Vet Serves in Charleston, SC

Dr. Lara Allison

Verified Veterinarian

51 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

Saturday10:00 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 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

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. Allison was fantastic. She really helped my wife and I during a difficult time with our dog, Rosie. We could really tell she cared about what she was doing.

codapet review
5.0
Mar 17 2026 by Mathew L.
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

Dr Lara was the most amazing beautiful person to help me with my transition with my best friend. Above and beyond. So much compassion and grace. I am so grateful and truly recommend her

codapet review
5.0
Jun 25 2025 by Jane M.
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

When my beloved dog was diagnosed with a terminal illness, I was devastated and unsure of how to handle her final moments. When the time arrived, Dr. Lara Allison came to my home and provided the most compassionate and professional care I could have hoped for. Her calm demeanor and gentle approach immediately put both my dog and me at ease during such a difficult time. Dr. Allison's expertise was evident as she handled everything with the utmost care, allowing my dog to pass peacefully in the comfort of her own home. The love and compassion she showed were truly remarkable, and I will forever be grateful for her support during one of the hardest days of my life. Dr. Allison’s new mobile home euthanasia practice is a testament to her dedication to providing compassionate end-of-life care for animals. I wholeheartedly recommend her services to anyone in need of such care. Thank you, Dr. Allison, for your incredible kindness and professionalism.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 15 2024 by Stirling Harper, MD
Review by Dr. Lara Allison