Meet Our Team
Karen Oler
Founder, Owner, and Lead TrainerThurman’s Place was born from a lifelong passion for dogs and a simple goal: create a calm, happy, and fulfilling home-away-from-home for pets so owners can travel or attend obligations worry-free. My husband and I live on the 35-acre property where our business grew from a dream into the trusted facility it is today. We’re proud of the dedicated team we’ve chosen to care for and train every guest at Thurman’s Place. At home we enjoy family life with five children and six grandchildren, and we share our farm with seven dogs (many gifted to me), two mini cows, three goats, guineafowl, and chickens. We love farm life and also enjoy traveling together.
Lucas, LVMT
I joined Thurman's Place in April 2026 after a 20-year career in veterinary medicine. As a licensed technician, I’ve helped animals in neurology, ophthalmology, internal medicine, emergency, and critical care. I'm an avid reader, a published author, and I enjoy coding on various projects. I'm also a professional Scrabble player, having represented the U.S. at the 2016 World Championship. I live with my wife, Meagan, and our two cats, Emmy Jade and Olive Grace. You can learn more about my writing here.
Director
Roxie
Office ManagerHello my name is Roxana but I’m known as Roxie. I’m the office manager at Thurman’s Place. I have never worked somewhere that felt like home until here. I love my life and the fact I get to work with animals, especially dogs. So, to me, it’s not work, it’s a privilege. I have covered almost all positions here, however the office suits me best. When I’m not enjoying this part of my life, I’m raising four kiddos. I’m excited to grow with this company and watch the dogs’ lives transform as much as mine has since I started working here.
Sam R.
Assistant TrainerHi, I’m Sam! I’m an Assistant Trainer at Thurman’s Place, and I’ve been working with dogs in a variety of capacities for the past 5 years. Before entering the dog industry, I worked in food service, where I developed a strong work ethic and passion for customer care that I still carry with me today. I moved to Middle Tennessee from Orange County, California in 2021, and have since graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. When I’m not at Thurman’s Place, I love spending time with my husband and our three fur babies (1 not pictured). I’m passionate about creating a safe, structured, and loving environment for every dog in our care, and I feel incredibly grateful to work in a field that allows me to combine leadership, learning, and my love for animals every day.
Madalyn
Administrative SupportBio coming soon.
Rachel G.
Training DirectorHi, I’m Rachel! After graduating North State K9 Academy in 2014 as a Certified Master Trainer, I launched into my dream career and have now been training dogs professionally for over ten years. From police dogs to pet dogs to sport dogs, I love it all. Every dog that I work with is a new challenge and opportunity to learn, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work with your pup!
Sarah
Training CoordinatorSarah is the Training Coordinator at Thurman’s Place, where she helps create a positive and successful experience for both dogs and their families.
With a genuine love for animals and a passion for helping people, Sarah works closely with the Thurman’s Place training team and clients to keep communication organized and ensure each dog’s training journey runs smoothly. From coordinating schedules and answering questions to helping families prepare for their dog’s stay and transition home, she is here to help every step of the way.
Her love for animals extends well beyond her work at Thurman’s Place. In her free time, Sarah enjoys life on her small homestead, where she cares for her chickens and her own five-dog pack. Living with and caring for a multi-dog household has given her plenty of firsthand experience with the unique personalities, needs, and dynamics that make every dog different.
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Kennel Technician - Training DeptBio coming soon.
Christina
Assistant TrainerHey my name is Christina Tidwell. I’m a country girl with an old soul who loves being outdoors, especially on the river or riding trails! I also enjoy spending time with my blue heeler, Bluey, and all the other pups at Thurman’s Place!
Savannah
Kennel Technician - Training DeptI’m a proud momma of four boys. In my spare time I take care of my farm, which contains all fur, feathers and reptiles babies. I love all animals. I would own my own zoo if I could. I truly am blessed to have such an amazing job at such a wonderful place doing what I love. ❤️
Shane
Assistant TrainerHey, Shane here! I've had roughly a little over a decade of experience training and caring for dogs. Spent much of my early dog days training German Shepherds and Siberian Huskies, and have a Husky of my own. Thurman's is such a great place to train at, where dogs are thoroughly cared for and loved every day.
Ty
Kennel Technician - Training DeptBio coming soon.
Lydia
Adventure Stay LeaderGrowing up on a farm, I’ve always been surrounded by animals of every kind., which sparked my lifelong passion for dogs and working with them. I earned by Associate’s degree in Agricultural Business and later completed my Bachelor’s degree in Integrated Studies. Outside of work, I love traveling whenever I get the chance and bringing my dog, kai, along for the adventure. At Thurman’s Place, I help run the Adventure Stay program, and truly enjoy getting to know every pup’s personality that comes through the door!
Hi, my name is Madi Lou! A few things about me: I enjoy spending time with my husband and our pup. A couple of my favorite hobbies are riding my motorcycle, outdoor hikes, and creating art! I LOVE DOGS!
Madi
Adventure Stay Leader
Allie
Kennel ManagerMy name is Allie, I have 2 children and 3 dogs of my own that are my world. Working at Thurman's is a dream combination of several of my favorite things: dogs, nature, hiking, foraging and rock collecting. My favorite part of the day is hiking down to the creek with play groups. I love that I get to see so many of our furry guests regularly and really get to know and love each pup and their unique personalities.
Lisa
Kennel TechnicianI have been working with animals for about 15 years. I have 3 dogs and a cat. I’ve been with Thurman’s Place since 2021, and it is the best place ever!
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Kennel TechnicianBio coming soon.
Maria
Kennel TechnicianI have always had a deep love for dogs ever since I was young, which is what led me to becoming a kennel technician. Caring for animals brings me so much joy, and I love being able to provide attention and care to every dog I meet. Along with my passion for animals, I enjoy traveling, spontaneous plans, laughing, and stepping outside of my comfort zone to try new things. I believe that pets are family, and I treat every dog with the same love, patience, and care I would want for my own!
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Kennel TechnicianBio coming soon.
Audrey
Kennel TechnicianMy name is Audrey and I love working with your pups! I’ve had such a strong connection with animals since a young age, and truly believe a 4-legged friend is the best friend to have. I’ve had the pleasure of working with dogs for the past 4+ years, and wouldn’t change a thing. When I’m not working, you’ll either catch me with my cat, Pookie, with family, or out feeding stray kitties I see.
McClain
Kennel TechnicianI’m currently a college student studying to become a teacher. I’ve been working with dogs for about four years and really enjoy getting to know and care for each one. I’ve always had a love for animals, especially dogs, which makes my job something I truly enjoy. Outside of work and school, I’m a big sports fan and enjoy staying active and spending time with friends and family.
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Doggie Groomer
Bio coming soon.
Courtney
Doggie ChaufferHi, I'm Courtney, the Doggie Chauffeur here at Thurman's Place! I've been part of the team for about three years, and I can honestly say I have the best job. I've worked with dogs for about five years, and I love getting to know each of our furry guests and making sure they have a safe and enjoyable ride.
When I'm not at Thurman's Place, I'm in my book nook with a good book. I'm a proud mom to two amazing kids, four dogs, and two cats. My family and I live on a cattle farm here in Hickman County, where we embrace the fun and adventure that comes with farm life. I look forward to meeting you and your pups!
Jennifer
Mobile GroomerBio coming soon.
Reed
Maintenance TechnicianBio coming soon.
Meagan
Social Media CoordinatorHi! My name is Meagan and I’m the one taking action shots of your dog playing on the farm. I’ll be posting cute pictures of your fur baby and documenting their stay. My mission is to make each and every pup feel special and loved. I have several years of Social Media Strategy experience along with 20 years caring for animals. When I’m not working, I’m exploring coffee shops, bingeing horror movies, and traveling. I live in a tiny cabin with my husband, Lucas, and two cats.