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
Wednesday8:00 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 on time and great about communicating with us. She told us what to expect, answered all of our questions, and was kind throughout the whole process. Im grateful that she made an incredibly difficult day a bit less stressful than it otherwise could have been.
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.
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.
I am so thankful for Dr. Ann Gonnering. She was able to help our family through one of the hardest days as we lost our cat Sir. Dr. Gonnering was kind enough to meet us exactly where we were, which was laying in bed surrounding sir. She sat on our bed and explained the procedure in detail, allowed for questions, and was patient. She was very calm and reassuring and allowed us to move at the pace we felt comfortable with. Sir passed very peacefully and with dignity and I will never be able to say thank you enough for that. I can’t imagine ever having to go through this at a vets office. Dr. Ann Gonnering was very communicative and kind throughout the whole process. All of the details were coordinated by them which helped make the process easier. The crematorium they used was incredible - a very loving family that runs the business. THANK YOU!
Dr Gonnering was amazing. It was a very sad day for our family, but Ann was so kind and soft spoken. She allowed us all the time we needed to say good bye to our loved pet, told us everything that was happening. She gave us the impression that she had all the time in the world for us. I was so impressed with Dr. Gonnering that I tried to find out if she worked at a local vet office for the new puppy we got after this. Sadly we could not find her online. Figured if she was that kind in death, she would be even better in life.
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.
