Vet Serves in Chicago, IL

Dr. Ann Gonnering

Verified Veterinarian

70 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

Friday8:00 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

While being heart wrenchingly painful due to our pet's passing, our in home pet euthanasia experience was all we could ask for. Peaceful, dignified and gentle. Our vet explained everything, step by step. We had choices as to how involved we wanted to be. She was very empathetic to our situation and helped make our cats passing painless and honorable, just as we had wanted and wished for. I highly recommend this service to pet owners.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 22 2024 by Abigail F.
Review by Abigail F.
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

Dr. Ann was truly incredible. She came to our home to help our sweet Morkie, Leila, cross the rainbow bridge, and I can’t express how grateful we are for her compassion. From the moment she arrived, she was gentle, calming, and so respectful of our emotions. She walked us through every step with such kindness and made sure Leila was comfortable, peaceful, and surrounded by love. During one of the hardest moments of our lives, she created an environment of peace that we will never forget. I would recommend her without hesitation. We are forever thankful for the gentle, loving care she gave our little girl.

codapet review
5.0
Nov 17 2025 by Kaitlyn M.
Review by Kaitlyn M.
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

Dr. Gonnering was amazing. Made the process very quick for our boy, and let us take the time we needed to grieve. Would use her again in the future.

codapet review
5.0
Apr 13 2025 by Lindsey Perry
Review by Lindsey Perry
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

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

codapet review
5.0
Jan 31 2025 by laura g.
Review by laura g.
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

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.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 23 2023 by Nick N
Review by Dr. Ann Gonnering

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.

codapet review
5.0
Aug 30 2025 by Abby T.
Review by Abby T.
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture