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

SundayTimes 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

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 very kind and calm. Putting Bear down was an awful decision I did not want to make and wasn’t expecting so soon. I also appreciate she hand delivered his ashes back to us. I miss him terribly but know his final moments were very peaceful.

codapet review
5.0
Nov 20 2024 by Stephanie Cheng
Review by Stephanie Cheng
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

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

We had to make the very difficult decision to lay our sweet Riley to rest. Dr. Laura Allison was kind, patient, and deeply compassionate. She brought us comfort during one of the hardest moments our family has faced.We are very grateful to have found Dr. Laura Allison. -The Hill Family

codapet review
5.0
Mar 18 2026 by Amy E.
Review by Amy E.
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

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