Vet Serves in Fresno, CA

Dr. Karen Whala

Verified Veterinarian

428 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

WednesdayTimes 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 $145 - $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

She was very kind and understanding through an extremely difficult time. The process was not rushed and it went smoothly and peacefully.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 08 2024 by Kristen G.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala

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

Karen was the kindest and thoughtful person. She dealt with us so patiently and understood our pain. We are so happy that we found this option for our Allie. I couldn’t bear the thought of it being done in a facility that would have caused her stress. She took to Karen and was very calm. Our girl was able to leave all her pain and struggles behind in the comfort and warmth of her own home and with those who loved her by her side. One of the saddest days of our lives was made a little easier knowing we did this for her and in the best way possible. They handled everything. Thank you so much! Our highest recommendations!

codapet review
5.0
Aug 07 2025 by Ray G.
Review by Ray G.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr. Whala was amazing and made a very difficult time a little easier. She was not in a rush and made sure our dog was comfortable and that we were ready for the process to begin. I was very impressed with Coda Pet and highly recommend them and Dr, Whala.

codapet review
5.0
May 27 2026 by Sharon M.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala

During one of the hardest times for us, Dr. Whala provided compassion and competency for our beloved Puppa. We are deeply grateful for the kindness she showed, and for relieving her pain.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 16 2026 by Mandi R.
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