Vet Serves in Charleston, SC

Dr. Lara Allison

Verified Veterinarian

64 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 Allison was compassionate and so caring during the process of helping our sweet boy cross the rainbow bridge. We are so happy we choose her and the in home procedure.

codapet review
5.0
Mar 07 2026 by Ginny B.
Review by Ginny B.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

My family and I will be forever grateful for Dr. Lara's compassion in our hour of need. She informed us of the entire process when she arrived, in addition to answering several questions over text that I had leading up to our appointment. We loved the way she kept asking about our pup's life with us, keeping the sole focus in the room on the love and light that he brought into our home in the last decade. It really was a beautiful experience, to say goodbye in the comfort Lando's favorite spot at the front window, with the family gathered. Thank you so much, Dr. Lara. It takes a special person to step into this occupation, and you not only do you offer the service, but you go above and beyond with it.

codapet review
5.0
Feb 21 2025 by Caroline P.
Review by Caroline P.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

Dr. Lara Allison was nothing short of amazing. What a bright light in such a dark period for pet owners! She was prompt and responsive and went out of her way to make both owner and pet comfortable. She brought treats for my dog and patiently stayed with me while I made paw prints and said goodbye. She handled transport of him for cremation. She was gentle and respectful . She genuinely cares. I highly recommend her if you find yourself in need of her services. I cannot say enough good things to express how pleased I was with her services. She really does go above and beyond.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 05 2026 by Elizabeth R.
Review by Elizabeth R.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

When Dr. Lara arrived, she took time with Hannah so that she felt comfortable with her. There was no rush. She made the visit all about Hannah's feelings , which impressed me. I felt the home euthanasia was the best way to honor Hannah. Dr. Lara Allison was gentle and empathetic during her visit. Dr. Allison contacted me several times before and after her visit. So, I felt like I knew her before we met in person. That made a difference to me.

codapet review
5.0
Apr 30 2026 by Bonnie C.
Review by Bonnie C.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

CodaPet's at-home pet euthanasia service is a highly recommended alternative to visiting a vet clinic. When faced with this difficult decision for your cherished pet, providing them the comfort of being in their own home can make all the difference. Dr. Lara Allison was exceptional—her empathy for our situation brought immense peace and comfort during this challenging time. The compassion and dedication she displays in her work truly supported us throughout the process. We cannot express enough gratitude for her kindness, caring, and professionalism.

codapet review
5.0
Apr 02 2025 by Laura Burton
Review by Laura Burton
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

In posting a review, I wanted to tell my story of never having a dog and the pain of letting her go and how the Lord chose Dr. Lara to mercifully end her life for me. But all I could come up with, were my words. But then He spoke to me! And it was a message I hear always when I'm searching. He who has Christ, has no fear. In a sermon, He sent a message from Luke 12:22-34 The end of anxiety. Dr. Lara was a gift that day because of her Faith. She had no fear that day! My only hope is, that in some small way I was able to thank her graciously enough! To Maggie Mae, my beautiful Boo boo, Rest in Peace 🙏 I love you. 🐕

codapet review
5.0
Dec 04 2024 by Joe Pierce
Review by Joe Pierce
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture