Vet Serves in Fresno, CA

Dr. Karen Whala

Verified Veterinarian

403 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 Experience19+ years
  • Animals ServedDogs (Over 30 lbs) & All Cats
  • Notice Required2 hours

General availability

Sunday10:00 am - 3:30 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. 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

Dr Whala came to our home on short notice and took great care of our dog Charlie. So thankful for her calm comforting demeanor. She was so kind and we are grateful for her compassion and care. Never easy to say goodbye to our furry friends, but Dr Whala made the experience more bearable by being so kind and gentle

codapet review
5.0
Nov 06 2025 by stacy s.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala

Our family could not be more pleased with the gentleness and medical expertise when preparing our German Shepherd to go to Rainbow Bridge. Dr. Karen Whala was gentle and extremely informative. She took her time and her grace and knowledge made everything very special in a very difficult time. Thank you❤️

codapet review
5.0
Sep 16 2024 by Shelly Shamshoian
Review by Shelly Shamshoian
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 Whala was very great she was gentle and caring of our dear and loving bear. We really appreciate your support and kindness. Thank you.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 01 2025 by Rachel Chitay
Review by Rachel Chitay
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Karen was so compassionate when it came time for Hoppy to leave us. She was so kind and understanding of our plight. Animals are truly family and she was respectful of that. When it is time for your fur baby to go it is wonderful that someone out side of your family sees that I cannot say enough about Karen and wish her all the best.

codapet review
5.0
Mar 22 2025 by Ted S.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala

Our experience with Dr. Whala was an incredible one. Our 17 year old cat had been living with kidney disease for several years, but it progressed rapidly the last two months. Within a few days he greatly declined and we were faced with the unthinkable choice of putting him to sleep or continuing to care for him while he suffered unnecessarily. When we finally decided to have him humanely euthanized, our regular vet's office recommended CodaPet. We had to make a very fast decision, and were able to book an appointment with Dr. Whala the very next morning. From the moment we booked to the appointment, everything went professionally and with the utmost compassion. Dr. Whala texted the next morning to confirm everything and explain the process. When she arrived, she was extremely kind and caring, and made allowed our entire family the time and respect to spend as much time as we needed with our beloved cat. She explained the entire process and was just lovely in her demeanor. It was obviously an emotional time, and she knew exactly how to proceed without overwhelming us. As the visit continued, she explained everything she was doing and made sure to ask us if we had any questions or concerns. She provided compassionate care and went above and beyond to respect this difficult time. For anyone wondering if this is the route for them to take, I highly recommend at-home euthanasia with Dr. Whala. Yes, it was difficult and not an enjoyable time, but I can't thank her enough for the care she took to help our beloved Indy cross the rainbow bridge. If you are in a similar situation, or questioning whether this is the right decision for you, I absolutely recommend using Dr. Whala and allowing her to help your loved one pass on with dignity. Thank you Dr. Whala for honoring our cherished pet.

codapet review
5.0
Apr 06 2025 by Adela G.
Review by Adela G.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture