Vet Serves in Fresno, CA

Dr. Karen Whala

Verified Veterinarian

414 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. Karen was totally professional, kind, calm, and caring in the worst of circumstances. The horrible necessity of saying goodbye to my beloved shepherd Ellie was made a teeny tiny bit easier because of her kindness and compassion.

codapet review
5.0
Jun 12 2024 by Jeannine K.
Review by Jeannine K.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr. Whala’s compassion and gentleness eased our heartbreak over losing Jolene. Saying goodbye in the peace and quiet of our home was priceless.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 11 2026 by Mary C.
Review by Mary C.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

She was very kind and understanding through an extremely difficult time. The process was not rushed and it went smoothly and peacefully.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 08 2024 by Kristen G.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala

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
Apr 22 2025 by Laura C.
Review by Laura C.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

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 Gloeckner
Review by Sherry Gloeckner
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr. Karen was so patient, caring, professional, compassionate and empathetic with our saying goodbye to our beloved Hendrix. She made it so much easier for all of us. Thank you so much Dr. Karen and thank you to the Koda Pet program. We’ve been recommending your program and Dr. Karen to our friends and family.

codapet review
5.0
Feb 25 2025 by gracie brunt
Review by gracie brunt
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture