Meet Our Dog Trainers

Michael O’Donnell

Owner

Michael O’Donnell’s passion for dog training began in his early years, training family dogs and continuing through his college years at Radford University. After intensive training at the All-Star Dog Training Dog Training school in Las Vegas under founder Fred Hassen, Michael established All-Star Dog Training Charlotte in 2015. With over 15 years of experience, he has built an impressive dog training career that combines his love for dogs with his background in psychology and sales.

As a certified Canine Caring Angels Therapy Dog Trainer and AKC Evaluator, Michael’s expertise has earned him recognition as one of Cary Magazine’s “Movers and Shakers” under 40.

His special bond with dogs is perhaps best exemplified through his work with his own dog Ripken, who serves as the official Bat Dog for the Durham Bulls and Holly Springs Salamanders baseball games, as well as the kicking tee retriever for N.C. State football games.

Melissa O’Donnell

Owner / Director of Marketing

Melissa moved to Rhode Island with her family as a child, but her North Carolina roots run deep. After graduating from the University of Rhode Island and working in Marketing for the New England Patriots, she followed her heart (and the sunshine) back to North Carolina. There, she met Michael, and they married in 2014.

Melissa’s experience in media, including developing a “Responsible Dog Ownership” PSA campaign with the American Kennel Club, combined perfectly with their shared passion for dogs. This led the couple to establish All-Star Dog Training Dog Charlotte in 2016.

Today, Melissa and Michael live in Raleigh with their two children and three dogs, staying close to their extended family.

Alejandra

General Manager

Born and raised in Puebla, Mexico, Ale developed an early connection with all kinds of animals—from farm animals to family pets—which sparked her interest in animal behavior and communication.

Her journey from Visual Information Designer to professional dog trainer began when her Belgian Malinois, Mara, attended All-Star Dog Training’s Board & Train program in Apex, NC. Her natural ability with animals and positive experience as a client led to an opportunity to join the team as a lead trainer.

After establishing herself as one of All-Star Dog Training Apex’s top performers, Ale took on the role of General Manager at the newest Charlotte location, fulfilling her lifelong dream of working with animals professionally.

When Ale is not training dogs, she’s playing frisbee with Mara, creating digital art, gaming, watching TV with her cat or exploring the open road on her motorcycle.

Meghan

Office Manager

Meghan’s love for animals began at a young age, earning her the unofficial title of “family dog trainer.” Working with their Australian Shepherd/Border Collie Mix, Callie, she mastered everything from basic commands to agility training. However, her confidence was shaken when her rescue Pointer, Griffin, proved to be more than she bargained for during her years at UNC Wilmington. This led to a humbling but amusing moment when she turned to her brother Michael and All-Star Dog Training Charlotte for help, finally admitting that he might be the superior trainer in the family!

After exploring the corporate world, Meghan knew it was time to follow her true passion and join her brother’s thriving business as Office Manager at All-Star Dog Training. With her enthusiasm for the industry and the joy of working alongside family, Meghan is excited to be part of the team’s continued growth and success.