Vet Serves in Chicago, IL

Dr. Ann Gonnering

Verified Veterinarian

87 reviews

Why I provide at-home pet euthanasia

Growing up in the Chicago suburbs and earning my degrees from the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana, I have always been surrounded by a deep love for animals. My childhood was filled with poems and diagrams centered around them, making it clear that veterinary medicine was my calling. After spending some time practicing in New Zealand, I experienced the profound impact of in-home euthanasia for the first time. The peaceful and intimate nature of that process resonated with me, and I knew I wanted to bring that comfort to pet parents back in the U.S. In-home euthanasia allows me to provide a compassionate farewell in a familiar environment, ensuring pets and their families can navigate this difficult time together. My own experiences with my cats, especially Archie, a survivor of FIP, have deepened my understanding of the emotional journey families face during end-of-life decisions. Each of my cats has a story, from the rescue of Elgin, found almost frozen on the side of the road, to Jasper, who traveled with us from New Zealand. These experiences drive my commitment to offering gentle and respectful care when it matters most. I believe that every pet deserves a peaceful end surrounded by their loved ones, and I strive to provide that for each family I serve. My passion for animals compels me to ensure that this final journey is handled with the utmost care and compassion.

Education

Undergraduate: University of Illinois, 2016

Veterinary Medicine: University of Illinois, 2020

  • Based InChicago, IL
  • Service areasChicagoland & Surrounding Cities
  • Work Experience5+ years
  • Animals ServedAll Dogs & Cats
  • Notice Required2 hours

General availability

SundayTimes 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. Ann Gonnering will help your beloved pet transition peacefully in the comfort of of their home, surrounded by loved ones

Est. CostStarting at $400

Pet cremation

Dr. Ann Gonnering 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 $200 - $515

Keepsakes

Clay paw prints, wooden urns with personalizations available with ashes returned

Est. CostFrom $45 - $150

Quality of life consult

Schedule a 1-on-1 with a vet over a virtual conference call or at home.

Est. CostStarting at $250

What pet parents are saying

Dr Ann Gonnering could not have been more sympathetic and gentle during this painful process. It meant the world to us that she was patient enough to help us find peace, in our decision to end the suffering of our turning 13 years old golden retriever. She was unbelievably knowledgeable about everything that was likely going on with him. Her information of treatments informed us of how little time it would buy (with much of it being recovery) and the high risks of a surgical procedure. Thank you CodaPet with all of our hearts for supporting us in this time of need. Words can't truly express how much it meant to have our pet leave our lives in such a relaxed, comforting and quick way.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 14 2025 by AlyseR
Review by AlyseR
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

Dr. Gonnering was very kind, and took time to explain everything to our family prior to the procedure. She was great with our other two dogs, who were busy trying to get into her medical bag to look for treats. When the time came, she treated our Rose with tenderness and dignity. It was a difficult day, but being able to let our girl pass at home, in her favorite spot and with her favorite people, made it feel a little less overwhelming.

codapet review
5.0
Apr 13 2024 by Julie R
Review by Julie R
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

We are so incredibly grateful to Dr. Ann Gonnering for the compassion and kindness she showed during one of the hardest moments of our lives. Saying goodbye to our beloved dog, Thor, was devastating, but having it done at home made all the difference. She was calm, patient, and deeply empathetic, giving us all the time we needed. Thor passed peacefully and comfortably, surrounded by love. We couldn’t have asked for a more gentle and respectful experience. Thank you for helping us give him the goodbye he deserved.

codapet review
5.0
Apr 29 2026 by Stacey J.
Review by Stacey J.
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

Dr. Gonnering was so patient and compassionate at a very difficult time. I felt Cubby Boo had the best care possible at home where he was comfortable. I am grateful to her.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 21 2025 by Patrice D.
Review by Patrice D.
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

She made the experience so sweet and solemn from start to finish. I had many thoughts about doing this and she put me at ease. She made Grace passing over the Rainbow Bridge a beautiful experience and peaceful for both her and me.

codapet review
5.0
Sep 08 2024 by Anthony M
Review by Anthony M
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

We had to put our beautiful dog Lucy down and decided not to stress her out by bringing her to the vets office plus we didn't feel we would be able to get her there without hurting her by carrying her in and out of the car. Dr. Ann from Codapet, was wonderful, helped us get through the procedure while being very patient and thorough. Explained everything to us. It was so hard for us to let her go but felt this was the best solution to put her at peace.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 17 2025 by JC Marecki
Review by JC Marecki
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture