Dr. Mueller grew up in Kankakee, Illinois, and knew from an early age that veterinary medicine was her calling. Her passion for exotic animals began when her pet snake became ill and she struggled to find a veterinarian who could help. That experience inspired her lifelong goal of specializing in exotic animal care.

She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, where she focused her studies on exotic species. To further hone her skills, Dr. Mueller completed externships at renowned clinics across the United States, as well as in Belize and Africa, gaining hands-on experience with a wide range of exotic species. 

Outside of work, Dr. Mueller shares life with her high school sweetheart and their “little zoo” of rescue and rehabilitated animals—including an axolotl, tortoises, lizards, a snake, two cats, and three dogs. When she’s not caring for animals, she enjoys baking, fishing, and playing board games with friends and family. She is also a committed Christian, which shapes her compassionate approach to both animals and people.