Vet Serves in Fresno, CA

Dr. Karen Whala

Verified Veterinarian

396 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

Thursday12:00 pm - 6:30 pm

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 $20 - $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 made my first experience with in-home pet euthanasia a very positive one. I will definitely use her service again when the time comes. She is kind and compassionate and was very gentle with my dog Sadie. Dr Whala never rushed the process and made sure Sadie stayed comfortable during the whole procedure. Choosing in-home pet euthanasia gave me an extra day to love and spoil Sadie while accepting that we were not going to have her anymore. It also gave Sadie comfort in her last hours to be free from severe anxiety that going to the vet brought her.

codapet review
5.0
Apr 13 2025 by Marianne T.
Review by Marianne T.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr. Karen Whala was just the perfect answer to a difficult decision in sending our German Shepherd Luke to Heaven. Dr. Whala was gentle, took the time to exam and bring assurance to both our dog and our family. This was a difficult day but Dr. Whala made it reassuring and gave us the piece of mind we needed. Thank you so very much.

codapet review
5.0
Sep 29 2024 by Shelly S
Review by Dr. Karen Whala

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 made 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 Adela G.
Review by Adela G.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr. Whala came to our home to help us through the passing of our dog Dakota. It was the hardest thing we had to do. Dr. Whala was wonderful. Through her kindness, compassion, and caring demeanor, it made this painful experience more bearable. We are so grateful for her and would trust her to help us in the future with our other fur babies. Highly recommended.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 02 2025 by Claudine B.
Review by Claudine B.
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

Dr. Karen Whala was such a blessing! We are so thankful she came to our home and made us feel at ease with our little Jordan. Thank you for letting me hold her during the entire time. Your kind heart and soft nature made this difficult time more peaceful. Thank you!

codapet review
5.0
May 03 2025 by Nicole Radke-Petzinger
Review by Nicole Radke-Petzinger
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture