Vet Serves in Chicago, IL

Dr. Ann Gonnering

Verified Veterinarian

86 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

SaturdayTimes 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. Gonnering was very professional and helped us immensely during a very difficult time. We are grateful for the care our little guy received.

codapet review
5.0
Jun 28 2024 by Laura P
Review by Dr. Ann Gonnering

Dr. Ann was incredibly compassionate and professional during this most difficult time. We're so grateful that she helped the passing of our beloved Bella to be calm and peaceful.

codapet review
5.0
Jul 24 2024 by Joni S.
Review by Joni S.
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

Lily was our first family dog and I never knew how much love our little pup would give us and how deeply & quickly she became a family member. It was the hardest thing in the world to see her go but so peaceful to say our goodbyes at home with her. Dr Ann was so compassionate as she explained the process and answered all our questions. She has a soft spoken, caring & calming demeanor which I believe Lily picked up on. Lily hadn’t moved from the floor all day but when Dr Ann sat near her, she got up, wobbled over to her & sat between her legs for the remainder of her time with us. I believe she knew Dr Ann was there to help her. Dr Ann was so respectful of our time with Lily. I would HIGHLY recommend Dr Ann. She brought peace to our breaking hearts.

codapet review
5.0
Sep 19 2025 by Betty D.
Review by Betty D.
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

Dr. Gonnering was thoughtful, compassionate and very accommodating. We had an emergency situation on a Friday afternoon and she was able to come to help us with our fur baby early that same evening to help him make a peaceful transition over the Rainbow Bridge.

codapet review
5.0
Mar 26 2024 by Laura L
Review by Dr. Ann Gonnering

Dr. Ann was wonderful! She is so very kind and patient with our family. We did not feel rushed and she did a good job explaining the process and what we should expect. We highly recommend Dr. Ann, she is not only professional, she genuinely cares.

codapet review
5.0
Mar 09 2026 by Ronald and Maria G.
Review by Dr. Ann Gonnering

Dr. Gonnering was punctual, very polite and gave us time to process. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience however sad as it was.

codapet review
5.0
Jun 26 2024 by Emily V
Review by Dr. Ann Gonnering