Vet Serves in Charleston, SC

Dr. Lara Allison

Verified Veterinarian

40 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 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 $95 - $350

Keepsakes

Clay paw prints, wooden urns with personalizations available with ashes returned

Est. CostFrom $25 - $160

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 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.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Having Dr.Lara by my side as my family and I said goodbye to our much loved Daisy was invaluable. Being able to do this at home where Daisy was most comfortable gave us an opportunity to say goodbye in our time on our own terms. Dr.Lara talked us through every step with compassion and love. She took care of everything from beginning to end and made this process much easier. She is not only a wonderful vet but a wonderful person and we were so thankful to have her there.

codapet review
5.0
Feb 06 2025 by Liza Chambers
Review by Liza Chambers
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Dr. Lara was so nice and caring during such a hard time. She was a loving presence and helped our Lucy move to heaven peacefully. Thank you

codapet review
5.0
Jun 02 2025 by Scott R.
Review by Scott R.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

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

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

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