At home pet euthanasia allows your pet to pass away peacefully in the comfort of your home surrounded by love. A compassionate veterinarian will provide end-of-life care for your pet starting with an initial end-of-life exam followed by sedation to ensure your pet is comfortable. Your vet will always move at your pace so you have the time you need to say your goodbyes. Once you are ready, your vet will administer medication to help them gently and painlessly say goodbye surrounded by comfort and love.

This is one of the hardest questions to answer as a pet parent, because we don’t want to “see”our pet suffer. We feel terrible guilt when we know that our pet is suffering, and so often we will just deny what is happening because it is an awful feeling to address.This is a common experience, one of which I have gone through as well. Having a veterinarian help you determine QOL is so helpful. Some ways that we determine quality of life are by looking at your pet as a whole. Some questions to consider are: Are they happy to see you when you come through the door? Do they still want to play and interact with you? Are they still eating and drinking?Are they able to get up and go outside and go to the bathroom? Are they having any physical difficulties like vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, decreased mentation, rouble breathing and immobility? Are they having more bad days than good? Do they have a terminal illness? Remember animals do NOT show pain like we would. They will not cry or whine unless it is SEVERE. It is a survival tool that is embedded in their DNA to not show pain as it is considered a ‘weakness” in nature.

It is sometimes much easier to see your pet objectively for a brief moment in order to assess these questions logically. Then when you have answered these questions, kept a daily log for a few days, you will have more information that can help you decide if there is more medically that can be done to help, or if it is time to give them the gift of a peaceful transition in the comfort of your own home surrounded by all their loved ones.

If your pet's health is declining rapidly, it’s crucial to take the following steps:

• Consult Your Veterinarian: Schedule an appointment to discuss your observations and any scoring from a quality-of-life scale. This information can help guide the conversation about your pet's condition and options moving forward. Your vet may suggest palliative care, hospice, or, if necessary, euthanasia.

• Ensure Comfort: Create a quiet, cozy space with soft bedding and easy access to food, water, and a litter box (if applicable).

• Minimize Stress: Keep routines simple and familiar, and limit loud noises or disruptions.
  
• Offer Gentle Care: Provide soothing touch through gentle petting and offer favorite treats if they can still eat.
  
• Consider At-Home Euthanasia: If appropriate, discuss the option of at-home euthanasia with your vet for a peaceful and familiar passing.
  
• Reach Out for Support: It's okay to lean on loved ones, pet-loss support groups, or counselors to help navigate this difficult time.

If you're noticing signs of declining health, we encourage you to use our quality of life scale resource tool to evaluate your pet's condition before your vet visit.

The key difference is the setting. In home euthanasia allows your pet to pass peacefully in the comfort of their familiar surroundings, reducing stress and anxiety. This option especially benefits pets who may feel scared or uncomfortable traveling to a clinic. It also offers your family a private, intimate experience during this emotional time. While some urgent situations don’t allow for time to schedule in-home euthanasia, many pet owners in Charleston choose in-home services for the peaceful atmosphere and compassionate care their pets receive right where they feel safest. You can find flexible availability for our local vets here, or look for same-day euthanasia appointments.

No, pet euthanasia at home is designed to be completely painless. After an initial end-of-life assessment, your veterinarian will first administer a sedative to ensure your pet is relaxed and comfortable. The euthanasia medication then gently stops the heart without causing pain. The process is peaceful and allows your pet to pass without distress.

We have a network of compassionate veterinarians serving many cities across the US who provide pet euthanasia at home for your beloved dog, cat, or other pets. You can find a local vet near you in the next 7 days or call 833-263-2738 to get help from our customer care team.

While we do not offer 24 hour pet euthanasia services, we do provide after-hours and emergency care in greater Charleston. You can request same-day and urgent appointments to ensure your pet receives the compassionate care they need during critical moments.

Yes, there is typically an additional fee for after-hours or emergency appointments. You can view the estimate when you request a same-day or urgent appointment.

