Vet Serves in Fresno, CA

Dr. Karen Whala

Verified Veterinarian

420 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. Whala was so wonderful. She really cared about us and our kitty, Atticus. She took her time and walked us through the process. There were lots of tears but I was special because we were at home and comfortable surroundings for our friend. Thanks again !

codapet review
5.0
May 14 2026 by Martee B.
Review by Martee B.
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture

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. Karen is so caring and compassionate. Dr. Karen has been to my home to take care of two of my fur babies two different times. Each fur baby has their own individual needs. And Dr. Karen takes into account what’s going on with them and does what is best to keep them from being stressed, nervous or scared. So grateful for Dr. Karen. I was able to spend the time I needed and my babies went peacefully. Meant the world to me. God bless you Dr. Karen. I would recommend Dr. Karen 100%. My heart is at peace.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 07 2025 by Christina O.
Review by Christina O.
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

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 Whala is wonderful! Upon arrival she spent time with our Pepper and the assessment is so helpful and reassuring. We did not feel rushed through the process at all. She explained every step. Most importantly she was so patient allowing our family to each love on Pepper. Her priority was making sure that Pepper was comfortable at all times! Pepper never liked visits to the vet (even though our vet office is great) and knowing that she was at home and passed peacefully was a gift. Dr Whala - thank you!!

codapet review
5.0
Sep 08 2025 by Lisa Rose
Review by Lisa Rose
Dr. Karen Whala profile picture