Our Hilliard Team

Hello! We are Kevin and Lori Thelen, the owners of Camp Bow Wow Hilliard since 2009 and Camp Bow Wow Grandview Heights since 2017. When we set out to open Camp Bow Wow in Columbus, OH, we had a dream—to create a place where dogs could thrive, be well cared for, and truly live their best lives. We fell in love with Camp Bow Wow’s philosophy: “Where a Dog Can Be a Dog.”

Since opening our first Camp in 2009, we’ve been incredibly blessed to serve the Columbus community, providing a safe and happy place for dogs while giving their families peace of mind. We know you have many choices for dog care, and we are deeply grateful for the trust you place in us. Our commitment remains stronger than ever—to provide exceptional service while prioritizing Family, Trust, and Safety in everything we do.

At the heart of everything we do is a simple goal: To make the world a better place for everyone—people and their pets!

About Kevin: I’m a retired automotive engineer with a passion for creating meaningful experiences. Throughout my career, I had the privilege of designing and developing innovative automotive products—ones I still take pride in seeing on the road today. In retirement, my focus has shifted toward making a lasting impact in the pet care industry. Not only do I support Camp Bow Wow here in Columbus, but I also contribute at a national level through franchise advisory roles and corporate initiatives.

Beyond Camp, I am honored to lead Rides4Refugees, a nonprofit dedicated to helping refugees rebuild their lives through reliable transportation. Each year, we assist over 20 individuals, providing them with the means to get to work, shop for groceries, & connect with their new communities. What makes our program special is that it’s a true partnership—participants contribute to their own success, & many go on to secure better jobs & even give back to others in need. Seeing their joy & newfound independence is truly inspiring.

About Lori: I grew up with a love for dogs from a young age, inspired by my dad raising German Shorthair Pointers. Those early years sparked a lifelong dream of owning a farm filled with dogs of all sizes. As my children grew, I found my way back to sharing my life with dogs by fostering for several Central Ohio rescues. Giving back & helping dogs in need has been incredibly fulfilling. When my kids left for college, I embraced the opportunity to create a place where dogs of all breeds & sizes could come together. The early years were filled with hard work & dedication, building Camp Bow Wow & assembling a passionate team.

Today, as my grandkids grow, I cherish spending time helping with their care & making special memories with them. When I’m not with my grandkids or dogs, you can find me enjoying time with friends, traveling, & scrapbooking.

Hello Campers! My name is Adam, and I am the Manager here at Camp Bow Wow® Hilliard. My Camp journey all started in 2009 when I was presented the opportunity to join my parents in opening their first locally owned Camp Bow Wow® franchise right here in Hilliard! Working with family and dogs? Sign me up! I have been managing our Hilliard Camp since day 1 and have grown with the pack to what it is today, and can I just say, “Wow!” It’s an incredible feeling welcoming so many wonderful pups and their parents into our family and caring for each Camper as if they are my own. Offering a safe and fun environment for pet parents to bring their dogs and trust they will be taken care of just like family is why I love what I do. It’s been a great 15 years so far and I look forward to many more!

When I am not at Camp, I enjoy spending time with my wife of 16 years, coaching my oldest daughters travel softball team, watching my youngest daughter play club volleyball and hanging out with our two Shih Tzus, Henry and Watson. And if you’ve known me for long enough, you’ll know I am an avid Michigan football fan…. Go Blue!

I look forward to meeting you and your Camper and welcoming you into our pack!

Hi there Campers! My name is Lisa and the cute Golden Retriever next to me is my paw-tner in fun, Andy. I am the Barketing Director and Camp Scout for Camp Bow Wow® Hilliard and Camp Bow Wow® Grandview Heights. I started working at our Hilliard Camp in 2012 as a counselor throughout college, continually growing with our company into management positions and eventually transitioning my career to all things Marketing in 2018. From meeting new customers to the relationships I’ve formed with our dogs and their pawrents over the years, there is no greater reward to me than seeing my Camp family blossom into what it is today!

In my free time, I enjoy being outdoors, hiking, traveling and spending time with my friends. One of my favorite destinations to date would have to be Colorado. There is so much to explore, from Rocky Mountain National Park to various natural hot springs, and you can’t forget about the skiing out there - incredible!

