Vet Serves in Fresno, CA

Dr. Karen Whala

Verified Veterinarian

413 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

Friday9:00 am - 1:00 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 $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 so amazing. She had such compassion, empathy, and gentleness. We couldn’t have had a better person to help us through this difficult time.

codapet review
5.0
Jun 05 2024 by Red D
Review by Red D
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr. Karen Whala is such a blessing to us. I was so touched on how she approached my Bella. Her presence comforted Bella which I never seen happened before because Bella was a nervous dog around people but not with Dr. Karen Whala. It was as if she knew she was there to help.She also helped us through the difficult process and made sure Bella transitioned painlessly and peacefully. Thank you Dr.Karen Whala for your professionalism, kindness and dedication to our beloved pets, our family members.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 31 2025 by Claudia D.
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 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.Whala helped make a very sad and emotional time as good as it could have been. I am so blessed to have had her there to help me say goodbye to Sippy . I can not thank her enough .

codapet review
5.0
Jan 28 2026 by Sandra L.
Review by Sandra L.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

Dr. Whala took great care of our sweet girl. She could not have passed any more peacefully and we will always appreciate Dr Whala and Coda Pet for helping us through this very difficult time.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 18 2025 by Karan C.
Review by Karan C.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

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