Vet Serves in Charleston, SC

Dr. Lara Allison

Verified Veterinarian

61 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

WednesdayTimes 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

She gave careful attention to who we were and what would matter to us. She could not possibly have done a better job in any way whatsoever. Our dog Sarah was taken great care of from start to finish. I will tell anybody I talk to about my loss how great she was to all of us. Me, my husband and my other dog Nikki were all close to Sarah to help comfort her. And Sarah was taken care of right where she was in her comfort zone with her favorite view.

codapet review
5.0
May 15 2026 by Tammy O.
Review by Tammy O.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

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

Our family was heartbroken when our beloved English bulldog, Cowboy, received the diagnosis of canine lymphoma. Dr. Lara Allison was there for him and for us during and after the many weeks of chemotherapy. She saw Cowboy when he was in remission, and she checked on him often by phone. When the cancer eventually came back, Dr. Lara worked with us to provide the best palliative care for Cowboy. It gave us great comfort to see that he was comfortable and happy in those last few weeks. When we knew the time was near, Dr. Lara offered to come to our home, where Cowboy was most comfortable, to help him on his final journey to the rainbow bridge. We highly recommend Dr. Lara Allison for pet parents seeking compassionate in-home care.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 15 2024 by Mike and Amy
Review by Dr. Lara Allison

Dr. Lara was amazing. Saying goodbye to our sweet dog could have been traumatic and terrible, especially with two sensitive teenagers. Instead it was a loving and tender and even beautiful experience. All four of us were able to hold him and let him know how much we love him. Dr Lara thought of every detail to help us say a peaceful and loving goodbye. We are beyond grateful to her for her empathy and kindness.

codapet review
5.0
Oct 23 2025 by Laura C.
Review by Laura C.
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

On March 15th I had to say goodbye to my Manz after 15.5 years of love and being by my side. Dr Lara came highly recommended and I understand why. Her professionalism, kindness, compassion and empathy shown through in a difficult time. Everyone at Coda Pet was amazing. My Mokie is home now, thank you Dr Laura

codapet review
5.0
Mar 26 2025 by Raven Lee
Review by Raven Lee
Dr. Lara Allison profile picture

I am incredibly grateful for the compassion and care shown during one of the hardest days of my life. Dr. Lara Allison treated Gus with such kindness and dignity, and her calm, gentle presence brought comfort during an otherwise heartbreaking moment. She truly made saying goodbye a little easier, and I will always be thankful for the care she gave Gus and our family.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 05 2026 by Brooke F.
Review by Dr. Lara Allison