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New Guide Dog Mobility Instructor: Melanie Bell

Monday August 12, 2019

Guide Dog Mobility Instructor Melanie Bell kneeling next to a yellow Lab guide dog by her side.

Meet Melanie Bell, who is among GDB’s newest Guide Dog Mobility Instructors. She recently completed the three-year GDB instructor apprenticeship.

Melanie is from Marquette, Michigan, and for the past four years, has lived in Petaluma. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in marketing from Northern Michigan University.

Prior to moving to California, she worked at the Wisconsin Humane Society, Animal Care & Adoption Counseling, as a community outreach coordinator at the Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter, and a business analyst for a hospitality management company.

Moving west to escape the long Michigan winters, she says, “it was time to get back to working with dogs and I was lucky to find GDB shortly after relocating. What I like most about my job is that I get to train dogs, which is something I love, and get to call it work! I have also met many amazing grads and having the opportunity to instruct them as a team, with their guide dogs, is incredibly rewarding!”

Fun fact – Melanie is also a realtor who still holds an active real estate license in Michigan! When she’s not enjoying work, you’ll find her hiking with her six-year-old Australian Shepherd/Golden Retriever mix, Nash, playing volleyball, and traveling. She considers the beach a favorite destination!

Well done Melanie!

Categories: GDB Staff Profile, Guide Dog Training, Just for Fun