Kennebunk, ME
Melissa is a certified professional dog trainer based in southern Maine. She is the host of 'BewilderBeasts', an all-ages show focused on the intersection of animals and humanity.
Additionally, Melissa is the author of 'Considerations for the City Dog', an urban dog owner's handbook.
Melissa's journey into dog training began in rural Maine, where she grew up in what she affectionately calls 'an accidental dog-sledding family.'
She currently serves as the co-Training Director and Vice President of New England Dog Training Club, the oldest AKC obedience club in the country, located in densely populated Cambridge, MA.
With 20 years of professional dog training and behavior consultation experience, Melissa has primarily worked in urban and densely populated suburban environments.
Her focus has been on understanding the environmental impact on individual dogs' well-being, particularly in cities where many dogs become overwhelmed and struggle to cope.
She aims to shift the focus from 'save them all' to appropriate placement, and she explores how canine sports techniques can assist in complex behavior plans.
Melissa has shared her expertise at various events and institutions, including the Massachusetts Vet Tech Association, Massachusetts Animal Coalition, Tufts University, M.I.T., The Broad Institute, Raising Canine, the National Federation of Humane Societies, and the Pet Professional Guild.
She has also presented on other topics at several schools, the MSPCA, The Boston Science Museum, and more.
Melissa serves as a faculty advisor for VSA - the Victoria Stilwell Training Academy.
Currently, she teaches disc dog classes, scent work, basic manners, tricks classes, adolescent classes, puppies, and consults on challenging behavior cases in person throughout Southern Maine, and online across the country when possible.
Additionally, Melissa is working on her second book, which addresses the lesser-known aspects of working professionally with animals for individuals considering a career in the pet industry.
We've got the answers for your questions
Seriously, if you have any questions about training your dog, we have the answers.
We have created a directory of licensed dog trainers specializing in positive reinforcement methods. These trainers are not affiliated with Dogo, and all information is gathered from publicly available sources. Each profile provides a brief overview of the trainer's experience and expertise.
Start by evaluating your dog's needs and identifying your training objectives. Each trainer's profile provides insights into their areas of expertise. Match these with your dog's character and your goals to find the ideal fit.
All trainers listed here are certified professionals with extensive knowledge of positive reinforcement techniques.
Positive reinforcement centers on rewarding preferred behaviors, ensuring a pleasant learning journey for your dog. This humane approach is scientifically proven to be the most effective long-term training method, strengthening the bond between you and your pet. By consistently rewarding good behavior, your dog learns to associate actions with positive outcomes, leading to lasting improvements and a happier companion.
Yes, they are. Our trainers are adept in basic obedience or intricate behavioral challenges. Browse their profiles to identify a trainer who specializes in the particular issues you wish to address.
Simply click on the preferred trainer's profile to access their contact details. From there, you can get in touch to discuss your requirements and set up training appointments.
Group sessions offer a communal setting where your dog learns general obedience alongside other dogs. In contrast, private sessions grant focused attention, making them perfect for targeted behavior modifications or individualized training agendas.
All our trainers are committed to positive reinforcement techniques and steer clear of any harsh or punitive methods. Their primary goal is to make training a joyous journey for you and your dog.
Results depend on factors like your dog's nature, the specific behaviors in question, and your training consistency. While many clients observe improvements in just a few sessions, it's crucial to be patient and persistent.
Reach out to the trainer you're interested in to discuss possibly attending a session. It's a great way to get a feel for their approach and see if it aligns with your expectations.
