Vet Serves in Fresno, CA

Dr. Karen Whala

Verified Veterinarian

418 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 $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

this was our second time using Dr Whala , she again performed a mostly loving goodbye , i appreciate her soft spoken ways and compassion for us whole going through this most difficult time . we appreciate her so much .

codapet review
5.0
Sep 02 2025 by Sylvia C.
Review by Sylvia C.
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

Dr. Karen made the entire process as peaceful as possible. Our sweet Zeus crossed the Rainbow Bridge surrounded by his family and in his home. I’d highly recommend for anyone needing to make this difficult decision

codapet review
5.0
Jul 31 2025 by Paige Ball
Review by Paige Ball
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

Given that it was the most devastating day of our lives, Karen made us feel so safe and warm. Her calming energy really helped us get through it. It was so obvious that she cares so much for animals and is passionate about her path. We are so grateful for Karen and Codapet. We rest easy knowing that when Grits body left our property that he was being taken care of and treated with dignity and that was so important to us.

codapet review
5.0
Oct 28 2025 by Denise & Dustin S.
Review by Denise & Dustin S.
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 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