MELLISSA MINIFIE
Grand Junction,MI
Summary
Experienced animal care expert with nearly 20 years in handling domestic and wild animals, focusing on behavior, husbandry, and holistic health. Adept at diagnosing and addressing health and behavioral issues promptly. Committed to delivering professional and timely care solutions. Capable of maintaining calm and effective responses in urgent situations.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Timeline
Puppy Care/ Dog Sitter / Trainer
Glenaholm Ridgebacks
03.2019 - 2023
Farm Livestock Manager
Zendik Arts Farm
10.2009 - 10.2015
Doggy Doula/ Puppy Whisperer
Various Breeders
2019 - Current
Handler/ Trainer / Sitter
Massaa Rhodesian Ridgebacks
2017 - 2019
High School Diploma -
WL Seaton Secondary School
Education
High School Diploma -
WL Seaton Secondary School
Vernon, BCWork History
Doggy Doula/ Puppy Whisperer
Various Breeders
USA
2019 - Current
- Provided emotional, physical support throughout the labor and delivery processes and beyond if required.
- Facilitated comprehensive birth plans tailored to each families unique needs, including preliminary health and genetic clearances, supplementation and nutrition, troubleshooting and more.
- Guided families in understanding prenatal pup care, postpartum recovery methods, and advanced puppy rearing techniques.
- Orchestrated communication channels between clients and medical professionals to enhance informed decision-making.
Puppy Care/ Dog Sitter / Trainer
Glenaholm Ridgebacks
03.2019 - 2023
- Supported whelping operations and ensured optimal health care for both puppies and dams during recovery.
- Monitored daily activities of each dog and provided recommendations for enhancements in care, socialization, and treatment strategies.
- Attended client meetings to oversee and support the transition of pups and dogs into their new environments.
- Guided puppy owners in determining the most effective methods to successfully acclimate the dog in specific circumstances.
Farm Livestock Manager
Zendik Arts Farm
10.2009 - 10.2015
- Monitored and adjusted living conditions and care practices for a variety of livestock and pets, ensuring optimal health and enrichment.
- Assessed and addressed animal health concerns by engaging with coworkers and clients during on-site evaluations and relocation activities.
- Achieved high accuracy in health records, vaccination documentation, and breeding logs through diligent management. Enhanced animal care quality by implementing effective identification procedures.
Handler/ Trainer / Sitter
Massaa Rhodesian Ridgebacks
2017 - 2019
- Implemented rigorous hygiene practices for whelping environments, ensuring all toys and recreational spaces remained clean and disease-free.
- Tracked and recorded essential information on health, feeding, elimination, and socialization patterns of young puppies to facilitate informed placement decisions.
- Achieved successful training outcomes for dogs and puppies by aligning programs with owner needs. Empowered owners with skills for humane and effective animal handling in all circumstances.
- Compiled comprehensive profiles detailing individual puppies' traits and personalities to facilitate informed adoption decisions.
Skills
Client-centric approach
Driven professional
Empathic, Intuitive
Detail focused
Resourceful & industrious
Commitment to learning/ education
Adaptable & Flexible
Effective multitasking
Practical, task oriented
Calm crisis management