OUR STORY
Mikel Miller
My name is Mikel Miller (pronounced Michael). I opened the kennel in 2011 and have extensive knowledge of dogs, dog training, breed characteristics, and dog health. I'm a USMC Veteran and live on the premises.
I designed Rawhide Ranch with two things in mind: your dog's safety and eliminating unnecessary stress. Our kennel was intentionally designed so that each dog's private quarters face the same direction, with four-inch-thick masonry walls separating the kennels and private patios. This creates a cozy, private space where dogs can feel secure without feeling isolated.
The result is a peaceful, low-stress environment where dogs can rest undisturbed for hours, just as they would at home without the constant barking and overstimulation common in larger boarding facilities. While other kennels have adopted elements of this design, Rawhide Ranch remains unique in South Central Kansas. We stay intentionally small and do not offer group play with unfamiliar dogs, keeping the focus on safety, comfort, and personalized care.
Agility is my passion and I currently compete and train a little Boston Terrier named Karma. She is an amazing partner is one of the top Boston Terriers in the county.
Chelsea DeVries
Chelsea is in charge of Guest Services and will likely be the one who has the most contact with your dog. Chelsea is an Air Force Veteran and has extensive knowledge of dogs, dog training, and dog behavior. Chelsea has an amazing way with the dogs. Even the shyest dog will warm up to her.
Chelsea competes with her Shetland Sheepdog, Hannah in AKC Rally and Scentwork and qualified for AKC National Rally Championships in 2026.
KEEPER and RIPP
These two are our resident farm dogs and greeters. The English Shepherd is a heritage breed all-around farm dog believed to have been the dog originally brought to the Midwest by the settlers.
The English Shepherd was first dog I saw as a kid growing up on a dairy farm in SE Kansas. They are considered a rare breed and are difficult to find now, being carefully bred by only a handful of breeders who primarily only place these dogs with a farm family.
Keeper is 8 and Ripp is a young pup who will be training and competing in agility before you know it.
Why Choose Us
Experience the difference of personalized, home-based dog boarding where your pet's comfort, safety, and happiness always come first.
NO Group Play
We don't believe in group play. Nope, never, not here. It's just not safe!
In fact, your dog will never be exposed to another dog here at Rawhide Ranch. When your dog is having exercise time in our 1/2 acre fenced yard, all the other dogs are locked away in their kennel, giving your dog a stress-free, private exercise time.
Never more than 10 dogs
We are small on purpose. Being small is key to creating a low-stress boarding experience for our clients.
Because we are small, our daily routine is simple - much like it is at home - without the constant hustle bustle you find in a big kennel.
As a result, your dog gets plenty of sleep. Sleep deprivation is a major cause of stress-related kennel fatigue
Unique Facility Design
I designed this kennel with two things in mind. Your dog's safety, and eliminating unnecessary stress.
The kennels all face one direction, and walls between kennels and private patios are four-inch-thick masonry. Your dog feels safe in his cozy, private quarters without feeling alone.
The results? Peace and quiet! Dogs have the chance to sleep for hours undisturbed - just like at home, without the stress of constant barking.
Other kennels have copied my design, but have doubled the size and/or allow group play. We remain the only kennel like this in S Central KS.
Veterinarian Recommended
Area vets have come to know us and recommend us to their elderly patients or patients with stress-related "issues".
