Meet Our Dog Trainers

Michael O’Donnell

Owner / General Manager

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 school in Las Vegas under founder Fred Hassen, Michael established All-Star Dog Training Apex 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 Apex in 2016.

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

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 Apex 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.