Melanie's self-explanation- "I am certified in pet First Aid and CPR. I have owned animals my entire life, they are my passion. Actually, I trained one of my dogs to be a therapy dog when I was 15, just because I could. I have worked in an animal shelter so I know how important it is to love an animal by doing what's best for them. I have taken accredited courses on pet nutrition, animal psychology, animal physical therapy, pet grooming, veterinary assisting, pet training and sitting, dog behavior and training, and how to make an animal feel comfortable in a new home. I take these courses by choice because I enjoy learning all there is to know about animals. I am currently attending VCU for a Bachelor's degree in International Studies with a concentration in social justice (which I intend to use to help bring animal rights and protection laws to countries that are lacking in them). I eventually would love to receive a Master's degree in zoology and ethology (the study of animal psychology and behavior)."