Vet Serves in Fresno, CA

Dr. Karen Whala

Verified Veterinarian

388 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

Monday12:00 pm - 6:30 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 $0

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 $Infinity - $-Infinity

Keepsakes

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

Est. Cost

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

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

One of life’s hardest events, Karen Whala helped in so many ways me through it. She sent texts before the visit and once she arrived, she was very compassionate with our suffering pet and myself. Literally prepped in the flower bed and went to where our doggy was hiding. Her words were comforting and encouraging throughout the time she was there. So thankful for her home service. After this, no one should be driving a vehicle anywhere! Thank you Karen for your kind hear for our girl who is not in any pain now. 🐾🐾❤️

codapet review
5.0
Mar 12 2025 by Diane
Review by Diane
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

A big thank you to Dr. Whala for her help when I needed her. She was prompt, courteous, professional, friendly, and caring. She explained everything to me beforehand and during the procedure. I finally got to hold this stray cat I had been feeding for 3 years, but wouldn't let me touch him. That meant a lot to me.

codapet review
5.0
Nov 07 2024 by Kate L.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala

We cant say enough about Dr. Karen, she is kind , compassionate and it is genuine. We had to have our 12 year old GSD euthanized and although we were devastated, having it done at home was like night and day from a vet's office especially with this Dr. our dog was relaxed and it was very peaceful, we would never do it any other way or with anyone else but Dr. Whala

codapet review
5.0
Aug 06 2025 by Don and terrie d.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala

We actually have a unique story. When Dr. Karen arrived and assessed our Bandit, she said, “I don’t think he’s ready to go.” Without going in to every detail, she spent an hour with us as we observed Bandit, and discussed all that was going on with him. We determined that a medicine we were giving him was overprescribed and that was likely what caused his symptoms. Anyway, as I said, there’s much more to the story, but the end result is that Bandit is still with us! Dr. Karen was extremely compassionate, calm, comforting, not in a rush, and knowledgeable. We wholeheartedly appreciated her calm and discerning manner and the way in which she explained her thoughts and feelings to us. It is a comfort to know we now have a Dr./company we can turn to if we need to put a pet down. We live in the foothills/mountains and it is so nice to know we have Dr. Karen who would come to us in our time of need. Our gratitude is immense. Thank you, Dr. Karen. ♥️

codapet review
5.0
Dec 16 2024 by Christine C.
Review by Christine C.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

I was greatly impressed by Dr. Karen's kindness and consideration for both me and my elderly cat, Misty. She was thoughtful, knowlegable, and personable. The procedure was every bit as special as the website claimed, and I am very grateful to her.

codapet review
5.0
Apr 23 2024 by Phyllis C
Review by Dr. Karen Whala