And I can’t forget about Andy! Andy is my 8-year-old Golden Retriever who doesn’t know a bad day. This girl is always smiling and loves meeting new people. Her favorite things are her Cub toy, going to work with mom, and swimming.

If you ever see us around Camp, or out-and-about at a park or community event, please say hi! We love seeing familiar faces and hearing about your experience at Camp!

Hi Campers, I’m Britt! I’ve been part of the Camp Bow Wow Hilliard pack since August 2020 as a Shift Lead and Enrichment Lead. One of my favorite parts about working with dogs is getting to know each pup’s unique personality and building special bonds with them and their parents. It is so rewarding being able to have a second family with all these special pups!

At home, I have three amazing dogs: Ruby, my 6-year-old German Shepherd, and Major and Sarge, my two Pitty mixes, who are 6 and 1-year-old. They sure keep life entertaining and full of love! If I could be any dog breed, I’d be a Pitbull. At first, I might be misunderstood, but once you get to know me, you’ll see my goofy, outgoing side! Like a Pittie, I’m loyal, sincere, and adaptable, and I take a little time to warm up—but once I do, I’m all in.

Outside of work, I’m passionate about volunteering with RESCUEDohio - a local dog rescue that we partner with here at Camp-, crafting, and cheering on the Cincinnati Bengals (Who Dey!). I also love spending time with my boyfriend and our pups, making the most of every moment together!

Hi there, I’m Jo! I’m at Shift Lead here at Camp Bow Wow Hilliard and have been part of the pack since July 2021. One of my favorite things about working with dogs is providing them with a safe, fun environment where they can build confidence, make new friends, and just be themselves. Seeing a nervous pup come out of their shell or a playful dog find their perfect playmate makes every moment worth it!

At home, I have a full house of animal companions. My 1.5-year-old Rough Collie, Monty, and my 6-year-old Beagle, Bailey, are my adventure buddies, always eager to run, play, and learn new tricks together. I also have two guinea pigs, Espresso and Frappe, who add a little extra fun to the mix! If I had to pick a dog breed that best represents me, I’d say I’m a Collie—loyal, friendly, and clever, but with a goofy and stubborn streak.

When I’m not at Camp, you’ll probably find me outdoors camping, kayaking, or hiking. My dogs love adventuring in all kinds of weather, so we’re always out exploring together!

Hi Campers, I’m Kate! I’m a Shift Lead at Camp Bow Wow Hilliard, where I’ve been part of the pack for six years. Over the years, I’ve taken on additional roles, including Grooming in late 2021 and Hiring Manager in 2022. While every part of working with dogs is a favorite of mine, the most fulfilling aspect is being their second family—their home away from home. Watching them grow, develop their personalities, and form friendships is truly special. Whether they’re young and full of energy or growing older and wiser, the bond we share is irreplaceable. There’s something incredibly healing about being loved by a dog—no matter how rough a day may be, they are always excited, grateful, and ready to bring joy.

If I were a dog, I’d be a Greyhound. I admire their resilience, patience, and quiet yet passionate nature. They may be a little high maintenance, but their love and loyalty are unmatched. Speaking of loyalty, my own pup, Odin Buddy, is my world. He’s a five-year-old Australian Shepherd with a unique talent—he sings along to Animal Crossing songs, select That ‘70s Show episodes, and his personal favorite, Hey Ya by OutKast!

Outside of Camp, I enjoy learning new languages, taking trips, going to amusement parks, and attending concerts. I also love training with Odin, sewing, four-wheeling with my family, and unwinding with friends—whether it’s playing video games or having a good movie marathon.

Hello Campers, I’m Randi! I’ve been a Shift Lead at Camp Bow Wow Hilliard for almost four years. One of the best parts of my job is getting to meet all the new dogs that come to Camp, as well as getting to know their owners. I treat every pup like they’re my own, and it’s such a joy watching them grow and thrive in our care.

At home, I have four wonderful pups of my own—Izzy, my 13-year-old Lab mix; Shadow, my 10-year-old Terrier mix; Rufus, my 4-year-old Chocolate Lab; and Princess, my 3-year-old Pittie. If I could be any dog breed, I’d definitely be a Chocolate Lab—they’re my favorite! Their sweet faces and playful personalities melt my heart. When I’m not at Camp, I love spending time outdoors and building Legos with my kids.