Trace Crossings Veterinary + Pet Wellness in Hoover is a fully-equipped mobile veterinary clinic that brings comprehensive, hospital-quality care directly to your home, where you and your pets feel most comfortable.
Each appointment is designed around your schedule and your pet’s needs, with no anxious car rides or crowded waiting rooms.
“Home appointments reduce stress for pets and their families, making exams more accurate and handling easier,” says clinic founder Dr. Melissa Miller, a Hoover native.
“Mobile care also respects the client’s time, with no driving and no need to rearrange an entire day around a single appointment that’s running late because the clinic got behind,” says Dr. Miller, a 2014 graduate of the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine.
Trace Crossings Veterinary, which primarily serves West Hoover, officially opened January 30 and is planning a grand opening and ribbon cutting in April.
West Hoover has “a genuine need” for the mobile clinic, Dr. Miller says. “It has a large population of pets and families but limited access to veterinary care.”
In addition, Dr. Miller grew up in Bluff Park and now lives in Trace Crossings with her husband David Miller, who serves as the clinic’s operations manager, and their two daughters. “This area has always felt like home to me,” she says.
The Millers are proud that Trace Crossings Veterinary is family owned. “We wanted to create something local, personal and independent,” Dr. Miller says.
Dr. Miller is also proud of how her van is equipped. “It’s designed to function as a full-service mobile veterinary hospital, not a scaled-down clinic, with digital X-ray, ultrasound, an onboard lab, laser therapy, dental equipment and a surgical suite, along with many other advanced tools,” she says.
Just as important, Dr. Miller creates a warm, welcoming vibe for people and pets. Both Dr. Miller and Kelsey Stevens — her technician and practice manager — are Fear Free-certified.
“Our goal is for every visit to feel calm, safe and deeply personal,” Dr. Miller says.
She also takes the time to listen to clients and clearly explain treatment options. Unlike many traditional clinics, each visit is unhurried and totally centered on your pet.
“We want you to feel heard, confident and cared for every step of the way,” Dr. Miller says.
There are a few services not available on the van. For hospitalization or emergency care, Dr. Miller refers patients to Steel City Vets, and she partners with a brick-and-mortar practice for more advanced or highly specialized surgeries.
