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

SaturdayTimes 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 $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

This was the hardest thing me and my wife had to do .. we had our dog 15 years she was our baby we loved her and spoiled her and try to take the very best care of her.. she walked every day till her last 5 days she showed signs of pain and discomfort and eventually couldn’t get up and was crying a lot .. we wanted to keep her comfortable and let her go on her own but she was such a fighter and we couldn’t have her be in pain .. we found dr. Karen and she we like an angel sent from heaven she was so kind and gentle and explain everything got my dog very comfortable in her bed in her home and around all her family .. its very hard to lose something so close to you.. but this service made it so much easier for our dog and family to be there.. it was sad but yet very beautiful to see how much everyone loved my dog .. would recommend this to every pet owner!

codapet review
5.0
Aug 12 2025 by Jacob Z.
Review by Jacob Z.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

She is the ultimate best, most compassionate vet I have had the honor of knowing. Unfortunately, under the saddest of conditions, but that makes her even more special to go through this unbearable journey with. This is my third journey w/Dr. Whala. I know I will always want her here for future fur ones.

codapet review
5.0
Nov 19 2025 by Donna F.
Review by Donna F.
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

Dr Karen was very nice and sympathetic overall good first at home euthanasia experience. Even came earlier than scheduled appointment to help my pet pass faster and not in pain.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 31 2024 by Brenna K.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala

Dr. Karen was helpful in providing a peaceful passing for my sick kitty. She explained the process and helped keep us both calm. This was the hardest decision I had to make and she helped me come to terms with it. I would absolutely call Dr. Karen again if needed. She was kind, compassionate, and supportive for both me and my girl as we said goodbye.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 29 2024 by Katie L.
Review by Katie L.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

I found Dr. Whala very compassionate. She explained the procedure thoroughly and what to expect. She handled my Kobie as if she was her own babygirl. I’m so glad my Kobie left so peacefully at home. I highly recommend Dr. Whala.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 26 2024 by Rosie H.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala