Vet Serves in Fresno, CA

Dr. Karen Whala

Verified Veterinarian

403 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 $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

We had a very sudden decline of our beloved dog and Dr Whala was completely sympathetic and allowed us to go through the process in a very peaceful and calm manner. It's so wonderful that there are people who help us as we lose our pets in such a professional and understanding way.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 31 2025 by chris w.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala

Dr. Karen came highly recommended to us by our local veterinarian, Armstrong Pet, and we now know why. Dr. Karen made this really difficult process a beautiful experience for our family. She talked us through each step of the process and was sensitive to the emotions of our young son. She was empathetic, patient, and provided us the time and space to say our goodbyes. I have already shared her contact information with other that are facing this difficult situation with their pup. Thank you for providing such a humane option in crossing the rainbow bridge 🌈🐶

codapet review
5.0
Nov 30 2024 by Brooke B.
Review by Brooke B.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

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

I am sure all the vets are great, but I can only speak about Dr. Karen. Dr. Karen was fantastic; we appreciated her listening and compassionately answering all our questions. She explained the process and took her time. We were all able to love on Lucky and say goodbye. She gave him some prosciutto with a relaxant, and from the time he walked back to his spot, he started falling asleep. Lucky was ready :( It happened very quickly, and then she gave him a shot, and within a few minutes, he was gone. She didn't rush; she waited until we were ready. I am so relieved that we could say goodbye to Lucky at home, surrounded by those who loved him.

codapet review
5.0
May 25 2025 by Kimberly H.
Review by Kimberly H.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

I'm still very emotional for having to put my baby to rest.. but I'm truly grateful of how came to my home where my family was able to be supporting.. she was sensitive through the whole process, which was very nice of her.. my dog went very peacefully, and I held her the whole time in her favorite place at home.. thank u so much.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 23 2025 by Jacqueline D.
Review by Jacqueline D.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

We have the help of Dr Whala twice now and absolutely love her and would never think of anyone else to help us lay our pet to rest. She is the most caring and loving when times are so hard .

codapet review
5.0
Nov 11 2025 by Chris P.
Review by Dr. Karen Whala