The Owners
Amber Johnson, CPPS, CACW
Founder/CEO/Certified Professional Pet Sitter
Hey there, fellow pet lovers! I’m Amber, and I’m so excited to connect with you! I’m one of the passionate owners of PAWsome Companions, a pet care service based in the gorgeous Ventura County. My journey here has been a heartfelt one, fueled by my love for animals. I wear a lot of different hats—from CEO to Certified Professional Pet Sitter (CPPS)—but at the core, it’s all about my dedication to our furry friends.
When your beloved pets are with me, they’re not just clients; they become part of my family. I truly believe that every pet deserves a safe, nurturing, and loving space where their unique needs are met. Whether it’s spoiling them with their favorite treats, engaging them in fun activities, or simply showering them with affection, I make it my mission to keep them happy and content. Whether we’re enjoying a long stroll in the park, playing a lively game of fetch, or cozying up on the couch, I aim to create moments that make them feel cherished.
I know that our pets hold a special place in our hearts, and that’s why I want you to feel completely at ease when you leave them in my care. They’ll receive the same love and attention I’d give to my own pets. I envision my home as a cozy retreat for them—a place where they can relax, play, and thrive until you’re back to scoop them up. My goal isn’t just to be a caregiver; I want to be a true companion to your pets, ensuring they feel loved every single day they’re with me!
Douglas Schmachtenberger, CPS-DW
Founder/CEO/Certified Dog 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!
The PAWsome Puptenders
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 still expanding our team, in search of animal activists and lovers like ourselves. If you are passionate about animal welfare and want to make a difference in the lives of animals, we would love to have you on board. Our team is dedicated to advocating for the rights and well-being of all animals, and we are always looking for like-minded individuals to join us in our mission. Whether you have experience in animal advocacy or are just starting out, we welcome all who share our passion for helping animals. Together, we can create a better world for our furry friends. Join us today and be a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves.
