Vet Serves in Chicago, IL

Dr. Ann Gonnering

Verified Veterinarian

73 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

Monday8:00 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 - $460

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 compassionate and sensitive to the fact that I was saying goodbye to my boy. She took the time to explain everything and never rushed me in the process.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 20 2024 by Vanessa M
Review by Vanessa M
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

Dr. Ann was wonderful. She answered all of our questions and was very sympathetic to our situation. Having our dog pass at home was a very family oriented experience. Thanks to everyone that we dealt with from Coda

codapet review
5.0
Aug 29 2025 by James M.
Review by Dr. Ann Gonnering

Dr. Gonnering was very patient with me and my 2 other reactive dogs when she came to help my Roxie transition. She was very gentle with her and it was the best experience I could have hoped for.

codapet review
5.0
Sep 15 2025 by Kathleen C.
Review by Kathleen C.
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

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.

codapet review
5.0
Sep 15 2024 by Alyssa L
Review by Alyssa L
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

Dr. Ann Gonnering provided a very sympathetic and kind at home euthanasia service for my beloved Billie. Dr. Gonnering clearly explained the process and allowed us the time we needed to say goodbye. She was also very kind and understanding with us as we cried. It can't be easy to provide this service, and I deeply appreciate that Dr. Gonnering allowed Billie to pass comfortably at home in a familiar environment with the people she loved.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 30 2024 by Thomas F.
Review by Dr. Ann Gonnering

We are incredibly grateful for the compassion and professionalism shown during our kitty’s euthanasia. Dr. Ann explained the process gently and gave us the time and space we needed to say goodbye. We truly appreciate the care and support we received.

codapet review
5.0
Feb 27 2026 by Toma D.
Review by Dr. Ann Gonnering