Vet Serves in Fresno, CA

Dr. Karen Whala

Verified Veterinarian

429 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

ThursdayTimes 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

Taking the initial steps was the hardest decision I’ve ever made. Having Dr. Karen Whala as part of my Stoney’s final moments leaves me with a sense is peace. She was incredibly patient and compassionate throughout the entire process and treated both he and I like family. I can’t begin to put into words how grateful I am that my Stoney was able to be home in his last chapter surrounded with love and his favorite human by his side!"

codapet review
5.0
Jun 24 2025 by Lori Clark
Review by Lori Clark
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

I am grateful for the service Dr. Karen provided. She was not only knowledgeable but also very professional, understanding, and empathetic. She explained everything she was doing and what to expect. She handled everything afterward and brought my friend back to me after the cremation. While it was beyond Dr. Karen’s control, I only wish my dog Zoey had a lot more white whiskers on her face before I had to say goodbye.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 20 2024 by Nicolas R.
Review by Nicolas R.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr. Whala is one of the most incredible, caring, intelligent person I have ever met. She turned the worst day of my life (so far) into a loving, meaningful experience. Words simply cannot describe the care that Dr. Whala took with my beloved dog. My dog passed in peaceful comfort thanks to Dr. Whala. Dr. Whala also provided us with peace with the decision that the timing was right. Working with Dr. Whala was one of the best decisions that i have ever made. I am truly grateful to Dr. Whala and will remember her for the rest of my life. The Fresno community is beyond lucky to have Dr. Whala working in it.

codapet review
5.0
Mar 14 2025 by Sara S.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala

Dr. Karen Whala was just the perfect answer to a difficult decision in sending our German Shepherd Luke to Heaven. Dr. Whala was gentle, took the time to exam and bring assurance to both our dog and our family. This was a difficult day but Dr. Whala made it reassuring and gave us the piece of mind we needed. Thank you so very much.

codapet review
5.0
Sep 29 2024 by Shelly S
Review by Dr. Karen Whala

Dr Karen was the kindest most compassionate vet. She made our dog Lexi very comfortable before putting her down. It was nice to be able to have her put down at home in a nice peaceful setting. I would highly recommend her.

codapet review
5.0
Apr 03 2026 by Tari S.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala

Dr Karen Whala is wonderful! Upon arrival she spent time with our Pepper and the assessment is so helpful and reassuring. We did not feel rushed through the process at all. She explained every step. Most importantly she was so patient allowing our family to each love on Pepper. Her priority was making sure that Pepper was comfortable at all times! Pepper never liked visits to the vet (even though our vet office is great) and knowing that she was at home and passed peacefully was a gift. Dr Whala - thank you!!

codapet review
5.0
Sep 08 2025 by Lisa Rose
Review by Lisa Rose
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture