- Based InPalatine, IL
- Service areasPalatine, IL and surrounding areas
- Work Experience2+ years
- Animals ServedAll Dogs & Cats, Poultry (chickens, ducks, geese), ...
- Notice Required2 hours
General availability
ThursdayTimes Vary Weekly
Availability each week can vary based on demand and scheduling. Please provide a minimum 2 hour advance notice for all bookings.
Dr. John Murray
Verified Veterinarian
Why I provide at-home pet euthanasia
As a veterinarian, my passion for animal, and compassion for both pets and their families led me to pursue a career in veterinary medicine since I was little. My desire to provide the utmost comfort and support during difficult times prompted me to specialize in in-home euthanasia services. By offering this compassionate and personalized approach, I want to ensure that pets and their owners receive the care and safety they deserve during their final moments together.
Education
Undergraduate: Kansas State University
Veterinary Medicine: University of Missouri
- Based InPalatine, IL
- Service areasPalatine, IL and surrounding areas
- Work Experience2+ years
- Animals ServedAll Dogs & Cats, Poultry (chickens, ducks, geese), ...
- Notice Required2 hours
General availability
ThursdayTimes 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. John Murray 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 $10 - $55
Quality of life consult
Schedule a 1-on-1 with a vet over a virtual conference call or at home.
Est. CostStarting at $150
What pet parents are saying
Dr Murray was kindly , patient , tactful and empathetic as we had to say goodbye to our beloved dog Dooley. I’m grateful for his service during this difficult time.
Dr Murray was so kind and such a calm presence. He talked us through every step and was so patient. He clearly cared about our feelings in the moment and certainly about making sure our dear dog was comfortable. So grateful to have found this service. Additionally, the reservation was easy to make and subsequent communication was very clear. Thank you CodaPet and Dr Murray.
Dr Murray was great and very understanding. He explained the whole process and made sure to explain all the steps. He gave us time to say goodbye and did not feel rushed. Our Rocky is resting now. Thank you Dr Murray.
Dr. John Murray made the worst day better for us and our beloved Cookie. It’s the hardest part of loving. He’s very compassionate.
Putting our dog to rest at home was the best decision we could have made. Dr. Murray was so sensitive and patient. He explained everything that was happening and asked about Eva and her personality during the process which lightened things up a bit during a very sad time. Thank you for that.
Jack immediately was attracted to John. Jack felt comfortable and at ease and John reciprocated. Jack was still aware and active but we knew it was time to let him go peacefully. John gave respect to Jack and loved Jack the entire time. I can't say enough about Dr Murray. Thank you!
We unfortunately had to put our beloved dog, Onyx, to sleep, and we are beyond grateful that Dr. Murray was there to guide us through it. He was incredibly compassionate, patient, and took the time to explain every step with a calm and soothing presence that truly helped put us at ease. What meant the most to us was the way he handled Onyx—with such tenderness, respect, and love. It brought us comfort during one of the hardest moments of our lives. We can’t thank Dr. Murray enough for the dignity and care he gave both Onyx and us during this heartbreaking experience.
Dr John Murray was so sweet & kind. He took his time to love on our Nova girl before having to put her down. He waned to know what she was like growing up & hear her story. Meanwhile, my other dogs were trying to distract him and one kept bringing him a toy. I will recommend Dr Murray to my friends and family & I’m sure I’ll need him again one day. Thank you for everything Dr! Keep up your wonderful work. I know it cannot be an easy job to do :(
Dr. Murray was very sincere and professional when he came to put our cat down. He explained everything and answered all questions. The very difficult process was made just a bit easier with his direction.
Dr.Murray was amazing. He was compassionate and took his time with us to make the difficult situation more bearable. He was kind and put us all at ease through the process.
When I realized I would have to put my sweet kitty, Cheryl to sleep I knew I wanted it to be at home where she felt safe and comfortable. In home pet euthanasia as an option meant everything to me. Dr. Murray was extremely kind and compassionate on one of the worst nights. I definitely recommend him and CodaPet if you ever find yourself in this situation.
I cannot thank Dr. Murray enough for the sincere amount of support and love he expressed during this time. I honestly don't know what I would have done or how I would have gotten through this time if it wasn't for him!
Dr. Murray was heaven sent for our family and our Chihuahua Voz. We knew Voz had limited time but he deteriorated quickly overnight on a weekend. Our vet was not available for compassionate euthanization when Voz needed it and we were heartbroken and anxious. A friend steered us to Dr. Murray and he made Voz a priority on a Saturday afternoon, he met us and Voz and discussed our best options. He helped us to feel comfortable with our decision and treated our Voz as if he were his own. While we were devastated, we felt comforted that this happened in a space that was important for Voz and us. Dr. Murray can never know how important he was to us that day.
Dr Murray was so very kind and a calming presence during an emotionally difficult time. He explained all the steps and was patient and took the time we needed. Of course Dr Murray was gentle and caring with our dear Charity. Additionally, all the communication prior to our appointment was clear and timely and the website was easy to navigate. So grateful to have found CodaPet and Dr John Murray for our at home pet euthanasia.
Our girl Zola got to be in her favorite place—outside, surrounded by her favorite people—for her last moments, thanks to this service. Dr. John Murray was gentle, kind, and very respectful. I wouldn’t have done it any other way. Thank you.
I've had many pets and I'm always there at the end, and I've always found vets to be compassionate. Dr. John Murray though is amazing. He took the time to ask us about Patch, how long he'd been with us, what his favorite things to do and eat were. Then between the sedative and the final injection he took his time to make sure everything was prepared correctly. He took a paw imprint and nose print while we watched. After the final injection he put a bandage over the injection point - such respect for our Patchy, and such compassion that I've never seen in a vet before. He then gave us time with Patchy before he left. He is such a kind and considerate person.
Dr Murray was very patient and compassionate. He knew this would be very hard on us and tried to help in every way he could. He asked us about Bailey-what he was like, what he loved to do. He walked us through every step and gave us time with Bailey before and once he passed to say goodbye. We appreciated his thoughtfulness and kindness during a very difficult time for us.
Wanda was 14 years old. She was such a big part of our family, we couldn’t imagine saying goodbye to her at the vet’s office. Everyone was here with her, including Kiko our 6 year old rescue. Dr John was everything we needed that day. Patient, understanding, compassionate and professional. Thank you to Dr John and Codapet, especially for the questionnaire to help understand if it was time to say goodbye. Wanda runs free now with Mel and Bruiser. Goodbye girl.
Dr Murray was so kind empathetic and caring at the most difficult time imaginable..I feel at peace knowing that we did not bring our beloved pup into a cold vet office to end his life. He fell asleep in our arms in his warm bed with the people who loved him most! I can not say enough about how much this meant to us ..knowing he was no longer suffering. I would highly recommend Dr.Murray for anyone in this situation. He returned our calls immediately..laid out exactly what the plan was...and supported us with loving caring words during such an emotional time. If ever placed in this situation again..I would never hesitate to call him again. Much love for all he did to get me and my family through this!
A wonderful vet and human being. Dr. Murray took the time to ask about our Patch’s life and what he liked to do and eat. He assured us we were making the correct decision and made sure Patch was comfortable without rushing anything. He took paw and nose prints before Patch passed and was caring to a degree I’d never experienced from a vet before. I highly recommend Dr. Murray.
We have been through the dying process with pets before, and it is never easy. This was by far the most compassionate, caring and comforting experience. We appreciate Dr. Murray's rapid response, thorough explanation to everyone in the family, and care in handling our pet and giving us time to say goodbye.
Jessi did an amazing job helping us schedule our appointment. She helped make a very overwhelming task such a breeze. Communication was above and beyond from the scheduling till before and after our visit with Dr. Murray. I can’t express enough praise and gratitude for how kind and amazing Dr. Murray was in helping our Axel boy crossover the rainbow bridge. I have been blown away by how peaceful Axel was able to pass away licking peanut butter, enjoy his favorite treat. I highly recommend everyone to give their beloved pet this final gift of a smooth transition.
Dr. Murray was exceptional and so very kind and comforting. I would highly recommend him to anyone struggling with the loss of their beloved pet. Having a home service was so very private and made a very sad time more personal and meaningful.
Dr. John Murray made the process as painless and peaceful as possible. Our cat, who was normally shy and skittish of new people (including vets) was brushing up against him and letting Dr. Murray pet him, which says a lot to me. It was clear that our little guy was not stressed out by the process, and his passing was as peaceful as we could have hoped for.
Dr John Murray is so kind and considerate. He was attentive to our dog Layla, he asked questions about her, explained what he would be doing for her and also answered our questions in a reassuring manner. He handled our old girl in a gentle and caring way and made it easier for us to get through this difficult time - he was such calming presence. This is the first time we had a pet put to rest at home, it was comforting to say goodbye this way.
Dr. John was compassionate and gentle in dealing with our sweet girl, and followed our wishes at every step, even to sweetly wrapping her and pacing her into the box for burial. He made the experience bearable and comforting.
Dr Murray was incredibly kind and compassionate. He was very patient and understanding with what we were feeling and he asked us about our little guy’s favorite things. He explained everything and was very gentle with my sweet boy. He was able to pass peacefully at home with his family rather than at a vet office which he never liked. Thank you Coda Pet and Dr Murray.
Dr. Murray was everything we needed during this difficult time. He was kind, patient, compassionate and professional. We are very grateful we found him.
Dr. Murray is fantastic. We said goodbye to our sweet girl, Juno on Feb. 3rd. Dr. Murray had the best bedside manner and was respectful and responsive to our needs during the moment. Home hospice is a passion of his and you can most definitely see this in his care. Dr. Murray made a difficult time more manageable. We can’t thank you enough for the love and support we’ve felt during this shot time we’ve known you. ❤️
Dr. Murray was very patient and gentle with my 19 yo cat Tenni. He let me take my time. Wanted to know about my girl. He suggested a treat for her while he gave the first injection. He let me take my time and also gave me time with her after she had crossed over. Very kind and stress free and my cat went peacefully. I highly recommend Codapet. Very nice vets to do this and it helps owners an patients. Thank you Dr. Murray.
Dr Murray was by far the most compassionate veterinarian I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. He came to our house on a holiday weekend allowed us to lay in the back yard with our pup and take as much time as we needed before saying goodbye. He sat with us listening to stories and laughing at the silly things our Scooter did throughout his life. When the time came Dr. Murray slipped away, tears in his own eyes until we were ready for him to take our baby. He came back over cute basket in hand tucking our boy in with such care. He took care of the cremation and followed up after. When the time comes again that we have to say goodbye to another baby we will without a doubt use CodaPet. Thank you Dr Murray for giving Scooter the best send off a pup could have!
This was my first experience with putting down a dog. In this case my Mylo. Dr. Murray had this calm collected energy when he came in and respected all my wishes of wanting to do it in my backyard. His presence kept me calm and relaxed even though it was one of the hardest things I have had to do in my adult life. I honestly wouldn’t have stayed so calm. He was informative and didn’t rush the process in the slightest. I got to give my Mylo a huge slice of chocolate cake right before he fell asleep. I definitely would recommend Dr Murray for any future dog owners. I can see why he does what he does & he truly cares about your pet & the owners. One of a kind!
While remaining professional to guide and inform me of the technical steps through the process, Dr. John Murray was at the same time compassionate and caring, and set the pace within my readiness and consideration of my sweet Panda. It is not a situation to define as good, but with Dr. Murray coming to Panda's home and facilitating what was necessary in such a caring manner, I could say goodbye without adding trauma or strangeness for Panda, and we both had our last moments together in pure love.
Unfortunately we were not able to be at home with Dr. Murray but all three of my daughters were there. They told us that Dr. Murray made a horrible situation tolerable. His wormth and compassion were overwhelming! We are so pleased that Dr. Murray was there for us on this journey. Thank u Dr. Murray!
Dr. Murray was so kind and empathetic.The compassion he provided to us and our loved one was so special. . I am forever grateful to Dr. Murray for the care and respect he showed our family and pet. Thank you so much Sarah Vidosh and Ike RIP❤️
Codapet was very helpful at a time when we didn't quite know what to do. Dr. Murray was gentle and caring. He talked us through everything and was extremely patient. We're grateful that we found Codapet at our time of need. Thank you.
Very difficult day that we had to let go of our 15 yo dog. Dr. John was very kind and compassionate with our whole family. Gave us the time we needed. Would definitely recommend him snd Codapet home services.
Dr. Murray made this experience the best it could be. His demeanor, attitude and interactions with our family were perfect. Thank you!
Dr. John is one of the most compassionate humans I’ve ever met. He is gentle and kind and understanding and is very respectful of your time and space and needs. I’ve had to out many pets down over the years and this was by far the “best” experience. He spent time with us and loved on our dog and asked all about her life and genuinely cared about our situation and our dog! He didn’t rush us or the process and was very supportive of us and showed such kindness even while doing something so hard.
Mac was my first pet- my kitty cat of 18 years. I consider myself very fortunate to have had him as a buddy for so long. So when he showed signs of his time being up, I knew from a friend -in home pet euthanasia- was a peaceful goodbye. Dr. John Murray was beyond thoughtful and professional with amazing bedside manner. Mac had a wonderful last day at home and I held him in my arms as we said goodbye. It was beyond hard, but I also wouldn’t have it any other way looking back. Mac hated his car carrier, the car, a vet office is so cold. We were in our beautiful, sunny room, comfortable and well, I’d want to go the same way! Thank you again for being so wonderful to our sweet baby.
Dr. Murray was so kind, so gentle and compassionate with our Lady. He made an incredibly difficult experience as easy as possible, and treated us and Lady with respect and care. I'm grateful to him.
Dr Murray was very compassionate and understanding. He made the whole process as easy and professional as possible. We got to say goodbye to our 12 year old Lily without her suffering.
John was so compassionate. He helped make a very sad moment into a beautiful goodbye to a loved family member. We are incredibly thankful for John’s help.
Dr. Murray was wonderful. Our perfect boy got be home with all of our family and friends who loved him as much as we do and say goodbye where he was most comfortable.
Had the most difficult time in depend on her life. They have a bad as good as Dr. John Murray, who is filled with compassion and kindness made the process. It was so painful easier to cope with. I would highly recommend him to everybody who has to go through this sad and painful ordeal.
An amazing company to help you through a most difficult time. Dr Murry arrived early upon a last minute reqeust, he was pleasant and kind. He softly explained the process and answered any and all questions....I cannot recommend them enough! We are so glad we found them to help us get through this difficult time, it's so great to be able to have this done at home where your pet feels safe and secure....our Eddie was able to finish his final moments at home with his family, safe and comfortable in his own bed. Thank you CodaPets & Dr. Murry!
Dr Murray was the kindest vet we could have asked for. He was gentle and compassionate with our pup and our family. Can’t imagine a better way for our baby to go out. Being with her in our home where she was relaxed and happy to be with her humans. Thank you.
Dr. Murray provided exceptional care when it was most needed. He helped our dear boy cross peacefully and in a way that comforted those of us left behind. Dr. Murray’s patience and empathy made a world of difference to the whole family, humans and animals alike.
