Mel's Best Friend

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Introduction: Hi! I'm Mel, ABCDT certified. I have been working with animals since 2012 and have been studying dog behavior and dog training since 2018. I focus on science based, positive reinforcement methods that rely on understanding how your dog thinks and learns. I have found that being empathetic and focusing on building a relationship with our dogs is the best way to train, because a happy and emotionally secure dog is willing to participate and learn!

Overview

Current Top Pro

Hired 171 times

Background checked

1 employee

4 years in business

Payment methods

This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, Credit card, PayPal, and Venmo.

Social media

Facebook, Instagram

Top Pro status

Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.

2023

2022

2021

Featured Projects

45 photos

Specialties

Dog training type

,

Reviews

Customers rated this pro highly for responsiveness, work quality, and professionalism.

Exceptional 5.0

53 reviews

5

96%

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Read reviews that mention:

Tiffany R.

Feb 9, 2024

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Hired on Thumbtack

It was such a pleasure working with Mel. My dog is a full grown 100+lbs German Shepherd and is on the stubborn side. He knows he’s big and he knows he has the power to bulldozer his way through a lot of things. Mel was able to gain his trust very quickly right at the meet and greet session. Mel is also patient with both my dog and I. She took time to explain to me why he does the things he does and what course of actions I could choose in each scenario and why. I really appreciated that. And she was very flexible about scheduling/rescheduling training sessions too. All and all, I feel lucky to have found Mel!

Details: 2 - 10 years old • Extra large (70+ lbs) • Private lessons • General obedience training • House training • Crate training • My home, venue, etc.

Dog Training

LaNiya V.

Jan 5, 2024

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Hired on Thumbtack

I recently had the pleasure of using the board and train services provided by Mel, a phenomenal dog trainer I discovered on the Thumbtack website. My 9-month-old husky, Nala, was presenting a myriad of behavioral challenges, from refusing to use the bathroom outside to being a constant nuisance to our smaller dog. Mel's expertise, dedication, and personalized approach not only exceeded my expectations but completely transformed Nala's behavior. From the initial consultation at my home, Mel demonstrated a genuine commitment to understanding Nala's unique needs. She took the time to assess Nala in her own environment and asked for a list of desired outcomes and routines to ensure a seamless transition back into our home. This thoughtful approach immediately set me at ease, knowing that Mel was dedicated to tailoring her services to meet Nala's specific requirements. Leaving Nala for the four-week board and train program was undoubtedly a bittersweet moment, but the positive changes I witnessed during our mid-service visit were nothing short of astonishing. Nala was noticeably calmer and exhibited behaviors I could only dream of before – using the restroom outside was a major triumph! It was clear that Mel’s expertise and methods were making a significant impact on Nala's behavior. Upon Nala's return home, the transformation was nothing short of remarkable. Gone were the days of wall-chewing and constant chaos. Nala now roams the house freely, displaying a newfound sense of calmness and discipline. Notably, she has not had a single accident in the month since her return. The joy of having a well-behaved, loving husky in our home is truly priceless. I cannot express enough gratitude for Mel's exceptional board and train services. Her professionalism, dedication, and genuine love for dogs are evident in the incredible results she achieves. If you're seeking a dog trainer who goes above and beyond, look no further than Mel. I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone in need of board and train services – she is, without a doubt, the best in the business! Thank you, Mel, for transforming our lives and making Nala a joy to have in our home.

Details: 6 - 12 months old • Large (41 - 70 lbs) • Board and train at a facility • I'm flexible • Leash pulling • House training • Biting • Chewing • Destructive behavior • At the pro’s location

Dog Training

Suzanne L.

Mar 28, 2023

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Hired on Thumbtack

Mel has been extremely helpful in training us to train our Mini Bull Terrier. They have thoughtful insights to dog behavior and how dogs think. Mel’s gentle approach is highly recommended!

Details: 2 - 10 years old • Medium (26 - 40 lbs) • Private lessons • General obedience training • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.

Dog Training

Kachi O.

Mar 21, 2023

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Hired on Thumbtack

Mel’s training helped to not only make my pup better behaved, but also helped to learn how to train my pup as well! They’re a great trainer for first time dog owners. My pup took to listening to them very quickly within the first two sessions and became a lot more trainable. Definitely recommend!

Details: 0 - 6 months old • Small (16 - 25 lbs) • Private lessons • Puppy training • House training • Crate training • Leash pulling • My home, venue, etc.

Dog Training

Rebecca C.

Jan 3, 2024

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Hired on Thumbtack

Mel has started to help me with my anxious dog Charlie and her methods were insightful and helpful. I can’t wait to see if Charlie can become less anxiously attached!

Details: 10 years or older • Small (16 - 25 lbs) • Private lessons • General obedience training • Barking • My home, venue, etc.

Dog Training

Credentials

Background Check

Melissa Hunt

FAQs

What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Dog training consultations: $$75 Private Dog Training: $140/ session If you purchase a pack of 7 sessions you save $140 and if you purchase a pack of 14 sessions you save $360. Board and training is 1000 per week
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
The first thing I do with any new customer is set up an initial 30 minute consultation. The consultation gives us a moment to talk about your training goals, set up a training plan, and for you to ask general questions!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I was certified through a larger pet store back in 2018, trained for two years before moving on. In 2021 I became certified through Animal Behavior College.