Vet Serves in Chicago, IL

Dr. Ann Gonnering

Verified Veterinarian

72 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

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

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

Thank you CodaPet for connecting us with Dr. Ann Gonnering. Dr. Gonnering was very kind and sensitve with us and our cat, Misha. She was at our home, later in the evening, less than five hours after our call to CodaPet. I sincerely recommend CodaPet and Dr. Gonnering.

codapet review
5.0
Nov 21 2024 by Leon Schrauben
Review by Leon Schrauben
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

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

Having someone come to our home made it a more personal send off for our wonderful pet, I would recommend for all pets. The Dr was very caring and explained everything beforehand.

codapet review
5.0
Apr 07 2024 by Lou Ann S
Review by Lou Ann 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

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!

codapet review
5.0
Sep 03 2025 by Jake D.
Review by Jake D.
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

Dr. Ann was so compassionate and personable. We felt as if we knew her for a long time. She explained and answered all our questions. This was our first experience with at home euthanasia. We are so glad we decided to give our baby her final time at home and highly recommend Dr. Ann.

codapet review
5.0
Apr 18 2024 by Kris P
Review by Dr. Ann Gonnering