Dr. Murray was so kind and gentle with both of of our dear pups. We lost them both within 6 months and Dr. Murray made us feel so comfortable with the process. He took extreme care with every detail and was so caring. We felt really comfortable knowing our girl had met him 6 months before and knew he helped her brother transition without pain. We were comforted beyond belief that Dr. Murray could support us through such a sad but beautiful moment.
Dr. Murray immediately put my mind at ease when he walked in the door. Not an overly affectionate cat, I was surprised to see Gracie put her head under Dr. Murray's hand when he reached out to pet her the first time. I do wish that I had been restraining her when Dr. Murray injected the first shot because Gracie flew off my lap and was attempting to stand on her legs within seconds of that injection (unfortunately, it's an image that I keep rehashing in my mind). My fault--not Dr. Murray's--but I was shocked how fast the first shot took effect. In spite of that memory, I will not hesitate to reach out to Dr. Murray when Gracie's sister needs to cross the rainbow bridge in the probable not too distant future.
I want thank Dr. Murray for the kindness, tenderness and compassion he showed towards our Clover and each family member. This was such a difficult and heartbreaking decision to make with so many mixed emotions reaching it. Having the option of having him come to us really helped us because Clover didn’t enjoy car rides and going to the vet was very upsetting. To be able to spare her all the stress and anxiety in her final moments and to see her slip gently pass in her own home was the best possible way to handle the passing of a much loved family member. Even as she left, she looked peaceful and asleep gently tucked in under a blanket. Lastly I want to praise him for the tactful way he handled the billing and discreet way he left his business card without intruding upon our grief. I have already spoken to friends about the care quality of his work. This must be a difficult job to perform but Dr. Murray has a genuine natural gift which he performs so well. I’m glad it was he who came to us.
I would like to start by saying I wish all could afford to do this for their beloved pet when the time comes. For us, our Madison was very high on the FAS scale her whole life. Vet visits were always very traumatic for her. When her time came, it was an immense relief that someone like Dr Murray could be there for her, and us. To have her pass surrounded by her loving family, in her favorite sunny spot, on her favorite bed, was a god send. From beginning to end, Dr Murray and CodaPet have been nothing but amazing. We have her ashes now and are focusing on the great memories. This process with his compassion, made the last sad memory much more bearable. Thank you Dr Murray, you have a great heart.
Losing a companion of 16.5 years is a devestating moment in one’s life. My senior dog had reached a point where his medical issues, pain, and confusion were too much to bear, and I had to make the hardest decision a pet owner ever faces. I cannot express enough gratitude for the vet who came to our home. If you ever find yourself in this heartbreaking position, I truly believe an at-home euthanasia is the most peaceful way to say goodbye. Being in a quiet, calm environment—away from the bright lights of a clinic, the scent of other pets, and the bustle of strangers—allowed my boy to pass with the dignity he deserved. The doctor was exceptional in every sense: Gentle Communication: He introduced the necessary paperwork with such kindness and tact; it felt less like a transaction and more like a shared moment of respect. A Calming Presence: He was soft-spoken and incredibly patient, never making us feel rushed or like we were just another appointment on his calendar. Space to Grieve: After the procedure, he stepped away and gave us precious time alone to honor our dog and begin to process the loss in private. To anyone hesitant about this process: providing a familiar, loving space for those final moments is the greatest kindness you can offer. I am so thankful to have had such a compassionate professional guide us through this goodbye.
100% recommend Dr. Murray. On such a hard day for our family, he was very understanding, comforting and communicative both before and during the appointment. He was able to make our cat's passing as comfortable as possible. We are so grateful we were able to have this procedure done at home without the typical going-to-the-vet stress.
When we unfortunately had to find someone to euthanize our beloved dog Auggie, we did a lot of research and talked to many companies to find the right professional to help us in our home. It was important for us to do this at home and make our dog feel comfortable! We received a recommendation for Dr. John Murry through Code a Pet and we are very thankful that we did. He was very communicative prior to arriving at our house and right away made us feel very at ease, at least as much as we could considering what we were about to do. Once he arrived he took the time to explain the process, how it would be done and to insure that we were as comfortable as possible and that our dog would not feel any pain. He was very considerate and compassionate the whole time. He took the time to ask about Auggie and listened while we shared stories and our history together. We have had to unfortunately do this for our prior dog and 2 cats, and wish we could have used Dr. Murry and could have done this at home like we did with our dog Auggie. It was so much more serene and comfortable for our pet to be home in his familiar environment. I highly recommend this process and especially Dr. John Murry! We couldn't have been happier all things considered. Thank you Dr. Murry!
We had to contact Coda Pets to help us say goodbye to Fritz, who had been injured and wasn't able to recover. Dr. Murray worked with such compassion it made it easier to say goodbye, and we are so grateful. His kindness and gentleness with Fritz was exactly what we, and he, needed. I am so grateful.
Dr John made one of the worst days in our lives go as smoothly as possible. He was calm and compassionate. I was so glad we were able to use Coda Pet to help our Buddy over the rainbow.
Making the difficult decision to help a pet pass is not an easy one, but I am ultimately grateful I was able to coordinate at home pet euthanasia for my beloved kitty. I have no doubt in my mind that allowing for my cat, Owen, to pass in his favorite place, where he was most comfortable, was the right choice given these heartbreaking circumstances. Dr. Murray was incredibly patient, kind, knowledgeable, compassionate, and communicative. I could have not asked anything more of Dr. Murray, he was so caring during a devastating time. I am grateful for this option and the excellent care we received through CodaPet.
Words cannot express how grateful we are for everything.we were able to get a same day appointment and the vet never made us feel rushed. He was extremely patient, kind and professional. Thank you for helping our girl to cross the bridge with no pain.
Again I would like to say that this Dr. Murray is a real doctor that cares, for our feelings and our pets. I would like him to know that I am writing him a letter, it’s just so hard to get over Taurus and am still having a hard time, I appreciate your loving care, thank you Dr Murray
Dr Murry was very professional in every step involved in peacefully transitioning my pet to doggie heaven to meet his buddies and begin his new life . Dr Murray went thru all the steps with me to ensure we were both comfortable. Thanks for all your help .
The decision to say goodbye to their beloved pet isn’t one anyone wants to make. Dr. Murray was empathetic and truly kind when he talked us through the process. His gentleness and compassion was appreciated by myself and the family as we said goodbye to our dog in the most peaceful way. Coda was absolutely the right choice if the choice needs to be made.
Our dog went downhill fast and passed away before our appointment. Dr. Murray was very understanding, responsive, compassionate, and flexible during one of the most traumatic things we’ve ever gone through. We cannot thank him enough for simply being there for us as we navigated our dog’s death and the process that comes after.
I highly recommend Dr. John Murray. He was so kind, compassionate, and professional in helping during our last moments with our precious Finney. Saying goodbye to your beloved pet is so hard and having the option to do it in our home was so comforting not only for us but for Finney. It takes a special person to do what he does and again I highly recommend him.
Dr. Murray is kind, gentle, careful, knowledgeable, patient and has the skills and all the genuine caring to handle everything the pet needs, along with its mourning people. We are so grateful to him for making the awful experience as painless as it could have been for both Caesar and us, while having to say goodbye.
On 7/18/2025, we said our hardest goodbye. Dr. Murray is truly a magnificent person with a heart of gold. He’s the kind of person you only meet once, but will forever remember and be grateful for. His dedication to care for pets and grieving family truly makes him remarkable. Dr. Murray held my baby Onyx and cared for him with such gentle love. His patience while my family and I mourned the loss of our fur-baby was soothing. His professionalism and empathy is unmatched. Thank you, Dr. Murray.
