Dr. Lara Allison

Why I provide at-home pet euthanasia

I have been a veterinarian for over 29 years and have had the experience of helping pets transition within a clinical setting and at people's homes. I have found that the most peaceful and natural way for our pets to pass is with us in our own home or in their favorite place. My first experience was with my Mom's first dog, Smokey, 24 years ago. We sat outside in the sun on the riverbank, and he was so peaceful and happy. Although my Mom was devastated, I urged her to tell me all about him and her memories of him; all of the funny stories and adorable and naughty moments. And in focusing on his life, not his death, it helped Smokey and my Mom to relax and feel less anxious, as I then helped him cross over while my Mom held him in her arms filled with love and appreciation for the time she had had with him. Smokey passed peacefully lying in the sun, on the riverbank surrounded by birds singing, the wind rustling in the trees and the river flowing by, all the while feeling love and joy, and not the stress and anxiety he would have felt in a clinical setting with my Mom anxious and grieving as well. It made all the difference to my Mom as I know it did with Smokey. Since then I have helped as many clients and friends help their companions pass at home. Seeing the difference between the two is what has motivated me to leave practice and commit my time fully to helping families help their pets transition in the comfort of their own home or favorite place. It is truly a gift that we can bestow upon our best four legged friends in their final moments, and it is with such honor and gratitude that I am able to be of service in this way.

Education

Undergraduate: B.S from University of Georgia - 1991

Veterinary Medicine: University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine- 1995

CAETA's CPEV (Certified Peaceful Euthanasia Veterinarian)