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
SaturdayTimes 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
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 very kind and compassionate during a very difficult time for our family. She was very sweet to Maggie and made her feel at ease.
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.
Dr. Gonnering was very compassionate and sensitive to the fact that I was saying goodbye to my boy. She took the time to explain everything and never rushed me in the process.
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
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.
Dr. Gonnering helped us twice in a span of three weeks. We had to put our sweet Fiona down after bone cancer slowed her down. A few weeks later we had to put our handsome Shrek down after learning he had a large mass on his spleen. It was very unexpected but Dr. Gonnering was so compassionate and made us feel better about our decision. We are so grateful to have had Dr. Gonnering during this difficult time.
