About Thornton Animal Hospital
Who We Are
Quality and Compassionate Care, from your other family doctor. We are a family-oriented hospital and it is our hope that your experience with Thornton Animal Hospital is a positive one, helping us to build and maintain lasting relationships for many years to come.
Rich History
Thornton Animal Hospital was founded over twenty-five years ago by Dr. Bruce F. Thornton and was originally located on Geneva Street in Opelika. Dr. James F. Moore IV purchased the practice in 2008 and continues to grow the hospital while working side-by-side with Dr. Thornton in the successful practice that “Doc worked many years to build.
Keeping Your Informed
Our doctors include pet owners in the medical care of your pet and we will always discuss your pet’s health care with you prior to treatment, including you in all of the decision making processes.
Genuine Care
One of the most admirable traits a veterinarian can possess is the genuine care of well-being for your pet while incorporating the practice of business ethics.
Our mission
Every pet is offered the
highest standard of care.
Dr. Bruce F. Thornton,
a native of Opelika, is a 1981 graduate of Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Thornton practiced in Louisiana upon completion of vet school before moving home to open Thornton Animal Hospital. Dr. Thornton and his wife, Debbi, have three children; Emily, Andrew and Abigail. In his spare time, Doc enjoys cooking, spending time with his rescue dog “Oy” and visiting his three grandchildren every chance he gets; Noah, Killette and Amelia.
Dr. James F. Moore IV,
a native of Daleville, Alabama, completed his undergraduate studies at Auburn University in 2000 where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Sciences. Dr. Moore was accepted into Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 2004. Dr. Moore loves all aspects of small-animal veterinary practice but especially enjoys small animal surgery, orthopedics and wound management. Dr. Moore was afforded the opportunity to practice veterinary medicine in Northwest Atlanta after graduation from vet school where he gained a lot of practical experience, proving to have useful skills in critical situations. Dr. Moore purchased Thornton Animal Hospital in 2008 and recently celebrated his 10th Anniversary of practice ownership.
Dr. Moore is actively involved in the community and feels civic service is essential to personal fulfillment and success. He is a member of Trinity United Methodist Church where he sings in the choir, The Opelika Lions Club, and Lions Club International (the world’s largest service club organization dedicated to sight and hearing preservation). Dr. Moore is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, Alabama Veterinary Medical Association, East Alabama Veterinary Medical Association, Georgia Veterinary Medical Association and Opelika Chamber of Commerce.
Dr. Moore and his wife, Kelly, have two sons, Barrett and Whit. They also have a special new princess in their home, their newest puppy “Willa Frances.” When Dr. Moore finds spare time for hobbies, he enjoys hunting, fishing, woodworking, golfing, sporting events and mostly just spending quality time with his family.
Our Commitment
Serving the Opelika Community
We are committed to the highest standard of integrity, including trustworthiness, respectfulness, courtesy and involvement in the community to which we belong. Our company was built based upon hard work with the vision to be one of Opelika’s greatest hospitals.
It is an honor to practice in this great community and we pledge to expand our knowledge and capabilities while educating the public about the benefits and responsibilities of pet ownership.