The cost of at home pet euthanasia can vary in Charleston and the surrounding areas. Once you have picked your provider, the cost will usuallydepend on your pet’s size and any additional services you may choose, such as cremation, keepsakes, or other services. Our services start with a base fee of $320 for in home euthanasia. If your vet is traveling further than their local area, there is a travel fee applied based on how far you are from them. At CodaPet, we believe in giving you complete transparency and control over what you are choosing for your pet’s end-of-life care. This is why you can view a detailed price estimate before you complete reserving a time with your local vet. You can view flexible availability and detailed pricing or request a same-day appointment if this is more urgent. If you have any further questions, you can view our FAQs or reach us (833) 263 - 2738.

Most providers in Charleston charge a flat fee for euthanasia, although some providers do charge based on the size of your pet, so small dogs and cats can be the same price; however, medium or large size dogs (such as Bulldogs, Australian Shepherds, Labradors, or German Shepherds) will likely carry a higher price. At CodaPet, most vets charge a flat fee for both dogs and cats; however, if there is a large pet fee, it will be applied automatically for you to review in the price estimate when you reserve an appointment. You can view the detailed pricing and availability here or call us at (833) 263 - 2738.

Here is what Dr. Lara Allison say, one of our local veterinarian:

"When you first book an appointment, I will reach out as soon as possibleto confirm the appointment and to see if you have any questions or concerns. From that point on you will have my personal cell phone number in case your pet’s condition changes or worsens. When I arrive at your house, I will do everything possible to make sure your pet does not feel alarmed or scared. I am there to hold a loving, nurturing and compassionate space for you, your family and your pet. I want to get to know you and your pet, so I often ask questions to learn about all of you. I then will also gently explain the process and answer any questions or concerns at that time. I will then perform a physical exam to ensure that I have chosen the best protocol for a peaceful transition for your pet. I usually perform a 2 step sedation process, as I find that giving just one sedative can sting and they fall asleep so quickly that it can be alarming to some. With a 2 step, there is no discomfort with the first injection and they gently drift off to a peaceful state where they are still aware of you, however they are pain free and comfortable. This is also a place in the processto spend some time alone with your pet to say whatever it is you want them to know, as they are lightly sleeping yet are aware that you are there with them. I then give a second injection which induces a deeper state of sedation, like anesthesia. This is to ensure that your pet is completely unaware of the final injection and that in no way can they feel or experience any kind of pain or discomfort what so ever. The exception to this protocol, only occurs in an emergent state where the process needs to be speeded up in order to avoid any suffering in the part of your pet. The final injection is given in a vein and is administered slowly in order to avoid any reactions. Unfortunately sometimes, due to illness and/or age, the veins can be compromised and then an area in the belly or chest needs to be accessed. Just know that if this were to happen, your pet is completely in a deep anesthetic state and will not feel or experience anything uncomfortable. This injection is very peaceful in that it goes directly to the brain centers that control the heart and breathing. Your pet will gently stop breathing. His or her last memories will be filled with the love and peace they felt all around them. Being at home with your pet is probably the single best gift we can give them. Afterwards, when you have had plenty of time to say goodbye, I will gently transport your pet in my personal car directly to the crematorium, Mcalister-Smith Funeral home." - Dr. Lara Allison

Yes, you can always choose the veterinarian you prefer, at the times they have available to reserve. You can see their real-time availability or request a same-day urgent appointment if no time suits your needs.

If you have any questions or specific needs, please don’t hesitate to reach out at (833) 263 - 2738.

Our Charleston-based veterinarians bring diverse expertise and heartfelt care to every family they serve:

• Dr. Lara Allison is a compassionate veterinarian with over 29 years of experience, dedicated to supporting pets and their families during life’s most challenging transitions. Growing up in Georgia surrounded by beloved cats, dogs, and horses, Dr. Allison’s dream of becoming a veterinarian was fostered from a young age. She earned both her Bachelor’s and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees from the University of Georgia, completing her DVM in 1995.
  
  Dr. Allison’s calling to in-home euthanasia was profoundly influenced by her first experience with her mother’s dog, Smokey, who passed peacefully in his favorite spot by the riverbank. Witnessing how the calm, natural setting eased both Smokey and her mother inspired Dr. Allison to offer this same sense of peace and closure to others. Dr. Allison believes that a pet’s final moments should be filled with love and gratitude, surrounded by familiar sights, sounds, and the comfort of their home. Her practice focuses on honoring this bond, helping families create lasting memories and offering pets a gentle, dignified farewell.
  
