Woof Pack Team

Melissa Helms - Founder and Trainer

My name is Melissa Helms, but feel free to call me Mel, most people do! I am the owner of Woof Pack Dog Hotel and Lucybelle’s Lodge. I am also the head trainer for Woof Pack. I am originally from Winston- Salem, North Carolina and I moved to the High Country several years ago. I graduated from Appalachian State University and loved Boone and the High Country so much I never left! I really love being around all types of animals and I currently have 16 dogs and a cat, each with a very unique personality. You can check them out on the Full Time Woof Packer’s Page!

Animal Behavior College – ABCTD Dog Trainer and Mentor Trainer

Fear Free Certified Trainer

Cooperative Paws Service Dog Coach

Puppy Start Right Instructor

Puppy Start Right Instructor Online

Instructor and Evaluator for American Kennel Club:

  • Canine Good Citizen
  • Community Canine
  • Urban Canine
  • Trick Dog
  • Fetch Dog
  • Farm Dog

Alliance of Therapy Dogs Member

Therapy Pets Unlimited – Regional Director for North Carolina

Association of Pet Dog Trainers Professional Member

C.L.A.S.S Canine Life and Social Skills Instructor

C.L.A.S.S Canine Life and Social Skills Evaluator

The Family Dog Private Trainer

Do More With Your Dog – Trick Trainer

Kelly Watkins - Boarding and Daycare Manager

Hello! My name is Kelly. I moved to Boone in 2021 for school and graduated from Appalachian State University December of 2024 with a degree in psychology with a concentration in human services. I have loved pets all my life, and I have always felt a special connection to dogs in particular! While I do not have any pups of my own at the moment I do co-parent two bunnies. I feel so privileged to be a part of the Woof Pack team and after a year and some change I feel blessed to work with Mel in managing her business while also getting to spend my days doting on and playing with your fur babies!

Morgan Riddle - Assistant Manager

Hi! My name is Morgan. I am a student at Appalachian State University working to get a degree in marketing. I am originally from Atlanta, GA but I am so excited to be here in Boone and work with your fur babies! I grew up with dogs and have always felt a connection to them. I started working with shelter dogs when I was 14 years old and have worked in the pet industry ever since. While I don’t have a dog of my own, I do foster! They love to hang out at Woof Pack with me and make new friends while they wait for their forever home. When I am back in Atlanta, I spend all of my free time volunteering at a local rescue facility. I also have three dogs at home that love road trips up to visit Boone! I am so grateful to have joined the Woof Pack family and have the opportunity to be Assistant Manager!

Kennedy George - Kennel Attendant

Hello! My name is Kennedy and I’m about to start my masters degree in athletic training at Appalachian State! I’m a huge sports fan and have been playing volleyball for the past 11 years. I’m originally from the Raleigh area but I have absolutely adored my time here in Boone! I am a huge animal lover, I’m always picking up little critters and asking strangers to pet their dogs, haha. Though I currently do not have any pets, I am so grateful to love and care for your fur babies like they are my own! 

Emma Jones - Kennel Attendant

Hi, my name is Emma! I just moved to Boone in October and I’ve been loving it ever since. I have a huge love for animals and all things outdoors. Especially dogs. I have one of my own and she is my whole world. Working at Woof Pack with amazing people who love dogs just as much as me, has been such a great experience. I love getting to know great people and being able to grow to love their pets as if they were my own.

Evan Silker - Pet Attendant

Hi! My name is Evan, and I’m a student at Appalachian State University studying psychology. I’ve always been a huge animal lover, especially when it comes to dogs! Before moving to Boone, I worked at a dog daycare for two years, so I’ve gotten to know just about every type of dog, from the little ones who think they’re 100 pounds to the 100-pound dogs who think they’re lap dogs. I love getting to know each dog’s personality and finding out what makes them happiest. When I’m not hanging out with pups, I’m usually listening to music, gaming, drawing, going for a run, or finding something to do around Boone. I’m super excited to be part of the Woof Pack family and can’t wait to meet, play with, and care for all of your fur babies like they’re my own!