CANFIELD — Angels for Animals welcomes two new faces to the staff.

Dr. Rocco Mele

Dr. Rocco Mele, who joined the clinical staff in November, after a five-year stint at the VCA Valley Animal Hospital and Emergency Center in Tucson, Arizona. A veterinary practitioner for over 50 years, Mele has been actively involved in all aspects of Veterinary Dental Specialty Services for the past 20 years. Born in Youngstown, Ohio, Mele has been interested in veterinary medicine from an early age. During a visit to a veterinarian with his grandfather, he decided that this would be his life calling.

After attending Youngstown State University for his undergraduate work, Mele moved to Columbus, Ohio where he attended The Ohio State University and graduated with Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine. This being his passion, Mele has devoted many years to advanced veterinary dentistry, which has led to articles and professional publications in both human and veterinary journals. Collaboration with leading researchers, human oral surgeons, and biomaterial engineers, gives Mele opportunity to implement innovative techniques and materials into his oral surgical protocols for cats and dogs.

Mele even had the opportunity to spend 8 weeks teaching his skills in Japan. The program Advanced dentistry / Cutting edge oral maxillofacial surgery and reconstruction allowed him to teach over several different clinics advanced dentistry techniques. Mele has had the opportunity to be in the forefront of the development of new and innovative bone grafting techniques, materials, and dental implantology. Many of Mele’s techniques discussed in a book he co-authored called Dental Implants for Small Animals which covers all aspects of veterinary dental implants.

Dr. Mary Bryant

Dr. Mary Bryant moved here from Tucson, Arizona at the beginning of October 2024. She is an associate veterinarian and recently joined the staff. Mary has followed her mentor, Dr. Rocco Mele, to continue to learn from him and hone her skills in veterinary dentistry. She received her degree in Veterinary Medicine in 2022 from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in St. Kitts-Nevis.

Bryant’s dream was to become a veterinarian since she was a young child. She volunteered and worked at shelters, zoos, and other hospitals since she was in middle school and carried this knowledge with her into each new and exciting adventure. One of the best things she loves about the veterinary field, is the many avenues that are available to explore. She is excited to put her past experience to use, as well as learn from her new fellow co-workers. This opportunity will allow her to live out her dream and create new adventures at Angels for Animals. She’s looking forward to meeting the staff and volunteers at Angels for Animals and the people in our community, and can’t wait to provide the best care for your animal companions.