  To hear from other pet parents about their experiences with Allison, visit her profile here.
  
  
• Dr. Briell Dzierga has had a lifelong passion for animals that began with drawing them as a child, sparking her eventual journey to becoming a veterinarian. Born and raised in rural Massachusetts, she pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science and Technology at the University of Rhode Island, graduating in 2014, followed by her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2018.
  
  Throughout her career, Dr. Dzierga has worked with a diverse range of species, from biomedical primates to large and small animals, which has deepened her dedication to high-quality, compassionate care. As a USDA Accredited Veterinarian and CAETA-trained professional, she values the personal connections that come with in-home euthanasia, which allows her to provide individualized, peaceful care in a comfortable setting. For Dr. Dzierga, being able to offer both pets and their families this level of dignity and comfort during their final moments is her highest priority.
  
  To hear from other pet parents about their experiences with Dzierga, visit her profile here.

Each of these veterinarians is dedicated to making end-of-life care a compassionate and meaningful experience for both pets and their families.

Yes, your local veterinarian offers in-person and tele-consults depending on availability for a separate fee. In order to reserve a time to speak with a local veterinarian, please call 833-263-2738.

Note: This consultation is aimed at providing advice on end-of-life care and quality-of-life questions. Your veterinarian is not offering telemedicine and is not able to provide specific diagnosis or treatments. If you have any medical needs, please visit your primary care veterinarian.

The notice for every veterinarian differs, however, most veterinarians require at least a 2-hour notice from the time you need them to arrive at your home. This allows them time to prepare and ensure they can provide the highest level of care and compassion for your pet. It also accounts for their travel time, as your veterinarian may be traveling from many different locations around Charleston.

While you can request a same-day and emergency services, it's always best to contact us as early as possible to ensure availability and to give both you and your veterinarian time to prepare for this important moment.

During the euthanasia process, your pet will be gently guided to a state of peace and comfort. After a sedative is administered, you can expect them to become calm and relaxed, free from any pain or distress. When the final injection is given, your pet will slowly drift off into a deep sleep before passing away peacefully. Your compassionate veterinarian will ensure the process is as gentle and serene as possible, allowing you to be present with your beloved companion in their final moments of love and care.

Yes, during the in home euthanasia process, you are encouraged to be with your pet throughout the entire process. Being there provides comfort and reassurance to your pet as they pass peacefully.

Every pet is different, and you know yours better than anyone, however, it may be time to consider euthanasia when you notice more ‘bad days than good’. It’s important to keep an eye on your pet’s quality of life and try to understand when it has declined, such as no longer enjoying activities or suffering from unmanageable pain. To help you understand their quality of live, you take a Quality of Life Assessment, which helps you get a more a clear picture of your pet’s well-being at this point in time.

Remember, if you are unsure, speaking with your primary care veterinarian can help better understand your pet’s quality of life. It’s important to speak with your primary care veterinarian if you haven’t yet to understand your pet’s health. If you do not have a primary care veterinarian, consider visiting an urgent care or emergency hospital in your area.

We asked one of our local veterinarian and here is what they had to say:

"It is time to considereuthanasia when your pet’s quality of life is declining and all medical options have been either exhausted, or they are just not an option. Taking a quality of life assessment or having a veterinarian help you decide can be paramount in helping to make this decision as well. When you can measure objectively and logically what quality of life means to your pet, and you determine that they are surviving and not thriving. If your pet has a terminal illness or condition, it is important to be prepared for euthanasia in order to help them transition before they are painful or having difficulty breathing, for example. A question to ask yourself is 'Why Wait?'"- Dr. Lara Allison

Everyone’s experience in saying goodbye to their beloved companion is different and very personal. It’s important to consider that you know your pet best. Some considerations, however, are choosing a comfortable space where your pet feels safe, sometimes their favorite spot in your home. Another consideration can be to gather any family members who wish to be present and feel free to bring your pet’s favorite blanket or toys, etc that make them feel comfortable. When your veterinarian arrives they will guide you through each step in the process and help you move at your pace to ensure the process is as peaceful as possible.

