The Owners

Amber Johnson, CPPS, FFC-PS

CEO, Certified Professional Pet Sitter & Fear Free Certified Pet Sitter

Hey there, fellow pet parents! It’s Amber, and I’m super excited to connect with all of you! I’m one of the proud owners of PAWsome Companions, a pet care business that specializes in pet sitting and dog walking right here in beautiful Ventura County.


My journey into the pet care world comes from a deep love for our furry friends. I wear many hats—CEO, Certified Professional Pet Sitter, and Fear-Free Certified Pet Sitter—but at my core, I’m all about making sure our pets are happy and healthy. I’ve gathered a bunch of certifications along the way, from caring for pets with cancer to understanding how to safely transport them and learning about their behavior. I’m always looking to improve and deepen my knowledge for the sake of our beloved companions.


When your pets are with me, they’re not just clients; they become part of my family. I treat them with all the love and care I would give my own. I truly believe every pet is unique and deserves a safe, nurturing environment that caters to their individual needs. Whether it’s spoiling them with their favorite treats, engaging them in fun activities, or just being there to keep them company, I’m dedicated to providing the most loving and attentive care possible. Can’t wait to meet your furry family members!

Douglas Schmachtenberger, CPS-DW

CEO, Certified Professional Sitter & Walker/Handler

Hey there! I’m Doug, one of the proud co-owners of PAWsome Companions, and I’m thrilled to share what we do for your furry family members. Honestly, my heart lights up every time I get to work with animals—whether it’s the boundless energy of a playful puppy or the charming antics of a sassy cat. Each pet has their own unique spirit, and I truly enjoy connecting with every one of them.


A bit about me: I’m a Marine veteran, and that experience has given me some valuable skills, especially when it comes to handling larger dogs or those with a bit more personality. The discipline and patience I learned in the military really help me tailor my approach to meet each pet’s individual needs. I believe that every animal is special, and I’m committed to providing care that reflects their quirks and requirements.

 

As the Lead Dog Walker and Trainer at PAWsome Companions, I offer a wide range of services to keep your pets happy and healthy. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll for our senior dogs who enjoy a slower pace or an exciting adventure hike for those energetic pups, I make sure every outing is enriching. I see walks as more than just a routine—they’re a chance for your pet to explore, exercise, and socialize. My goal is to create experiences that keep tails wagging and spirits high, whether we’re wandering through the neighborhood or hitting the local trails.


One of the most fulfilling parts of my job is building strong, lasting relationships with both pets and their owners. I love getting to know each pet’s unique personality and understanding the needs and concerns of their families. Open communication is key, and I want you to feel supported every step of the way. Every day, I’m grateful to be in a profession that aligns with my passion for animal care. I carry the Marine values of loyalty and commitment into every interaction, promising to treat your furry friends with the same love and respect I give to my own giant Great Pyrenees, Gunnar, who’s just a year old. Together, let’s enhance the happiness and well-being of our beloved pets. Semper Fidelis! 💪🏻

Certifications

The Team

Welcome to PAWsome Companions, where the warm California sunshine wraps you and your furry friends in a cozy embrace! We’ve created a home away from home for your beloved pets because we understand just how much they mean to you. Our commitment is to provide top-notch care right in the comfort of their familiar surroundings, ensuring they feel safe and loved. We’re proud to serve pet owners in the beautiful Ventura and Los Angeles County areas.


Imagine a place where your pets can enjoy joyful walks, receive attentive care, and indulge in a bit of pampering—all while being surrounded by the love they deserve. We can’t wait to meet you and your furry family members! Here, every day is a new adventure, filled with happy barks, soothing purrs, and joyful whinnies. We pour our hearts into creating a nurturing environment where your animals can thrive.

 

Meet Gunnar, our gentle Great Pyrenees puppy, whose calming presence brings a sense of peace to everyone around. Then there’s Canelo, our playful foster American Pit Bull, who brightens our days with his affectionate spirit. Each pet we care for adds their own special touch to our lives, enriching our world with their unconditional love and loyal companionship.


We know that pets are more than just animals; they’re cherished family members. Our mission is to make every tail wag, every purr resonate with happiness, and every moment spent together overflow with joy. Join us in celebrating the incredible bond we share with our pets as we continue to provide the exceptional care they truly deserve!

Donna Dolore, CPS

Certified Pet Sitter

Hey there, I'm Donna! I'm a qualified caregiver for animals working at PAWsome Companions. I adore what I do and the opportunity to spend my days surrounded by furry friends! 

 

Whether it's taking dogs for walks, feeding cats, or simply giving pets some love and attention, I find joy in every moment I spend with these amazing creatures. Their unconditional love and loyalty never fail to brighten my day and make all the hard work worth it. 

 

I believe that animals have a way of healing our hearts and souls, and I am grateful to be able to provide them with the care and love they deserve. Working at PAWsome Companions has been a dream come true for me, and I look forward to many more years of making a difference in the lives of animals.

Kylie Sluder, CDW, CACW

Dog Walker, Hiking Guide

Hello! I’m Kylie, a certified dog walker with training in first aid and CPCR. I serve as the primary guide for hiking and outings. My devotion lies in caring for animals, particularly dogs. They hold a special place in my heart, serving as beloved family members who bring us immense happiness and affection. This dedication has led me to focus on pet sitting and dog walking services that emphasize enjoyable hikes, outings, and group walks. When you entrust me with your four-legged family members, rest assured that they will receive top-notch care. Leveraging my extensive experience and comprehensive knowledge of canine behavior, I prioritize the safety, happiness, and well-being of each furry friend under my watch.

 

I derive immense joy from embarking on adventures with the dogs in my care, particularly at the beach or dog park! Witnessing their enthusiasm as they explore new environments and forge new connections is truly special. I pledge to shower your pets with the love and attention they deserve during their time with me. I look forward to meeting you and your cherished companions!

We are currently looking to grow our team with individuals who share our passion for animals and their well-being. If you are enthusiastic about animal rights and eager to positively impact the lives of animals, we invite you to join us. Our team is committed to championing for the welfare of all animals, and we are actively seeking individuals who align with our values. Whether you possess prior experience in animal activism or are new to the cause, we embrace all who are dedicated to assisting animals. Together, we can work towards a brighter future for our beloved animal companions. Come aboard today and advocate for those who lack a voice.