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
Saturday8:00 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 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.
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. Gonnering was amazing. She was knowledgeable and calm, willing to walk us through the experience and what to expect. She gave us the needed privacy prior to the procedure, and was the epitome of professionalism throughout the entire process. I will remain forever grateful for her easing the passing of my family member, and the grace she demonstrated throughout. I have already reached out to the emergency vet office to add her as an option for in-home services, as I only found Coda Pet through google. Her ability to come to our residence on short notice, on a Saturday afternoon allowed our family a final day together. I cannot give adequate praise to her and her services. She was perfect, and I’m so thankful she was there.
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.
We put our cat down at home a few weeks ago. The Dr was very caring and kind. She allowed space for my kids to process how they needed. She let them gather around however they wanted. She walked us through each step of the way. I highly recommend.
Dr Gonnering was fantastic. She explained the process in great detail and made sure I was comfortable with every step before it was taken along the way. I would highly recommend the in-home service as it allows your Pet and yourself to grieve in the comfort of your own home.
