Staff

Barton Dofflemyer (Owner)

Barton was basically born into the kennel business.  His parents have owned and operated The Dogg House's sister location, Wakefield Kennel, since 1974, and he has spent most of his life caring for pets at their establishments.  Barton is a Graduate of Virginia Tech and is married, and the father of four wonderful children, who may someday follow in the “family business.” Barton enjoys golf and gardening, and loves working around the house. He loves to spend time with his mini Aussie, Daisy!  

Ray Herrlein (Manager)

Ray has grown up in the pet care industry, and has over two decades of experience. Ray’s love for animals is evident to everyone that has ever seen him at work. When Ray’s not working he enjoys hiking, biking, riding ATV’s and music!

Dawn Fitzgerald (Assistant Manager)

Dawn joined The Dogg House family in the spring of 2008. Her love for animals emerged at a very young age, always insisting on caring for her childhood pets. That love for animals led her to the Charlottesville SPCA where she cared primarily for the cats, then moving onto the vet clinic at the shelter. Her energetic and caring spirit, benefit both the pets and staff alike. When Dawn isn’t at work she enjoys cooking, hiking, wine tasting and karaoke! Dawn also has a huge sweet tooth for candy!

Jennifer Courtner (Trainer)

Jennifer, owner of Diligent Dogs, has been working professionally with dogs since 2006 when she began walking dogs at a local veterinary hospital and working part time at a grooming salon. She apprenticed under renowned service dog trainer Leslie Horton and worked under her at Inova Fairfax Hospital’s Animal Assisted Care program in Northern Virginia. After graduating from George Mason University with a degree in Psychology, Jennifer attended the National K-9 School for Dog Trainers in Columbus, OH and became a certified professional trainer. In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her two dogs, a boxer named Kyla, and a labrador retriever named Loki.

Linda Trimble (Groomer)

Linda has been with The Dogg House since its inception in 1998, and in the pet care industry since 1981. Linda brings a special touch to her canine clients which always have them leave with their tails wagging! Outside of work, Linda enjoys spending time with family and friends, wine tastings and flower gardening. She is also an avid birdwatcher! Linda shares her home with her “wash and go” dogs, Rita and Cuervo, and her two cats, Iris and Lily.

Brooke Young (Groomer)

Brooke joined The Dogg House family in 2004 and has worked in the pet care industry for over 15 years. Brooke takes great pride in her grooming work and adds her own sense of style to every dog she handles! When Brooke’s not busy grooming, you may find her lounging by the pool, visiting with friends and family or cheering on her favorite football team, the Dallas Cowboys! Nothing makes Brooke happier than spending time with her two beautiful children. Brooke is also a strong advocate for autism awareness.

Amy Herrlein (Groomer)

Amy started working for the Dofflemyer family in 1987 at their sister facility, Wakefield Kennel, and began grooming shortly thereafter in 1988. Amy loves working with each and every pet she encounters. Amy feels she was meant to work in the pet care industry, which is evident in her long career with us! Amy enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren, and watching her nephews play football.