Melissa started at Abell in 2002 in the kennel department. Since then, she has ventured through the different areas of the hospital as a veterinary technician, assisting in surgeries, to her current position. In 2012, Melissa earned her Bachelor of Science degree in health administration with a concentration in long-term care. Although she loves working with animals and being a part of the human-animal bond, she may someday travel to the human side as she has developed a passion for working with the elderly. Melissa lives with 2 dogs, Radar (Shepherd Mix) and Foxie (Pomeranian), and one cat, Teddy (domestic shorthair). When she is not spending her time at work or with her pets, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends and trying out different restaurants because of her great love for food [citation].