Vet Serves in Alexandria, VA

Dr. Derecka Alexander

Verified Veterinarian

13 reviews

Why I provide at-home pet euthanasia

I understand the heartache of saying goodbye to a beloved pet firsthand. During my rigorous studies at LSU, I navigated the loss of my childhood companion, Creasy. This personal experience fuels my dedication to ensuring a peaceful transition for every furry family member, turning moments of sorrow into moments of comfort and relief.

Education

Undergraduate: Louisiana State University - 2011

Veterinary Medicine: Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine - 2018

  • Based InArlington, VA
  • Service areasArlington, VA and surrounding areas
  • Work Experience7+ years
  • Animals ServedAll Dogs & Cats
  • Notice Required2 hours

General availability

Tuesday6:30 pm - 8:30 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. Derecka Alexander will help your beloved pet transition peacefully in the comfort of of their home, surrounded by loved ones

Est. CostStarting at $350

Pet cremation

Dr. Derecka Alexander 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 $75 - $600

Keepsakes

Clay paw prints, wooden urns with personalizations available with ashes returned

Est. CostFrom $20 - $65

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. Alexander was wonderful and I cannot thank her enough for helping me peacefully say goodbye to my very beloved cat and best friend of 16 years in the comfort of our home. I was worried as she was a very shy cat, but Dr. Alexander was patient and understanding and she was able to administer the sedative while my cat was calmly in my lap. Then we had her rest on a blanket once everything took effect for the rest of the procedure. The doctor even sent her sympathies in a handwritten card and hand-delivered the cremains and pawprints to me (I had ordered an extra). I was amazed at the beauty of the mementos. First a cut of her fur was placed in a small jar which she placed near a picture I had laid out. The cylinder urn is beautiful, navy blue with silver pawprints. The pawprint came lovingly displayed in a leather box that doubles as a photo frame when closed. Each came in a velvet bag. Finally, I just wanted to express my appreciation for Dr. Alexander and CodaPet for allowing me to book such an emotional procedure online when it was difficult to speak without crying, and for having late hours available even on a weekday. You came through for us when we needed it the most so my family could all be there together to say goodbye. Thank you.

codapet review
5.0
Sep 18 2024 by Melanie P
Review by Melanie P
Dr. Derecka Alexander profile picture

Dr. Dereka explained the process in detail. She made sure vickey was comfortable in every way. She made sure I was comfortable. She went above and beyond in helping me with the ongoing grieving process.

codapet review
5.0
Sep 12 2024 by Anu Bhukel
Review by Anu Bhukel
Dr. Derecka Alexander profile picture

Dr. Alexander was incredibly compassionate and she made the process very easy during a difficult time for our family. She provided an at-home euthanasia for our 16 year old dog. She was kind, patient and sincere. We are grateful for her help and allowing us to be in the comfort of our home. Highly recommend Dr. Alexander for anyone facing a similar situation.

codapet review
5.0
Mar 26 2025 by Kate Friesing
Review by Kate Friesing
Dr. Derecka Alexander profile picture

Dr Alexander was amazing. Our sweet 13 year old hound’s kidneys were failing and it was an incredibly hard decision to help her pass on. Dr Alexander came to our home last night and she had such a calming energy. She walked us through all that would happen, and our pup’s passing was so calm and peaceful. We will be forever grateful for Dr Alexander’s empathy and kindness and the gentle way she helped our sweet Violet cross the rainbow bridge.

codapet review
5.0
Sep 20 2024 by Stephanie McFadden
Review by Stephanie McFadden
Dr. Derecka Alexander profile picture

Dr. Alexander provided a professional, calming and caring experience when it was time to say goodbye to our dog. She gave us plenty of time to say goodbye, guided us through the process, and answered all of our questions. Dr. Alexander was very respectful and compassionate with impeccable bedside manners . We couldn't have asked for a better experience for us and our dog on one of the most emotionally difficult days we've ever had.

codapet review
5.0
Sep 09 2024 by Chris S
Review by Chris S
Dr. Derecka Alexander profile picture

Putting our 18 year old fur baby was one of the hardest things I’ve had to do. Dr. Alexander was so kind, compassionate and professional. She made things as bearable as they could be when we were so distraught. I hope not to have to do this again. But if I do. I would have Dr. Alexander by our side again.

codapet review
5.0
Mar 09 2025 by Maria
Review by Maria
Dr. Derecka Alexander profile picture