"The length of the actual procedure at home is a lot more flexible than if you were in a clinical setting, and it is based on your pet’s condition and on how much time your family needs. I have spent anywhere from 5minutes (due to an emergent state) to over 2 hrs. I allow 3 hours between appointments to ensure that no-one ever feels rushed during this tender and sacred moment. In summary, from sedation to transition can take 5-20 minutes." - Dr. Lara Allison

We understand that saying goodbye is a deeply emotional experience, and we encourage families to take as much time as they need during the process. Our goal is to create a peaceful and compassionate environment for both you and your pet.

After the euthanasia, you are welcome to spend as much time as you need with your pet to say goodbye. If you’ve chosen any cremation services to handle your pet’s body, your veterinarian will reconfirm your choices and gently transport your pet when you are ready. If you’ve chosen any keepsakes offered by the crematorium, like Claw Paw Prints, Ink nose prints, or other memorabilia, your veterinarian will reconfirm your choices before leaving your home. If you have any questions or want to change your mind about any of your choices, you can discuss your options with your veterinarian before they leave your home.

After the in home euthanasia procedure, your veterinarian will provide you with time to say goodbye to your pet. Once you're ready, they will re-confirm the preferred aftercare option that you choose when reserving your time with your veterinarian. In Charleston you can select three types of cremation services:

• Individual Cremation (Ashes Returned): An individual cremation is a process where your pet will be cremated separated with physical barriers in the chamber. This ensures the separation with other pets in the chamber so you may reunite with your pet’s ashes. Your pet’s ashes will be returned to you in an urn of your choice. If you choose an additional urn then your pet’s ashes will be returned in the urn of your choice.
  
• Communal Cremation (No Ashes Returned): A communal cremation is a process where your pet is cremated in a chamber with other pets. Once the process is complete, the crematorium will respectfully scatter your pet’s remains among other pets. It’s important to note, you pet’s ashes will not be returned to you.

Some of our veterinarians offer an additional option known as Private Cremation (Ashes Returned). In this option, only your pet is in the cremation chamber, ensuring that the recovered ashes are solely your pet's. These ashes can be returned in an urn of your choice, with additional urn options available. To see if private cremation is available with your provider, please refer to our booking page.

Local Veterinarian Insights on Aftercare Services

"I use Mcalister-Smith Funeral Home because they are a locally, family owned business that has been around since 1886. When I met Gia Kondakor, their Pet Loss Director, I was so impressed with how honest, organized, caring and knowledgeable she is about pet loss and their aftercare. Her staff is also compassionate, caring and so helpful and professional. They truly are committed to providing graceful and dignified after care for your pets. Their protocol for ensuring that your pet comes back just as your pet is excellent. They understand how much we love our pets and how important this step is in reuniting pets with their loved ones." - Dr. Lara Allison

Note: If you choose to leave your pet's body with your veterinarian, rest assured it will be handled with the utmost care, respect, and dignity. Your veterinarian will coordinate all aftercare arrangements as requested, allowing you to focus on yourself and your family after this difficult goodbye.

Your veterinarian will coordinate the return of your pet’s ashes before they leave your home. Your options include having your pet’s remains delivered by your veterinarian (for an additional fee), shipping them to you (for an additional fee), or picking them up from your primary clinic or the crematorium.

Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is never easy, and we understand that cost can be a concern for many pet parents. While we specialize in premium in-home euthanasia services, we also want to acknowledge that cost may be a concern. If you're looking for low-cost options in Charleston, consider reaching out to the following:

• Local Animal Shelters & Humane Societies – Many provide low-cost or donation-based euthanasia services, often with cremation options.
  
• Low-Cost Veterinary Clinics & Nonprofits – Some vet clinics and nonprofits offer reduced-cost euthanasia, sometimes supported by grants or donations.
  
• Animal Control Services – In certain cases, local animal control agencies may offer euthanasia services for terminally ill or suffering pets at a lower cost.

Note: When considering a low-cost pet euthanasia option, it's important to call ahead to check availability, as some providers may require an appointment or have eligibility criteria, such as income-based assistance. Be sure to ask about additional costs, including cremation or aftercare services, which may not be included in the base price. Additionally, verify service details, as some options may have restrictions based on your pet’s size, health condition, or location.

While low-cost options are available, many pet parents choose in-home euthanasia to ensure a peaceful, stress-free farewell in the comfort of their home. If you're looking for a private, compassionate experience, we’re here to help.