Melinda Merck

Melinda D. Merck, D.V.M., is senior director of Veterinary Forensic Sciences for the ASPCA.  

Dr. Merck assists investigators of animal cruelty with crime scene investigation as well as the examination of live and deceased victims. She frequently testifies as a forensic veterinary expert for animal cruelty cases around the country, including cases involving animal hoarding, dog fighting and animal torture. She is part of a team of forensic experts that have launched the Veterinary Forensics Program at University of Florida that develops forensic research and provides education in this new field.

Dr. Merck is Chair of the Board of Directors for the new International Veterinary Forensic Sciences Association. She is the author of the textbook, “Veterinary Forensics: Animal Cruelty Investigation,” by Wiley-Blackwell Publishing and the co-author of the book “Veterinary Forensic Investigation of Animal Cruelty: A Guide for Veterinarians and Law Enforcement.” She frequently provides training for veterinary and law enforcement professionals nationwide on the use of veterinary medical knowledge in the investigation and prosecution of animal cruelty cases.

Dr. Merck lives in Gainesville, FL with an assortment of dogs and cats, many rescued from cruelty cases.