Why I provide at-home pet euthanasia
Becoming a veterinarian was a natural choice for me given my upbringing in which nearly all activities revolved around our animals. I followed the passion that was instilled in me by my family. I performed my first at-home euthanasia in 2007. It was an amazing experience with an owner and pet I had been caring for in clinic. I'll never forget what a beautiful day it was as I watched the owner kiss each of her dog's feet as he fell asleep in his beloved yard. It opened my eyes to how euthanasia could be and should be. Since then I have strived to provide excellent service so my clients and patients have the best possible experience in such a difficult and tender time.
Education
Undergraduate: Bowling Green State University - 1988
Veterinary Medicine: Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine - 1992
Certifications
3CAETA's CPEV (Certified Peaceful Euthanasia Veterinarian), Human-Animal Bond Certified, Fear Free Certified
- Based InLittleton, CO
- Service areasDenver, CO & surrounding areas
- Work Experience33+ years
- Animals ServedAll Dogs & Cats
- Notice Required2 hours
General availability
Wednesday10:00 am - 6:30 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. Lori Schmalz will help your beloved pet transition peacefully in the comfort of of their home, surrounded by loved ones
Est. CostStarting at $329
Keepsakes
Clay paw prints, wooden urns with personalizations available with ashes returned
Est. CostFrom $18 - $386
Quality of life consult
Schedule a 1-on-1 with a vet over a virtual conference call or at home.
Est. CostStarting at $225
What pet parents are saying
Dr Lori was so incredibly empathetic and professional. She helped us send our furbaby over the rainbow bridge in our backyard under a tree on a sunny spring morning. She treated our Bear with compassion, dignity, and respect. She was so kind to us as we went through this very sad loss of our boy of 16 years. I will call her again to help my other aging babies cross the rainbow bridge when their time comes. Thank you, Dr Lori for guiding us and helping us through this difficult event.
Dr. Lori made, what is undoubtedly one of the most painful experiences - in home pet euthanasia - as comfortable as can be. She was so warm, caring, and understanding of what emotions our whole family was going through. She helped us as we were struggling with that question that I’m sure many people experience. Are we making the right decision and is it the right time? She gave us so much reassurance. She was also so loving towards our sweet Max, who didn’t understand what was going on. It felt like she had known him a long time. She was gentle and yet professional and helped him pass peacefully. She gave us all as much time as we needed afterwards and cared for him like he was her own dog. Can’t say enough of how appreciative we are towards Dr. Lori.
Dr. Lori was simply amazing. She was so caring and sympathetic from the moment she stepped into our home. She explained the process very clearly and made us feel Very comfortable. At no point this she try to rush my baby’s passing. She made her feel comfortable until the point she wasn't feeling anything anymore. She allowed us to let Pancha go with dignity and honoring her beautiful life. My whole family, kids and dogs were allowed to be present and everyone was able to go through the process at their own pace. I highly recommend coda and Dr. Lori. Thank you again for being so caring.
After over 16 wonderful years with my beloved shih tzu, Pumpkin, the time came to say goodbye. It was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make, and an incredibly emotional time. Dr. Lori and Codapet helped make this heartbreaking process as gentle and compassionate as possible. Dr. Lori was incredibly kind and supportive throughout, treating both Pumpkin and me with deep care and respect. She ensured Pumpkin’s passing was peaceful and comfortable, and for that, I am truly grateful. Even now, thinking about it brings tears to my eyes. Thank you, Dr. Lori, for your compassion and for helping my sweet girl leave this world with dignity. I’m still waiting to bring her home, but I know in my heart that this was the kindest way she could have gone. Your kindness and comfort meant the world to me. My baby is now at peace, and I can grieve knowing she was surrounded by love and gentleness in her final moments. That kind of peace is truly priceless. Thank you again.
Grief is tough, there's no way around it, especially when the one who departs is very close to your heart and is pretty much your furry twin soul. Dr Schmalz offered guidance and advice during the whole process and was very kind and compassionate with everyone involved in the process, especially with Jazzy Pizzazzy. I hope I never have to go through this experience again, but if I do, Dr. Schmalz will be my first choice. Thank you Doctor, for making everything more bearable.
What am incredibly difficult decision it is lead your baby to the Rainbow Bridge. My Chloe had turned 14 on Valentine's Day, and although she'd been slowing down for over a year, the beginning of March proved that she was getting markedly worse. After researching home euthanasia services I decided on CodaPet. I was able to schedule the date and time on line which was simple but anything but easy. Dr Lori arrived at the appointed time and was very understanding and respectful. She answered all of our questions and honored all of our wishes. She was gentle and caring and treated our Chloe with the utmost respect. I would absolutely recommend Dr Lori and CodaPet for anyone having to go through this gut wrenching part of being a dog parent.😭
