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

TuesdayTimes 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

We have requested Dr. Whala's services three times now, and each time she has shown immense kindness, empathy, and knowledge. I appreciate her more than words can ever express. She has provided us a comfortable, peaceful and loving space to say goodbye to our fur babies in, which is priceless. Although I dread saying goodbye to my fur babies, I find solace in knowing that Dr. Whala is available to help us navigate that difficult transition. Thank you a million times over, Dr. Whala.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 21 2025 by Tiffany B.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala

Dr Whala took the time to let me come to terms is with what was going to happen. Dr Whala is a kind vet and a credit to the profession.

codapet review
5.0
Sep 16 2025 by John A.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala

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

I'm still very emotional for having to put my baby to rest.. but I'm truly grateful of how came to my home where my family was able to be supporting.. she was sensitive through the whole process, which was very nice of her.. my dog went very peacefully, and I held her the whole time in her favorite place at home.. thank u so much.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 23 2025 by Jacqueline D.
Review by Jacqueline D.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

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 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 Minimal Manik
Review by Minimal Manik
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

We have the help of Dr Whala twice now and absolutely love her and would never think of anyone else to help us lay our pet to rest. She is the most caring and loving when times are so hard .

codapet review
5.0
Nov 11 2025 by Chris P.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala