The PAW-some Family
Welcome to PAWsome Companions, your trusted pet care service in sunny California! 🐾 For over seven years, we've been a favorite among pet owners in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, offering wag-worthy dog walks, personalized pet sitting, and comprehensive care services—all delivered in the comfort of your pet’s home.
Ever wondered what true wealth feels like? For us, it’s measured in tail wags, happy purrs, and the joyous sounds of paws on the floor. Our family includes Gunnar, our independent and majestic Great Pyrenees, Canelo, the sweetest and most affectionate American Pit Bull Terrier, and Rémi, our precious rescue Olde English Bulldogge. Together, they’ve filled our lives with adventure, love, and the kind of joy only pets can provide. At PAWsome Companions, it’s not just about caring for animals—it’s about cherishing the bond we share with them.
Inspired by our deep love for animals and our own experiences with other pet care services, we created PAWsome Companions to deliver the kind of exceptional care we’d want for our own furry family members. We specialize in catering to all kinds of pets, from playful puppies to senior pets, giant breeds, and rescues. No matter their size, age, or background, your pets are in safe, compassionate hands with us.
What sets us apart? For starters, we’re not just pet lovers—we’re professionals. Amber, one of our co-owners, is a Certified Professional Pet Sitter through Pet Sitters International and a certified Fear Free Pet Sitter. This means your pet’s emotional wellbeing is just as important to us as their physical care. With Amber’s expertise and our shared passion, we ensure your furry, feathery, or scaly companions feel safe, happy, and loved.
PAWsome Companions is led by Amber Johnson and Douglas Schmachtenberger, two dedicated pet care professionals who continually strive for excellence. We’re bonded, insured, and certified in Pet First Aid and CPR, providing you with peace of mind and trust. But we don’t stop there—our commitment to learning means we’ve gained additional certifications in areas like Feline Behavior Management, Senior Pet Care, and even advanced training programs like Chaos to Connection. Why? Because your pets deserve nothing less than the best, and we’re committed to delivering just that.
Our Owners
Amber Johnson, CPPS, FFCP
CEO, Certified Professional Pet Sitter, Fear Free Certified Pet Sitter, First Aid & CPCR Certified
Hello, amazing pet parents! My name is Amber, and I’m one of the proud owners of PAWsome Companions—a passionate, pet-loving business dedicated to providing exceptional pet sitting and dog walking services across the beautiful Ventura County. We even extend our care up to 40 miles into the Los Angeles area! I’m also a proud dog mom to three incredible fur babies: Gunnar, my gentle yet giant 2-year-old Great Pyrenees; Canelo, my spirited and stunning fawn-colored American Pit Bull Terrier; and Remi, my sweet Olde English Bulldogge who never fails to steal the spotlight and brighten every room he enters.
My love for animals runs deep, and it’s what fuels my passion for pet care. Over the years, I’ve worn many hats in this field, from serving as the CEO of PAWsome Companions to earning certifications as a Certified Professional Pet Sitter and a Fear-Free Certified Pet Sitter. Beyond the titles, my true mission is simple: to ensure every pet I care for lives a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life. To make this a reality, I’ve undergone extensive training to support pets with unique needs—whether they’re facing health challenges like cancer, require specialized behavioral care, or need assistance with safe and comfortable travel. My commitment to learning is never-ending, and I’m always looking for ways to enhance the care I provide to your beloved four-legged family members.
When your pets are in my care, they’re more than just “clients”—they become cherished members of my extended family. I treat each furry friend with the same love, respect, and attention I give my own pets because every animal deserves a nurturing, personalized environment where they can thrive. From spoiling them with their favorite treats to keeping them active with engaging playtime or simply offering companionship when they’re feeling lonely, my goal is to deliver care that makes tails wag and hearts happy. 💜
Douglas Schmachtenberger, CCDT, CPS-DW
CEO, Certified Pet Sitter/Walker & Certified Canine Dog Trainer
Hi there! I’m Doug, one of the proud co-owners of PAWsome Companions, and I’m excited to share how we can care for your beloved furry family members. Working with animals is my greatest joy—whether it’s the boundless energy of a playful puppy or the unique charm of a sassy cat, every pet has its own special personality. I truly cherish the opportunity to connect with each and every one of them.
A little about me: I’m a Marine veteran, and my time in the service taught me invaluable skills like discipline, patience, and adaptability. These qualities are especially helpful when working with larger dogs or pets with strong, dynamic personalities. I firmly believe that every animal is one-of-a-kind, and I’m dedicated to providing personalized care that celebrates their individuality.
As the Lead Dog Walker and Etiquette Trainer at PAWsome Companions, I offer a wide range of services to keep your pets happy, healthy, and engaged. From leisurely strolls for senior dogs to high-energy hikes for our more adventurous pups, every outing is customized to suit their needs. For me, walks are so much more than a basic routine—they’re an opportunity for pets to explore, exercise, and socialize. My goal is to create meaningful and joyful experiences that leave tails wagging and spirits soaring, whether we’re wandering the neighborhood or venturing along scenic trails.
One of the most rewarding parts of my work is forming lasting relationships with both pets and their families. I take pride in understanding each pet’s unique personality while addressing the specific needs and concerns of their owners. Open and honest communication is at the heart of my approach because I want you to feel supported every step of the way. Every day, I’m grateful to work in a field that allows me to combine my passion for animals with my commitment to service. My Marine values of loyalty and dedication guide me, and I treat your pets with the same love and care as I do my own. Speaking of family, I share my home with my partner and co-owner Amber, and our (3) incredible rescue companions: Gunnar, my gentle giant Great Pyrenees; Rémi, my sweet Olde English Bulldogge; and Canelo, my energetic American Pit Bull Terrier. Together, we embrace a life full of joy, and I hope to bring that same happiness to your furry family members.
Beyond my love for animals, I have a deep passion for creating enriching environments that help pets thrive. Whether it’s through thoughtful nutrition, engaging toys, or customized training techniques, I believe every pet deserves a life filled with care and excitement. Let’s work together to enhance the happiness and well-being of your cherished companions. Semper Fidelis! 💪🏻
Certifications
Our Puptenders
Here at PAWsome Companions, we take immense pride in providing exceptional, top-notch care for your cherished and beloved pets, and that wouldn’t be possible without the dedication and talent of our incredible team. Each member of our staff brings not only a unique set of skills but also a shared, unwavering passion for animals, ensuring your pets receive the love, attention, and high-quality care they genuinely deserve. From our highly experienced and reliable walkers to our attentive sitters and skilled trainers, every single team member is fully committed to creating a safe, happy, and nurturing environment that your furry friends will thrive in.
We’re here to go above and beyond in giving your pets the best care imaginable because, at PAWsome Companions, their happiness, well-being, and comfort are at the very heart of everything we do! Our commitment doesn’t stop at exceptional care—we also prioritize building meaningful relationships with pet parents. We believe in keeping open lines of communication, sharing updates, tips, and advice to ensure you feel confident and informed every step of the way. After all, your trust and peace of mind are just as important to us as your pet’s happiness.
Kylie Sluder, CPS-DW
Professional Pet Sitter & Dog Walker
Hi there! I'm Kylie, your trusted pet sitter and dog walker. Whether it's adventurous dog hikes, group walks, or personalized care, I bring a lifelong passion for animals to every interaction. Growing up on a farm in the picturesque town of Fillmore, my love for animals blossomed early, and it has only deepened over the years. Caring for your furry family members isn’t just a job for me—it’s my true calling. I consider it a privilege to provide them with the love, companionship, and attention they deserve, every step of the way.
I know how much your pets mean to you—they’re not just animals; they’re cherished members of your family. That’s why I am committed to ensuring their happiness, health, and safety while they’re in my care. From leisurely neighborhood strolls to exhilarating hiking adventures or simply spending quality cuddle time, I tailor my approach to meet your pet’s unique needs. When you trust me with your beloved companions, you can feel confident knowing they’ll be treated with the same love and devotion I give to my own Frenchie, Kiko who we also call 'Blingers'.
She is affectionately known as “Bling” for her lively, bright, and captivating personality. She is such an integral part of my life. Her radiant presence and infectious zest for life are truly infectious—whether she’s making a statement with the other pups or enchanting a room with her charm. Her fascination and affection with people perfectly reflect her vibrant spirit: always finding beauty and brilliance in her surroundings. Just like Kiko, I strive to bring the same level of care, energy, and dedication to every pet I look after. 💎
Donna Dolore, CACW
Certified Animal Care Worker
Hello! I’m Donna, a Certified Animal Care Worker (CACW) at PAWsome Companions. Caring for animals isn’t just my job—it’s my passion and my purpose. Every day, I feel incredibly fortunate to spend time with the sweetest furry friends. From taking dogs on energizing walks to feeding playful kittens or simply showering pets with love, every moment I spend with them fills my heart with pure joy.
Their unconditional love and loyalty never fail to inspire me and remind me why I’m so devoted to this work. I truly believe animals have an extraordinary ability to bring comfort, healing, and happiness into our lives. It’s an honor for me to ensure they receive the care, compassion, and affection they deserve. Being part of the PAWsome family is more than a job—it’s a dream come true. I’m excited to continue making a positive impact in the lives of these incredible animals for years to come.
Ashlee Pretzia, RVT
Registered Veterinary Technician & Office Manager
Welcome! I’m Ashlee, and I have the pleasure of serving as the Office Administrator & Manager at PAWsome Companions. I’m also a proud Registered Veterinary Technician—truly a dream career for an animal lover like me! My journey with PAWsome Companions began long before I joined the team. I first experienced this amazing place as a client, where I was blown away by the love and care my pets received. Fast forward to today, and I’m incredibly grateful to now play a role in providing that same exceptional care to others. For over two years, I’ve been privileged to contribute to this wonderful organization. When the opportunity to join the team came along, I didn’t think twice. It was the perfect chance to blend my passion for animals with my knack for organization. From scheduling appointments and managing emails to handling invoicing, I work hard to ensure that everything runs smoothly for our clients and their beloved pets. Being part of such a welcoming and pet-focused environment is truly rewarding. Each day brings new opportunities to make a positive impact and share joy with our clients and their furry companions. I couldn’t be happier to be on this journey with PAWsome Companions!
