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

Tuesday10:00 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

Dr. Lara Allison was a true blessing to us and to Lucy. She was understanding and knowledgeable. Thanks to her we will never have our pets, that are family, taken to a vet to be euthanized.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 13 2025 by Lee R.
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

Dr. Lara really is special, she was completely equipped and ready. Buddy was my longest companion and my first to have passed from old age, I was a mess. Dr. Lara made the whole process clear, she walked me through each step, and made the whole process very special.

codapet review
5.0
Sep 15 2025 by Amy N.
Review by Amy N.
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

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 is absolutely amazing...I would never call another Vet. to take care of us...She took care of my sweet Annabelle and my husband and I like we were member of her family.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 15 2025 by Cheryl W.
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