Melissa McCue-McGrath, CPDT-KA is a certified professional dog trainer in greater Boston with over 10 years and 800 cases under her belt. She grew up in a dog-sledding family in rural Maine and now sits as the co-Training Director of New England Dog Training Club, the oldest AKC obedience club in the country. She advocates for urban canine sports and science-based training techniques to help dogs cope in the "new normal". Additionally, Melissa writes alongside one of her best friends, Dr. Sip Siperstein, for NPR's Car Talk FIDO Blog.
 
She rather infrequently updates her MuttStuff blog and Muttstuff Facebook Page. As a result of this book, Melissa started #HandsOnFirst, a movement that encourages rescue groups and breeders to stop shipping dogs directly to potential dog owners sight-unseen. #HandsOnFirst explains what responsible rescues, shelters, fosters and reputable breeders actually look like, and educates people how to find a dog that will be best suited to their lifestyle and environment. She and her husband have a daughter named Aislyn. They currently live outside of Boston with their 2 cats, a fish and a snail. The McGraths are actively looking for their next family dog.