Ringside Chat with WCRL Judge Melanie Parrish

Enjoying the "front-row seat"

After taking basic obedience classes and earning a Canine Good Citizen title with her dog, Melanie Parrish tried rally obedience to continue their education and have fun together. The Richmond, Va., resident quickly became hooked on the energy, hospitality and inclusiveness of WCRL (then APDT), and within a few years, she looked to become a judge.  

“I love having a front-row seat watching teams at all stages of their journeys share their relationship and what they’ve learned,” Melanie said. “To me, it’s such an honor sharing the ring with them.” 

Melanie recently returned to judging after taking a break last year to realign and replenish her zest for life. With a renewed spirit, she looks forward to reconnecting with the community as both a judge and competitor, stepping back into the ring with her 5-year-old Doberman, Seger.  

Outside of rally, Melanie is a project manager for a financial consulting firm and a born-again artist.