Vet Serves in Fresno, CA

Dr. Karen Whala

Verified Veterinarian

422 reviews

Why I provide at-home pet euthanasia

There is truly no better way to honor our beloved pets last wishes than to help them pass, when its time, peacefully and painlessly in their sleep, at home, surrounded by family. I firmly believe it, because it is a desire we all would want when that time comes.

Education

Undergraduate: University of California, Davis

Veterinary Medicine: University of California, Davis University of Iowa

Certifications

2

Pet Loss Bereavement Specialist, Fear Free Certified

Pet Loss Bereavement SpecialistFear Free Certified
  • Based InFresno, CA
  • Service areasFresno, CA & Surrounding Cities
  • Work Experience20+ years
  • Animals ServedDogs (Over 30 lbs) & All Cats
  • Notice Required2 hours

General availability

SundayTimes 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. Karen Whala will help your beloved pet transition peacefully in the comfort of of their home, surrounded by loved ones

Est. CostStarting at $320

Pet cremation

Dr. Karen Whala 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 - $495

Keepsakes

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

Est. CostFrom $12 - $40

Quality of life consult

Schedule a 1-on-1 with a vet over a virtual conference call or at home.

Est. CostStarting at $125

What pet parents are saying

This was, unfortunately, our second time using this service. But I will never go through this any other way. The vet who came the first time many years ago had moved away so I chose Dr. Karen this time because I was present when she helped my sister say goodbye to her dog a few years ago. Her beside manner is absolutely beautiful. She's so calm, patient, caring, and soft spoken. As soon as she walked in the door, it was as if she's a regular guest in our home. She sat down on the floor and immediately made friends with our Herman. He felt safe and comfortable with her right away. She explained every step of the process thoroughly and told us what to expect. More importantly, she explained it in a way our children could understand. It had been ten years since our last goodbye, and I hope it'll be that or more until our next. But I also hope Dr. Karen will still be available when that time comes. I recommend her 100%. Thank you, Dr. Karen 🤍

codapet review
5.0
Jul 21 2025 by Sherry G.
Review by Sherry G.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr. Karen was so patient, caring, professional, compassionate and empathetic with our saying goodbye to our beloved Hendrix. She made it so much easier for all of us. Thank you so much Dr. Karen and thank you to the Koda Pet program. We’ve been recommending your program and Dr. Karen to our friends and family.

codapet review
5.0
Feb 25 2025 by gracie brunt
Review by gracie brunt
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr. Karen made the entire process as peaceful as possible. Our sweet Zeus crossed the Rainbow Bridge surrounded by his family and in his home. I’d highly recommend for anyone needing to make this difficult decision

codapet review
5.0
Jul 31 2025 by Paige Ball
Review by Paige Ball
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr. Karen Whala made my first experience with in-home pet euthanasia a very positive one. I will definitely use her service again when the time comes. She is kind and compassionate and was very gentle with my dog Sadie. Dr Whala never rushed the process and made sure Sadie stayed comfortable during the whole procedure. Choosing in-home pet euthanasia gave me an extra day to love and spoil Sadie while accepting that we were not going to have her anymore. It also gave Sadie comfort in her last hours to be free from severe anxiety that going to the vet brought her.

codapet review
5.0
Apr 13 2025 by Marianne T.
Review by Marianne T.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr. Whala is so supportively calm, companionate, and took her time which allowed me to breathe through this grief induced process!! I am speechless with gratitude!!! Thank you for what you do, it truly takes an amazing person that takes the time to do what you do and how you helped my fur baby with a loving peaceful crossing!?! I will now always do this type of in home help when any of my animals are in need again! Dr. Whala, you are a peace providing angel!! Thank you!!! Thank you!! Thank you!!

codapet review
5.0
Mar 25 2025 by Julie Nordman
Review by Julie Nordman
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Karen is a total pro, and made this event so much easier for both myself and my pet. She was calm, kind, caring, and transparent. I would HIGHLY recommend this service. My dog just peacefully fell asleep on the sofa without the stress of a vet office. As perfect as this type of experience can be.

codapet review
5.0
Jul 07 2025 by Hannah S.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala