Log Cabin Kennel Staff
Meet Our Team
Welcome to the Our Team page where you can meet the Log Cabin Kennel staff. We like to say that this is where passion for pets meets professionalism! Our dedicated team is a diverse group of animal lovers, each bringing their unique skills and experiences to ensure your furry friends receive the highest level of care. From our experienced trainers to our compassionate caretakers, we all share a common goal: to create a safe, loving, and enriching environment for every pet that walks through our doors. Together, we embody the spirit of community and commitment, ensuring that your pets feel right at home while you’re away. Get to know the wonderful individuals who make Log Cabin Kennel a true haven for your beloved companions!
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meet the Log cabin kennel staff
Philip
Meet Philip, the heart and soul of Log Cabin Kennel.
Philip’s journey into the world of dog training and care began at a young age on a family hunting lodge in South Georgia. Here, he honed his skills in breeding, raising, and training bird hunting dogs, even professionally training his first dog at the tender age of 9, which went on to claim a national field trial title.
At 18, Philip embarked on a new adventure, joining the US Army and serving as a parachute rigger with the esteemed 82nd Airborne Division. In 2006, he found love and companionship in Rebekah, and together, they ventured to Franklin County, NC in 2009.
In 2011, Philip brought his wealth of experience and passion for dogs to Log Cabin Kennel, becoming an invaluable member of our team. His dedication and expertise led him to establish Log Cabin Kennel’s training program in 2016, further cementing his commitment to the well-being and development of our furry friends.
Philip’s aspirations extend beyond the present, as he dreams of one day owning the kennel, ensuring that our tradition of treating our clients’ pets like our own endures far into the future.
Philip’s unwavering dedication and love for dogs make Log Cabin Kennel not just a place for pets, but a home away from home.
meet the Log cabin kennel staff
Jason
Meet Jason, a compassionate soul behind the scenes at Log Cabin Kennel.
Hailing from Pennsylvania and having lived in various states, including Virginia, Florida, New Mexico, and now calling North Carolina home, Jason brings a wealth of diverse experiences to our kennel. After a decade as a federal contractor, Jason made a remarkable transition, following his passion for dogs, and has been an integral part of Log Cabin Kennel for close to 8 years.
Jason’s love for dogs knows no bounds, but it’s the Blue Heelers that hold a special place in his heart. His fondness for this breed traces back to his cherished companion from years past, igniting his deep affection for them. His current dog, Maverick, found his way into Jason’s heart and home 10.5 years ago at the Franklin County shelter, and their bond has only grown stronger with time, with Maverick continuing to bring joy and laughter to Jason’s life.
With a lifelong history of canine companionship, Jason’s passion for dogs is evident in his 8 years of professional experience at Log Cabin Kennel. His time here has not only enriched his knowledge of dog training and psychology but also reinforced his belief that life is incomplete without the presence of these loyal friends.
Beyond his devotion to dogs, Jason finds solace in music and the guitar, having played for nearly 40 years. His altruistic nature extends to supporting local rescues, offering his expertise to Philip in evaluating dogs and providing them with the socialization and care they need, knowing that they will one day find their forever homes.
Jason’s dedication to the well-being of dogs makes Log Cabin Kennel not just a place for pets but a haven filled with love and compassion.


meet the Log cabin kennel staff
Kaitlyn
Meet Kaitlyn!
Kaitlyn hails from the charming town of Danbury, Connecticut, but has since made North Carolina her home.
She brings a wealth of experience to our team, having joined our team in 2024. Her passion for dogs is evident, with a special fondness for golden retrievers and labs.
Outside of work, Kaitlyn enjoys unwinding by indulging in her favorite movies and TV shows, as well as immersing herself in a good book. She is an alumna of Heritage High School, where she laid the foundation for her academic journey, culminating in her graduation from UNC Charlotte in 2020.
As a fervent animal lover, Kaitlyn’s life has been graced by the presence of various furry companions. She has cherished the company of a Rottweiler named Reva, a golden retriever named Ben, and currently, she shares her life with a delightful Great Pyrenees named Maggie. Not to be forgotten, Kaitlyn also shares her home with two feline friends, Dash and Tux.
Kaitlyn’s love for animals is not just a job, it’s a way of life, and her dedication shines through in everything she does at Log Cabin Kennel.
Our Founders
Paula
Paula Cates is a driven and accomplished individual who has excelled in various fields throughout her life. She began her journey by obtaining a degree from Arkansas State University in 1982. Following her graduation, Paula bravely served in the U.S. Army from 1982 to 1992, where she achieved the rank of Captain and received an honorable discharge. During her time in the military, Paula played an active role in Operation Desert Storm, showcasing her bravery and dedication.
After her service in the army, Paula transitioned into the corporate world and joined United Parcel Service (UPS) in 1992. She dedicated eight years of her life to the organization, contributing her skills and determination to its success. Unfortunately, Paula’s career at UPS was cut short due to a knee injury, forcing her into retirement in July 2000.
However, Paula’s determination and passion for dogs led her to embark on a new adventure. She purchased Log Cabin Kennel and transformed her love for dogs into a thriving business. Since taking over the kennel, Paula has implemented significant changes, including expanding the facilities with a small dog building, introducing training services, and even installing turf in the play yards. While Paula may now work behind the scenes, her presence and guidance are still strongly felt.
Paula takes charge of directing operations, utilizing her leadership skills and experience. Her teamwork and dedication have allowed Log Cabin Kennel to flourish and create a positive environment for both the dogs and their owners.


Allison
Allison Asher is a compassionate and accomplished individual who has dedicated her career to the healthcare industry. She pursued her education at St. Francis University, where she obtained a degree in 1991. With her strong academic foundation, Allison embarked on a career in healthcare sales, which she has pursued with unwavering commitment since 1993.
Allison’s professional journey has been focused on healthcare, but her love for animals, particularly dogs, has always been a significant part of her life. This passion led her to a new chapter in her life in 2000.
Allison took the courageous step of purchasing Log Cabin Kennel, where she has since overseen numerous transformative changes. Under her leadership, Log Cabin Kennel has seen remarkable growth and development. She has successfully managed the day-to-day business operations, ensuring the smooth running of the kennel and providing exceptional care for the dogs.
Allison’s dedication to providing a nurturing and safe environment for the animals has been crucial to the kennel’s success. After ten years of running the kennel 24/7/365, Allison made the decision to relocate to Kerr Lake, allowing her to continue her involvement in the kennel while enjoying a well-deserved change of scenery.
Allison’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of dogs, combined with her business acumen, has made her an integral part of Log Cabin Kennel’s success. Her love for animals and dedication to providing exceptional care has solidified the kennel’s reputation as a haven for dogs and a trusted resource for their owners.