Vet Serves in Chicago, IL

Dr. Ann Gonnering

Verified Veterinarian

76 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

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

Dr. Ann was incredibly compassionate and professional during this most difficult time. We're so grateful that she helped the passing of our beloved Bella to be calm and peaceful.

codapet review
5.0
Jul 24 2024 by Joni S.
Review by Joni S.
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

Dr. Ann Gonnering provided a very sympathetic and kind at home euthanasia service for my beloved Billie. Dr. Gonnering clearly explained the process and allowed us the time we needed to say goodbye. She was also very kind and understanding with us as we cried. It can't be easy to provide this service, and I deeply appreciate that Dr. Gonnering allowed Billie to pass comfortably at home in a familiar environment with the people she loved.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 30 2024 by Thomas F.
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

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.

codapet review
5.0
Jan 19 2026 by Alicia H.
Review by Alicia H.
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture

The decision is never easy and all we wanted was our Calypso to pass peacefully and as stress free as possible. That is exactly what we got with Dr. Ann. 10/10 for her services. It was my husband's first time and I was so glad he didn't have to experience Calypso being so nervous as she would be anywhere other than home.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 09 2024 by Lauren S.
Review by Lauren S.
Dr. Ann Gonnering profile picture