Vet Serves in Charleston, SC

Dr. Lara Allison

Verified Veterinarian

62 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

MondayTimes 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

Dr. Lara Allison was wonderful! This was our first in home euthanasia. She was extremely warm and caring with our 8 year old Great Dane, Piper. And the whole family as well. Dr. Allison thoroughly explained the process to the whole family (teens included). She went at our pace and made the whole experience peaceful for Piper as well as the family. I cannot say enough kind words. If I could give more than 5 stars, I would. She helped with transportation to the funeral home as well as memorial items. We absolutely love Dr. Allison!!

codapet review
5.0
Apr 12 2026 by Andtrea L.
Review by Andtrea L.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Dr. Lara was amazing with us and guiding us through the process. She treated us and our Duke with such respect. She was gentle and kind and gave us the time needed to say goodbye. Thank you Dr. Lara.

codapet review
5.0
Mar 23 2025 by Regina Cahill
Review by Regina Cahill
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Dr. Lara was wonderful! Being able to have our beloved family member cross over the Rainbow Bridge at home meant our fur baby felt calm, safe, and loved. Dr. Lara was extremely kind and empathetic with our situation, and did everything possible to help our family understand and feel comfortable with the process, as well as allow us to cry, grieve, and give all the last minute love and words of comfort we could. I highly recommend Dr. Lara if you have to make the difficult decision for your fur baby. Thank you Dr. Lara for making one of life's hardest moments easier.

codapet review
5.0
Mar 17 2025 by Erica Hattings
Review by Erica Hattings
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Dr. Lara was so very kind, patient and compassionate. We had family gathered to say goodbye to our sweet cat Cleo. She gave us time and space to love one her and say goodbye our way. DR. Lara after care was beautiful she sent us a beautiful card to us all which was lovely, in addition brought a memorial candle with pictures of Cleo and stating her birth and death dates.Thank you Dr. Lara your kindness and compassion was greatly appreciated.

codapet review
5.0
May 05 2026 by Sandra W.
Review by Sandra W.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Dr. Allison helped my family through this very difficult time. I was very unsure about an at home euthanasia experience with four children, but she treated us all with such care and compassion that I do feel she helped make this experience the best it could be. I couldn’t imagine any one else helping a beloved pet cross the rainbow bridge as well as she did. I know Scout left us feeling loved and comfortable.

codapet review
5.0
Oct 26 2025 by Kerri H.
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

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