The Southeast Animal Hospital sits on the corner of Pennsylvania Avenue and Prout Street across from Interstate 295.

The large blue sign “Dog & Cat Hospital” hanging on the building’s side has been a landmark in the Southeast community for decades. The business is still going strong in a city where change is inevitable. Keeping a business in tact and community oriented may be daunting for some, but for Dr. Melvin Howard it’s just part of the job.

“We really try to get to know our clients on a one-on-one basis,” says Dr. Howard.

On Saturdays it’s first come, first served at the Southeast Animal Hospital. A proud owner brings her large pit bull in for a checkup. Constance Burns is worried about a small bump on 9-year-old Turbo’s back. It seems to be a difficult task to lift an animal weighing over 100 pounds onto the examination table, but the doctor and his assistant, Dorian Gray, get it done. Turbo seems to be in good health but a little nervous in the doctor’s office. Dr. Howard advises Burns that bumps are normal for dogs Turbo’s age. Then Howard directs Burns’ attention to Turbo’s increasing weight. With more weight comes more heartworm medication. All the facts add up to more money out of Burns’ pocket. Dr. Howard emphasizes to Burns that if her beloved pet doesn’t lose weight, it could cost her in the long run. Burns is relieved that the bump isn’t serious and promises to put Turbo on a “serious” diet.

Now the hard part is over, and Turbo must be lifted off the table and guided out the door. The waiting room is small, so when a big dog like Turbo comes through, everyone must be prepared to move out of the way. His owner knows this, and she prepares because she doesn’t want another animal to catch Turbo’s attention. Dr. Howard calls out to two pet owners with small dogs to clear the way for Turbo’s exit. Turbo seems to be more interested in getting on with his day instead of visiting his canine peers. The grand exit goes smoothly.

This is just a typical day for the Southeast Animal Hospital. Sometimes the occasional ferret finds its way to the hospital, and Dr. Howard graciously turns the owner away. But before he does, Dr. Howard makes sure to refer the worried owner to the right place. That kind service shows a care and consideration for all animals that helps keep the Southeast Animal Hospital in business.

“We have done some advertising in the local phone book and one ad in the Hill Rag, but most of our customers find out about us through word of mouth,” beams Howard.

Dr. Howard, a native of Maryland, graduated from Purdue University and then came to Southeast Animal Hospital to work for Dr. Harold Melman. In 1978, the 30-year-old Dr. Howard bought the business from his mentor and set out to continue a legacy. For the past 23 years, Dr. Howard has served as the CEO and sole expert. With a relaxed demeanor, Dr. Howard says it hasn’t been easy balancing the two roles.

“Before purchasing, I had a lot more free time, but as an owner I am responsible for everything,” says Howard with a smile.

It’s apparent that Dr. Howard has a love for animals. Surprisingly, his best animal friends at home are not of the canine and feline species.

“I just have a couple of birds and fish. I have enough animals here!” he exclaims.

Howard estimates that three to four thousand dogs and cats walk through his door every year. His clientele base stays strong, but sometimes the building gets lost in the background.

“We have a good location, and it’s highly visible,” says Howard. “It’s been visible for so long that it’s invisible.”

Dr. Howard is most proud of the fact his personal touch to veterinarian medicine is not like some of the big animal hospital chains.

“I try to keep my prices reasonable, and my service has a personal touch that my clients can’t get anywhere else,” says Howard.