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January 14, 2025 | Katelyn Biefeldt

CodaPet offers Knoxvillians a new, peaceful path to part with their pets

The start-up was founded to ease the anxieties of pets and their owners near a pet's end-of-life.

For many pet owners, saying goodbye to a beloved animal is one of the most heart-wrenching experiences. Traditionally, families have taken their pets to veterinary clinics for end-of-life care. But a new service in Knoxville, led by local veterinarian Dr. Mackenzie Treece, is offering a more compassionate alternative: in-home euthanasia.

CodaPet, a growing company focused on providing peaceful, at-home euthanasia for pets, has launched in the Knoxville area. Treece, a longtime resident of Northeast Knoxville, is spearheading the effort locally. Her goal is to ensure pets can spend their final moments in a comfortable and familiar environment, surrounded by loved ones.

“I chose to provide in-home euthanasia services because I believe it’s the most peaceful way for pets and their families to say goodbye,” Treece said. “Being at home, in their owner’s arms, is a gift we can give our pets at the end of their journey.”

Treece brings years of experience as both a primary care veterinarian and an emergency clinician, having graduated with a degree in Veterinary Health Science from Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) in 2021 before earning her doctorate. She has witnessed firsthand the emotional challenges families face in clinical settings and hopes to offer a more comforting option.

The concept of in-home euthanasia is not new, but CodaPet is working to make it more accessible. Co-founders Dr. Karen Whala, Dr. Gary Hsia, and Dr. Bethany Hsia launched the company with the mission of empowering veterinarians to provide compassionate care in the home setting.

“It is my wish that every family in Knoxville become aware of at-home pet euthanasia so they may provide a peaceful and compassionate end-of-life experience for their beloved pets,” Whala said. “As an in-home euthanasia veterinarian, I repeatedly hear the heartfelt gratitude from families who appreciate being able to offer this gift to their pets.”

CodaPet’s services are now available in Knoxville and surrounding areas, including Mascot, Powell, Clinton, and New Market, among others. For Dr. Treece, the focus is on giving families and their pets a final memory that’s filled with dignity and peace.

By bringing this service to Knoxville,  Treece hopes to offer pet owners a comforting way to honor the bond they share with their furry family members, allowing them to say goodbye in a space that feels safe and familiar.



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