About Us

An Uplifting Veterinary Experience

Welcome to Ellis Crossing Animal Hospital, your community-focused veterinarian in the heart of Durham, North Carolina. From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll feel the warmth of a veterinary clinic that truly cares about your pet’s well-being. Our compassionate team is here to provide personalized care tailored to your furry family member’s needs while building a strong bond with you and your pet. We’re committed to helping your pets thrive and lead fulfilling lives right here in Durham.

Your Trusted Local Veterinarian in Durham, North Carolina

At Ellis Crossing Animal Hospital, we deliver exceptional, personalized care to pets and their families in Durham and the surrounding areas, including Chapel Hill and RTP communities. Under the leadership of Dr. King, our full-service veterinary clinic offers comprehensive health plans for pets of all shapes and sizes. Need care quickly? We offer same-day appointments so your pet can get the needed attention immediately. Our dedication to top-quality care and personalized approach have made us the go-to veterinarian for generations of pet owners across Durham.

We understand that visiting the vet can be stressful for pets and their owners. That’s why we’re proud to hold Fear Free Certifications, ensuring every visit is as calm and stress-free as possible. Our team combines cutting-edge medical care with a compassionate touch, focusing on your pet’s health and happiness while providing an exceptional client experience. Let us partner with you to ensure your pet’s health, happiness, and well-being. Visit Ellis Crossing Animal Hospital in Durham, NC, and discover why we’re a trusted name in veterinary care.

Our Team

Meet the Pet Lovers Behind the Scenes

As fellow pet owners, we get it—your pets are family. That’s why we treat them with the same love and care we’d give our own. At Ellis Crossing Animal Hospital, we’re all about making sure your pet feels comfortable and well taken care of, so you can relax knowing they’re in good hands.

Dr. Emily King

Durham Veterinarian

Dr. Emily King is a North Carolina native who grew up in Greensboro but has been living in Durham since 2016. She graduated from NC State College of Veterinary Medicine in 2015 after completing her undergraduate studies at UNC a decade earlier (so clearly not a Duke sports fan!). Dr. King enjoys the variety of each day in general practice as well as building life-long relationships with canine and feline pets and their families. She also takes pride in being a Certified Fear Free professional. Her main professional interests include complex internal medicine cases, wound care, soft tissue surgery, and dentistry. She shares her home with 4 brown dogs and 4 cats (full house, I know!) and has an affinity for one-eyed pets. Outside of work, Dr. King enjoys hiking, biking, kayaking, reading, reality dating shows, and true crime documentaries.

Imani Bell

Practice Manager

With over five years of experience in veterinary medicine, I’ve had the privilege of working in fast-paced urgent care and ER settings—environments that taught me the importance of compassion, quick thinking, and calm in the chaos. While I once set my sights on becoming a veterinarian, I realized my true calling lies in being the positive, calming presence I always hoped to see in this field. My goal is to help create a warm, welcoming atmosphere where both pets and their people feel safe, understood, and cared for.

Joining the team at Ellis Crossing Animal Hospital was an easy decision—it’s a place that values heart, teamwork, and top-notch care. Every day here is a new adventure, and being part of this community is one of the most rewarding journeys I’ve taken.

When I’m not at the clinic, you can find me out chasing adventure and soaking up spontaneous moments with my sassy, five-year-old dog, Shadow—who definitely keeps me on my toes!

Tyra Everline

Customer Service Representative

With over a decade of experience in veterinary medicine, Tyra brings knowledge and compassion to every interaction. She has worked with cats, dogs, and a wide range of exotic animals, and is also a passionate science educator who loves teaching kids about animals, bugs, space, and more. Tyra treats every pet like her own and every client like family, ensuring everyone feels welcome and cared for. Fun facts: She’s obsessed with LEGOs, will 100% stop to admire a bug, and is happiest outdoors, probably naming every critter she sees.

Shila Verduin

Veterinary Assistant – Head Surgical Assistant

With over 20 years of experience as a Veterinary Assistant, l’ve had the privilege of supporting animals through every stage of life. I specialize in surgery support and have a deep love for senior pets-they’ve got a special place in my heart. Whether it’s helping with procedures or comforting a nervous pet, I’m always focused on making each visit a little easier for everyone involved. Fun fact: When I’m not at work, I’m surrounded by my own little zoo-6 dogs, 5 cats, a leopard gecko, and a bunch of chickens who definitely run the yard!

Cana Burton

Veterinary Assistant

I’ve been in the animal industry for about 8 years after graduating with a BS in Animal Science.

After spending time in doggie daycares and general practice I learned how much I love bonding with clients and growing to love their fur babies like I love my own. Anxious babies have a special place in my heart and being able to help them build their confidence makes my day.

If i’m not working I will absolutely be reading, buying more books, drinking iced coffee or trying new foods.

Our Facility

Take A Tour

At Ellis Crossing Animal Hospital, our clean, state-of-the-art facility is tailored for your pet’s joy and comfort. Your furry friend has just found the perfect place to be loved and cared for.