palatable for me, and for Bruce. His and my comfort were of utmost importance. It is impossible to imagine having to go through that event in any other way. My new dog has taught me how to love again, and with that, we've created a special, different kind of bond - one that I never thought I could have after losing Bruce. He’s stable, but suffering from cardiomyopathy and has limited time left earthside. I know one day, maybe sooner than I would like, I will have to make another hard choice. I rest easy and find peace knowing that when it is his time to transition into another realm, Lara will be there, in the comfort of our home, Gus on his favorite chair, getting the best pets and receiving all the love he deserves. I cannot recommend Lara enough - her heart is SO big - the service she provides is complicated, necessary, and special. In my opinion, she is the perfect person for this difficult job.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 15 2024 by Becca Barnet
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

We had Lucy, a rescue that we adopted when she was 10 months old. She was a great family pet. She found her forever home. Our two young children grew up with her. And still talk about her today. After 13 years as a family member, because of medical reasons, we knew that it was time to let Lucy go. We decided that it would be better for Lucy to be in our own home as opposed to a cold clinic. Dr Allison came over to our house to perform the procedure. It was the best situation it could have been. Because Lucy was in her own surroundings, she was relaxed and not stressed. Dr Allison not only took care of Lucy, she had compassion with the humans as well. The time she took with us was priceless. She explained what was happening and did not rush our grieving. We have all heard that hindsight is 20/20. And clearly this was the best way to handle an emotional situation.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 15 2024 by Evy Silcox
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

Dr.Allison is simply amazing. I couldn't have asked for a better person to help me with my dog Raven. She was just wonderful and so compassionate and caring.

codapet review
5.0
Mar 12 2026 by Deborah O.
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

We had an absolutely amazing experience with Dr. Allison. We called her to our home to meet with our cat who has a terminal illness- to help guide us in next steps. We went over our cat’s current medical regimen, bloodwork numbers, etc. It’s important to us that our cat enjoys quality of life for as long as possible. Dr. Allison displayed not only her knowledge of veterinary medicine, she also showed us kindness, compassion and empathy. Our very shy cat was drawn to her immediately, and we were all able to take part in a spiritual healing. Although we know our cat’s prognosis is bleak, Dr. Allison offered a new perspective for all of us, and we are beyond grateful. When the time comes to make a hard decision, we know who we will call, but Dr. A offers so much more to our family. She’s been a blessing.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 10 2025 by Rebecca Wollenberg
Review by Rebecca Wollenberg
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Dr. Lara Allison was so kind, comforting and professional. She made a terrible event a very beautiful moment for our family. Her experience and knowledge helped us to feel calm and have final moments with our Lucy.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 02 2024 by Mandy Collins Leonard
Review by Mandy Collins Leonard
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture