Vet Serves in Fresno, CA

Dr. Karen Whala

Verified Veterinarian

423 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 $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 was professional, caring, and a blessing. Having her come to my house in order for Baby to be comfortable in the company of the entire family made the difference given the difficult situation of saying goodbye to our precious German Shepherd, Baby. We appreciate the services she provides to make sure Baby was treated with love and care.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 28 2025 by Victoria R.
Review by Victoria R.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Losing our beloved Bully was one of the hardest moments for our family, but Dr. Karen Whala helped us through it with compassion, grace, and genuine care. From the moment she arrived, she created a peaceful and comforting environment that honored Bully’s life and eased his passing. Dr. Whala was incredibly supportive—not just to Bully, but to every member of our family. Her presence brought comfort during a heartbreaking time, and we are so grateful for her gentleness and professionalism. The resources shared by the CodaPet team were thoughtful and meaningful, especially the grief support and memorial ideas. It truly felt like we weren’t alone. Thank you, Dr. Whala and the entire CodaPet Care Team, for helping us say goodbye with dignity and love. We will never forget it. — Villarreal Family

codapet review
5.0
Mar 27 2025 by Paco Villarreal
Review by Paco Villarreal
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Thank you Dr Whala for helping us go thru this. We highly recommend. She had a caring touch and friendly bedside manner. We knew our beloved family member was in great hands. Thank you again Dr Whala. The Matsuhashi Family

codapet review
5.0
Jul 19 2025 by Denise Matsuhashi
Review by Denise Matsuhashi
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr. Whala is empathetic, compassionate, and patient. She helped our dog Brody smoothly transition into the next phase of life. She created a calm and loving environment and allowed us to grieve and say our goodbyes without making us feel rushed. She made sure Brody was comfortable and at peace throughout the process. I highly recommend Dr. Whala to anyone who is trying to peacefully help their animal transition over the rainbow bridge.

codapet review
5.0
Nov 25 2024 by Lea M.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala

Dr Karen was very professional and considerate during the whole process of putting down our beautiful dog Rex. We deeply appreciate her kindness and help.

codapet review
5.0
Oct 23 2024 by Ward Y.
Review by Ward Y.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Where do I start? My dog, Einstein, was diagnosed with lymphoma three weeks prior. It exploded throughout his body faster than the doctors expected and while he and I were on a road trip. Einstein woke one day, in obvious pain. I got lucky and found Dr. Whala through CodaPet. She was able to come see me that afternoon. It was either that or wait 4 days for the next availability (it was Thanksgiving). When she came to our house, she took the time to say hello and let Einstein and me get to know her. After she observed him and I explained his situation, she helped him pass in the most peaceful way I've witnessed. It's difficult for me to express exactly how peaceful it was, except to say, I couldn't have wished for someone to treat my buddy better. There was no pain and he felt loved. There was no sudden change but rather, a gentle transition. It's never easy making this choice but I feel Dr. Whala was the right choice for Einstein.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 13 2025 by Joseph I.
Review by Joseph I.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture