My Unexpected Journey into the Pure Barre World

Chattanooga has a brand new kind of veterinary clinic, and it’s one that’s rethinking the entire experience for both pets and their parents. Vetopia Animal Health, located in Hixson, was designed with a clear vision: to create a true “utopia” for animals, owners, and the veterinary staff who care for them.

“Vetopia is this idea of a utopia for pets, people, and the people that work in the veterinary industry,” explains Dr. Bello, who co-founded the clinic with her husband Jerren.

From the beginning, the goal wasn’t just to build another vet office.

“It was always my dream to have a place where people could bring their pets and we could give them the care they deserve," said Bello. And what better city than Chattanooga to do it?”

A New Approach to Veterinary Care

One of the biggest ways Vetopia sets itself apart is by focusing on collaboration and transparency.

“Our biggest differentiator is we try to involve the pet owner as much as possible,” says Dr. Bello. “I talk them through what I’m seeing step by step, so they’re a part of it.”

This approach extends beyond the exam table.

“We wanted to create a space where it was calming. Animals felt secure. People felt like they had the space to feel whatever emotions they wanted to feel.”

Better Pet Care Through Better People Care

The clinic’s motto, “better pet care through better people care,” speaks to the heart of its mission.

“Better pet care through better people care means we can’t forget pets come with people- and if we don’t care for those people, we’re not doing them a service.”

That focus on people extends to Vetopia’s staff as well.

“I really wanted to create a place where people came to work and they absolutely loved what they did and they left feeling like they accomplished something great every day.”

When I visited the vet for the first time with Mailbox (my dog), I truly saw this mission played out. The employees love their job, I as a pet parent felt very cared for, and Mailbox honestly loves his visits to the vet!

The Experience for Pet Parents

From the moment Mailbox and I walked through Vetopia’s doors, I could tell this wasn’t going to feel like a typical vet visit (and I've been to many vets in Chattanooga!) I was greeted, offered complimentary coffee (and it was actually FIRE coffee- I really liked it as someone who's not in to a lot of coffee!), and was taken back to a themed waiting room.

Each exam room has its own unique destination-inspired theme, which immediately gave us a sense of calm. During Mailbox’s check-up, I noticed how different the process felt compared to other clinics. I was actually taken to the back and got a behind-the-scenes look at what Vets do! 

"I think our biggest differentiators is we try to involve the pet owner as much as possible," Dr. Bello told me. "So I know a lot of people are like, 'oh, they took my dog to the back...' and nothing bad happens to your pet in the back, I promise, but I understand like as I've gotten older, and I have a kid, that there is this kind of 'mysteriousness' about what's going on back there, and why is it taking so long. And so the idea with Vetopia was, why don't we just have the owner be present for the appointment as much as possible? Not only so that they feel more comfortable and their pets feel more comfortable, but I think it's really important for people to see what we do behind the scenes, because I think that it gives more value to what we as an industry provide."

It was neat seeing firsthand the team caring for my sweet fur baby. And rather than rushing through, Dr. Bello carefully walked me through everything she was seeing. That level of transparency made me feel empowered and connected- like I was truly part of Mailbox’s care.

Vetopia has also invested in technology to make that collaboration seamless. Screens and tablets in the exam rooms allow pet parents to see diagnostics in real time.

And honestly? The vibe is just different. With cozy touches, a coffee machine, and music playing softly in the background, it feels nothing like a sterile, intimidating clinic.

“We want it to feel like you’re not at a hospital, but you’re just hanging out in your living room… It’s a really relaxed, upbeat vibe. Most of the time we have good tunes going on, so it’s just like a fun feel.”

Mailbox certainly picked up on that- instead of being anxious like he has been at other clinics, he wagged his way through the visit. It truly felt like a place designed for both pets and their people to feel comfortable.

Family-Owned, Not Corporate

At a time when many veterinary clinics are being bought by large corporations, Vetopia is proudly family-owned.

“Family owned was really important to us… a lot of hospitals are being bought by corporate entities, and people feel like they’re losing that family feel. We wanted this to be the opposite.”

Dr. Bello says building Vetopia with her husband has made the journey even more meaningful.

“At the end of it, being able to step back and the two of us know that we did this together- it just makes it that much sweeter.”

A Vision for the Future

Vetopia isn’t just focused on one clinic- it’s about becoming part of the community.

“My bigger vision for Vetopia is to be super involved in the community- community outreach, helping the pets of Chattanooga. One day maybe opening another location, but the goal is to support Chattanooga and the pets as much as we can.”

Vetopia Info:
address: 1043 Executive Drive, Suite 104, Hixson, TN 37343

Contact: (423) 644-2125, info@vetopia.vet

Website: https://www.vetopia.vet/

Hours: Monday–Friday: 8:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Saturday–Sunday: Closed

TLDR?

Dr. Bello sums it up best:

“The one thing I’d want Chattanooga to know about Vetopia is that we care as much about them as we do their pets. We want this to be a collaborative experience.”

With its people-first philosophy, calming environment, and family-owned approach, Vetopia is ready to become a true second home for Chattanooga’s pets and their parents.

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To watch some of my interview with Dr. Bello and hear more about Mailbox's and my experience, check out my Instagram reel on @webbchatts!

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Chattanooga Family Villa: A Spacious, Secluded Stay for Groups Near the City and the Mountains

If you're planning a group getaway to the Chattanooga area and need a space that comfortably fits everyone — without compromising on style or location — the Chattanooga Family Villa deserves a top spot on your list. Tucked in North Georgia, just 15 miles from downtown Chattanooga and Cloudland Canyon State Park, this newly built vacation rental is designed with large groups in mind.

Whether it's a bachelorette/bachelor weekend, family reunion, friends’ trip, or even a corporate retreat, this private lodge-style home blends convenience with the peacefulness of the mountains. And thanks to thoughtful amenities like a hot tub, game room, and oversized gathering areas, it's more than just a place to sleep — it's a place to stay in and truly enjoy.

The Experience

Driving up to the Chattanooga Family Villa feels like arriving at a private mountainside lodge. The home sits on a secluded wooded lot, creating an instant sense of calm. Inside, the villa is spacious, modern, and filled with natural light. With room for up to 23 guests, the house has seven bedrooms and five bathrooms, offering a mix of king suites, queen setups, and bunk bed nooks that are great for kids or group sharing.

The main floor features a gourmet-style kitchen stocked for cooking meals at home — a big plus for longer group stays. A large dining space and cozy living room give everyone room to eat and hang out together. From the back porch, you'll find a private hot tub under the stars and nature views in every direction.

Upstairs and downstairs are bonus hangout spots, including a separate den and a game area — perfect if you’ve got a wide age range or just want to spread out. The master bedroom on the main floor has its own shower and in-room Jacuzzi tub, which feels like a mini spa moment built right in.

What to Know Before You Go

Location: The Chattanooga Family Villa is located in Rising Fawn, Georgia — about 25 minutes from downtown Chattanooga, 20 minutes from Cloudland Canyon State Park, and an easy drive to Lookout Mountain attractions. It's secluded, but not isolated.

Booking: You can reserve directly via the iTrip Vacations Chattanooga site or through Airbnb and VRBO listings curated by @chattfamilyvilla. Book early for peak seasons like fall and summer.

Parking: Plenty of on-site parking is available, which is especially helpful for big groups arriving in multiple cars.

Pricing: Rates vary by season and group size.

Check-in/out: Check-in is typically mid-afternoon, with check-out in the morning. Exact times are shared upon booking confirmation.

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- Cloudland Canyon State Park is only 15 miles away — if you’ve never been, it’s one of North Georgia’s most stunning parks with waterfall hikes, overlooks, and even cave tours. Plan a half day to explore, especially in fall.
- For meals out, check out Lookout Mountain Pizza Company or drive into Chattanooga for casual group-friendly spots like Community Pie or Basecamp Bar & Restaurant.
- Celebrating something? The villa allows decorations and pre-approved small events with notice. Contact @chattfamilyvilla for more info
- Plan ahead with groceries — while the villa is fully equipped for cooking, the closest large grocery stores are in Trenton, GA or Chattanooga proper.

Final Thoughts

The Chattanooga Family Villa hits a sweet spot: far enough from the city to feel like a retreat, but close enough to make day trips easy and accessible. With its space, comfort, and thoughtful layout, it’s ideal for big families, friend groups, or even couples' getaways that need lots of room and privacy. Plus, the surrounding nature puts you right between two of the region’s best highlights — Chattanooga’s unbeatable charm and the outdoorsy magic of Cloudland Canyon.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

Breathe Deep and Relax: Inside Chattanooga Salt Cavern in St. Elmo

Tucked right into the base of Lookout Mountain, Chattanooga Salt Cavern offers one of the most calming and restorative experiences in the city — and if you haven’t been yet, it’s well worth a visit. This is Chattanooga’s only salt cave, nestled in St. Elmo, and brings the benefits of halotherapy (dry salt therapy) in a truly peaceful setting. Whether you’re dealing with seasonal allergies, breathing issues, or just need a mental reset, spending time at the Salt Cavern is a quiet way to recharge — and yes, you may even find yourself dozing off in a zero-gravity chair.

The Experience:
Chattanooga Salt Cavern isn’t just visually impressive — it’s an active salt cave, which means it features a halogenerator that disperses microparticles of dry salt into the air. That salt-rich environment may help reduce inflammation, clear sinuses, and support overall respiratory health. You’ll notice it right away: the air is crisp and dry, and the softly glowing walls set the mood for instant calm.

Most visitors spend their 45-minute session reclining in one of the zero-gravity chairs, covered with a cozy blanket. You can meditate, nap, stretch, or simply talk quietly with friends. The environment naturally encourages your body to shift into a parasympathetic state — that’s the deep rest-and-reset mode that’s increasingly hard to come by in daily life.

Community sessions are open to anyone and incredibly peaceful, but if you’re hoping for a more private moment — or want to bring a small group — private sessions are available and easy to book online.

In addition to the regular salt therapy sessions, the Salt Cavern hosts special events like yoga classes inside the cave, sound baths, and even drum circles, blending wellness and community in a really unique space.

What to Know Before You Go:
Location:
Chattanooga Salt Cavern
3924 Tennessee Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37409  
Located in St. Elmo, about 10 minutes from downtown, right near the base of Lookout Mountain.

Hours:
Open Tuesday through Sunday, with appointments available throughout the day. Closed Mondays. (but always check their website before you go!)

Pricing:
Sessions start at $25 for adults, with special pricing for kids, groups, and event offerings. You can book online via their website: https://www.chattanoogasaltcavern.com/

Parking:
Free on-site parking is available when you book a session.

Session Info:
Sessions last 45 minutes. Community sessions are open to the public, while private sessions must be booked in advance. Event sessions (like yoga) are posted on their website and Instagram.

Extra Tips or Bonuses:
- Bring or wear cozy clothes — you’ll be reclining in a cool, quiet cave.
- With Lookout Mountain just around the corner, consider pairing your visit with a ride on the Incline Railway (currently closed as of May 2025, opens in July 2025 after repairs are done!) or a stroll around St. Elmo’s walkable neighborhood.
- Looking for a nearby café? Head to The Tap House for craft beer and lunch bites, or grab a coffee and visit with cats at the Naughty Cat Cafe just down the street.
- Check their event calendar for special experiences like Prenatal Yoga, Chakra Balancing, or seasonal workshops.

Final Thoughts:
Whether you’re exploring new wellness treatments or just craving a calm hour away from your to-do list, Chattanooga Salt Cavern is a peaceful spot to breathe easier — literally and figuratively. It’s a great experience for individuals, couples, or even small groups looking for something low-key but special. A lot of locals swear by it for allergy season relief, while others consider it their go-to reset between busy weeks.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!