Vet Serves in Chicago, IL

Dr. Ann Gonnering

Verified Veterinarian

82 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

MondayTimes Vary Weekly

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 - $515

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 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.

codapet review
5.0
Oct 17 2025 by John B.
Review by John B.
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

Dr. Gonnering was wonderful. My BellyAnne immediately took an interest in her with wagging tail. I believe BellyAnne knew that Dr. Gonnering was there to help her cross the rainbow bridge and be well again. Thank you Dr. Gonnering...I will recommend you to anyone that needs these services, Jacquie Tromer in loving memory of BellyAnne

codapet review
5.0
Jun 23 2025 by Jacquie T.
Review by Dr. Ann Gonnering

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

Having to say goodbye to our cat was unexpected and so terrible. Dr Gonnering has the kindest most gentle disposition and we were so grateful to be able to work with her and in the comfort of our own home. It was the best we could have ever asked for given saying goodbye is always, by nature, a painful experience. Thank you for taking such care to make those last moments less traumatic for both our cat and for us.

codapet review
5.0
Apr 24 2026 by Lynette A.
Review by Dr. Ann Gonnering

She made the experience so sweet and solemn from start to finish. I had many thoughts about doing this and she put me at ease. She made Grace passing over the Rainbow Bridge a beautiful experience and peaceful for both her and me.

codapet review
5.0
Sep 08 2024 by Anthony M
Review by Anthony M
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

Dr. Gonnering was the most gentle and caring Veterinarian I have ever encountered. She was extremely experienced, yet willing to make certain concessions based on our specific needs for Roxy. She treated all of us like family members, and the feeling was mutual. Rick Henley

codapet review
5.0
Jan 04 2025 by Richard H.
Review by Richard H.
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture