Dr. Ann Gonnering
Verified Veterinarian
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
Thursday8:00 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
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 simply great. She was kind, and compassionate and explained everything that was going to happen. Our kitty was at ease and he slipped away peacefully in my arms. Thank you, Ann for your kindness and the gentle way you treated Parsley.
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.
Very Helpful and compassionate way of saying goodbye to someone or something so Beautiful and special to us!! Forever in our Hearts (Princess)
Ann Gonnering is incredibly kind, thoughtful and compassionate, which is pivotal in this type of emotional experience. She provided incredible support and love, as if it was for her own pet and family. Her heart makes her incredibly poised to serve in this role and make a horrible situation as meaningful and positive as it can be. We are so touched by her care and support. She gave us all the time we needed with our beloved fur-family member and allowed a respectful and love-filled passing.
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
The decision is never easy and all we wanted was our Calypso to pass peacefully and as stress free as possible. That is exactly what we got with Dr. Ann. 10/10 for her services. It was my husband's first time and I was so glad he didn't have to experience Calypso being so nervous as she would be anywhere other than home.
