Jorge Melara is owner of Divine K-9, Inc., he has trained dogs for over 20 years. In 2004, Jorge filmed a pilot called “Mutt Makeover.” He was a part of a team of people, as the trainer,that helped shelter dogs find homes and behaviorally challenged dogs stay in their homes. Jorge and his dog, CJ, won Most Creative Pet Trick and Best in Show at the first annual Great American Mutt Show in April of 2001. Moreover, they’ve been featured in various newspaper and magazine publications and appeared on Good Morning America, Fox & Friends, Eyewitness News Sunday Morning, and CNN. Jorge has written for various publications covering topics on dog training and behavior. He also co-owns and operates a canine socialization service in Madison called Wanna Go Outside. This service provides enrichment and training for dogs in a group setting. While running Divine K-9, Inc., Jorge was also employed as a pet behavior counselor with the ASPCA Animal Behavior Center for close to two years. In addition to teaching classes, he evaluated, trained, and rehabilitated shelter dogs surrendered by the public as well as those seized by Humane Law Enforcement, as seen on the Animal Planet reality television show Animal Precinct. Jorge also consulted with prospective adopters, trained staff and volunteers and conducted behavior consultations. He continues to volunteer his time and skill to not-for-profit organizations and other rescue groups.
