MEMBER

ABKA
American Boarding Kennels Association

Meet The Owner - Philip Martin

An avid animal enthusiast since childhood, Powderhouse Pet Resort owner, Philip Martin, certainly knows how to pamper a pet! He has created a resort that blends loving care with luxury worthy of a “5 Paw Resort” status.

Powderhouse Pet Resort boasts a caring staff, some of whom have been with Powderhouse for 18 or more years.

The opportunity to purchase what was formerly known as Powderhouse Kennel came at the perfect time. In previous years, Philip owned and operated the highly successful, Home Place Bed and Biscuit, which he sold in order to relocate to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. There he dedicated his time to raising and showing Dobermans.

Philip was able to raise and train some phenomenal Dobermans while in Ft. Lauderdale. One of Martin's top winning Dobermans, CH Phillmar X-Static took multiple Best In Show awards; X-Static is one of only two in the history of the breed to be in the top 20 conformation AND Obedience in the same year (2007).

Additionally, Philip has had ten top 20 awards in the past seven years: 2003, 2004, two in 2005, 2006, two in 2007, 2009 (three top 20 finalists). As a special personal highlight, Philip received his AKC Judging License, a true thrill for this animal lover! He judged the 2007 Argentinian Doberman Nationals with the largest entry to date. Philip was priviledge to judge the NSW Specialty Show in Sydney, Australia in April, 2009 with an entry of 110 (also the largest for that show to date).

However, Philip was ready to re-enter the pet care industry. Philip was delighted to find that friend and original owner, Kandy Boatwright, was in the market to sell her reputable kennel. It was a great fit for both Kandy and Phillip. Kandy did not have to “retire” with the sale. She is happily grooming Powderhouse pets part-time and Philip has been able to realize his vision of the luxurious pet resort.

The people of Powderhouse are what truly make our resort extraordinary. They are all fantastic, loving, caring individuals who really enjoy spending their days with our four-legged friends.

Philip is ecstatic to have such reliable individuals staffing the Pet Resort. Kandy, began this venture over twenty years ago with coworkers Sha Tice, Donna Toole and Donnette Baldwin. These ladies have been there since the beginning and are fabulous examples of the friendly, caring, compassionate, detail-oriented people who staff Powderhouse.

Consistency is a huge part of the comfort. Our clients are welcomed by name; and many have been coming to Powderhouse Pet Resort since1986. Pets and their owners alike appreciate the helpful and loving atmosphere that surrounds them when they enter our resort.

The incredible staff at Powderhouse Pet Resort have enabled Philip to continue pursuit of his passion, working with Dobermans. Philip's love of animals is what inspires him to raise and show some of the country's most highly recognized and award winning Dobermans. He continues to be a force in the world of championship dog breeding. Several of his show dogs have obtained and maintained national championship recognition for several years running. He travels around the country competing in select dog shows. His website, www.philmardobermans.com , can give you insight into this highly competitive world and show you the achievement this one man has made in the field.

Philip and the entire staff of Powderhouse Pet Resort invite you to stop by to tour the facility and take a peek at our grooming salon or the vast array of amenities we offer.

Founder - Kandy Boatwright

My Mother taught me the art of Dog Grooming, Kandy says with a remembering smile. When my sister and I were little we were put to work washing the dogs as a way for my mother to keep an eye on us kids.

Fast Forward to 1986, Kandy with the help and support of her husband John, relocated the Kennel from downtown Aiken, South Carolina to its present location on Powderhouse Road. Designed with years of practical experience in pet boarding and grooming, Powderhouse Kennel opened for business.

Surprisingly much of the staff that opening day in 1986 is still caring for and grooming Aiken's Pets over 20 years later. The staff like Powderhouse's reputation is reliable, solid and still going strong.
Kandy has found a kindred spirit in Phillip Martin, his drive for success coupled with his love of animals made the transition easy for her. An added bonus for both

Phillip and the clientele is that she stayed on at the newly named "resort" in the role of part time Groomer. I have come full circle in this business and I could not be happier with the way everything turned out.

Front Desk Manager/Receptionist - Brittanie Dabbs

Brittanie Dabbs worked in the Vet field as a Vet tech for seven years.  She has always had a passion for animals.  Through high school and college, Brittanie volunteered at the ASPCA for four years.  Brittanie was born and raised in North Augusta, SC. Brittanie has been at Powderhouse Pet Resort for two years.

Brittanie resides with her roommate in Bath, SC with five dogs (Abby, Annabell, Snuggles, Scooter, and Duke).  Brittanie will greet you upon arrival, and will be sure to assist in all your pet needs. She enjoys seeing her regular clients, and loves getting to meet new ones.

Receptionist/Kennel Staff- Brittainie Dabbs