Vet Serves in Chicago, IL

Dr. Ann Gonnering

Verified Veterinarian

77 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

Saturday8:00 am - 9:00 pm

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 - $475

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

While being heart wrenchingly painful due to our pet's passing, our in home pet euthanasia experience was all we could ask for. Peaceful, dignified and gentle. Our vet explained everything, step by step. We had choices as to how involved we wanted to be. She was very empathetic to our situation and helped make our cats passing painless and honorable, just as we had wanted and wished for. I highly recommend this service to pet owners.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 22 2024 by Abigail F.
Review by Abigail F.
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

Dr Ann Gonnering was great. Loosing our Miley was devastating but she was kind and patient with us. She told us everything that would happen and took her time. She was so gentle with Miley. I would use her again and will recommend her to anyone who needs her help.

codapet review
5.0
Oct 03 2024 by Cyndy Englehart
Review by Cyndy Englehart
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 had no idea what to expext but ann was kind and nurturing and explained it to us in depth! it was a good experience to be in our own home thank you

codapet review
5.0
Jan 31 2025 by laura g.
Review by laura g.
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

Dr Ann is very compassionate. She made this process the best that it could be by giving ample time for us and helping us feel calm and at ease.

codapet review
5.0
Oct 14 2025 by Christine S.
Review by Christine S.
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

Dr Gonnering was an Angel in disguise. She made this heartbreaking decision much easier for me because of her sincere compassion and knowledge. After performing a thorough examination, she assured me that it was time for my Tinkerbelle to cross over the rainbow bridge. And that I was making the right decision. Dr Gonnering treated my Tinker with such gentle care to keep her comfortable. I felt I could hold her forever, there was no rush. Whenever I was ready to let her go. She helped prepare Tink for our transfer to the crematory. I will never forget the comfort Dr Gonnering brought to myself and my family during this very difficult time. I will never ever forget her.

codapet review
5.0
Jul 10 2024 by Estelle L
Review by Dr. Ann Gonnering