Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Melissa McNally

Hagerstown,MD

Summary

Reliable and detail-focused professional with over a decade of experience in animal behavior, client care, and operations management. Skilled in prompt-based task execution, clear written communication, and identifying nuanced patterns across data or behavior. Experienced in using AI tools to create documentation, analyze content, and improve workflows. Self-motivated, tech-savvy, and highly comfortable with independent, remote work. Passionate about clarity, ethics, and consistency in digital systems.

Overview

13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Owner & Operations Manager

Harmonious Handling Dog Training (Self-employeed)
08.2019 - Current
  • Launched and operated a successful behavioral dog training business, managing all day-to-day operations including scheduling, client communication, invoicing, and record keeping
  • Provided individualized training plans based on behavioral evaluations and client goals; worked one-on-one with clients to improve canine behavior through positive reinforcement techniques
  • Wrote educational materials, training summaries, and follow-up resources to support client success
  • Managed all marketing, social media, and website content; created systems for client onboarding and follow-up
  • Delivered consistent, high-quality customer service in both virtual and in-person settings, using clear communication and emotional intelligence
  • Maintained detailed records and responded to sensitive behavioral concerns with compassion, professionalism, and efficiency
  • Regularly collaborated with AI tools to draft business materials, create training documentation, and streamline workflows; highly proficient in prompt-based task management and independent learning with AI systems

Veterinary Technician

Animal Health Clinic of Funkstown
04.2012 - 05.2018
  • Provided direct patient care and client education in a busy veterinary clinic setting, working closely with veterinarians on exams, procedures, and preventative wellness
  • Created and ran a successful in-clinic weight loss program for pets, providing tailored plans and ongoing coaching for clients
  • Delivered one-on-one client support for preventative care, including vaccine schedules, nutrition, parasite prevention, and early illness detection
  • Performed lab work including urinalysis, blood draws, ear cytology, fecals, and basic diagnostics
  • Cared for hospitalized and sick animals, administering medications, fluids, and IV treatments with attention to detail and empathy
  • Assisted in surgical prep and post-op monitoring, ensuring patient safety and comfort
  • Maintained accurate records and upheld strict sanitation and medication protocols

Education

Maryland State Board of Education
Hagerstown
03-2020

Skills

  • Client Communication (Email, Phone, Virtual)
  • Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Calendar)
  • Schedule & Calendar Management
  • Task Prioritization & Workflow Organization
  • Document Creation & Editing
  • Invoicing, Record-Keeping & Payment Tracking
  • Conflict De-escalation & Compassionate Support
  • Strong Written & Verbal Communication
  • Attention to Detail & Follow-Through
  • Comfortable with Remote Tools (Zoom, Trello, Slack)
  • Tech-Savvy & Eager to Learn New Systems

Accomplishments

  • Successfully launched and ran a behavioral dog training business for 5 years, overseeing all operations, client care, and education materials
  • Created and implemented a pet weight-loss program at a veterinary clinic, improving client compliance and patient health outcomes
  • Wrote all client-facing materials for Harmonious Handling Dog Training, including training reports, behavior plans, and educational content
  • Handled emotionally sensitive client interactions in both veterinary and training settings, building long-term trust and loyalty
  • Regularly collaborated with AI tools to develop internal systems, streamline workflows, and produce business content
  • Mentored new veterinary support staff and helped establish smoother clinic workflows during peak volume
  • Managed all marketing, social media, and outreach efforts for a small business, driving consistent client intake without paid advertising
  • Set up and maintained onboarding and follow-up systems that helped clients stay organized, supported, and engaged during their dog’s training journey

Certification

CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed)
Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) — 2020
Nationally recognized certification earned through hands-on experience, continuing education, and passing a comprehensive exam in learning theory and canine behavior.

Fear Free Certified Professional
Fear Free Pets — 2021
Trained in reducing fear, anxiety, and stress in animals during handling and care through behavior science and compassionate techniques.

AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Evaluator
American Kennel Club — 2024
Authorized evaluator for the AKC CGC program, recognizing well-mannered dogs and responsible owners through standardized behavior testing.

Timeline

Owner & Operations Manager

Harmonious Handling Dog Training (Self-employeed)
08.2019 - Current

Veterinary Technician

Animal Health Clinic of Funkstown
04.2012 - 05.2018

Maryland State Board of Education

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