Vet Serves in Fresno, CA

Dr. Karen Whala

Verified Veterinarian

427 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

TuesdayTimes 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 $145 - $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 Whala Was the absolute sweetest, most professional Dr that I’ve used for these services. Had I known about her years ago, I would’ve been using her for my previous pets when it was their time to be euthanized. She was very informational and told you everything she was doing before she did it. Dr. Karen Whala Truly made an INCREDIBLY difficult situation go smoothly and with her support. I couldn’t recommend Dr. Karen Whala more, honestly one of if not the best Dr to contact when in need of these services/ or an honest consultation of if your pet is even ready for euthanasia.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 27 2024 by Frank Papi
Review by Frank Papi
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

SHASTA’s POEM Shasta, golden flame Snow's whisper sang your song Water's rhythm was your heartbeat Your spirit soared over mountain peaks Squirrel's dance was your joy Your eyes saw through to the soul Love's nectar quenched our thirst Each moment, a brushstroke in your art Seventeen years, a journey complete You're the timeless note in our symphony Thank you for helping Shasta at the conclusion of her well lived full dog life. A peaceful death is a gift she deserved. .

codapet review
5.0
Apr 01 2025 by Andreas H.
Review by Andreas H.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

She was extremely kind and respectful. I love how she explained to us what she was doing every step of the way, and spoke to my kitty with such care.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 14 2025 by Emma D.
Review by Emma D.
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 Cardenas
Review by Lea Cardenas
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr. Karen came highly recommended by a good friend of mine. I am so grateful that she was available the morning that I had to make the decision to lay my Boerboel to rest. She arrived on time and made this tough decision so much easier. She has such a calm, peaceful presence and took her time, waiting for the right moment for when Tesla was ready to let go. I am forever grateful to her for making this experience a bit easier. I highly recommend Dr. Karen Whala!

codapet review
5.0
Sep 03 2024 by Kathy H
Review by Kathy H
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