For over 7 years, we have been the trusted choice for pet parents in Simi Valley and throughout all of Ventura County and areas of Los Angeles County. Whether it’s wag-worthy dog walks, personalized pet sitting, or overnight care, we offer reliable and compassionate services—all in the comfort of your pet’s own home. To us, true wealth is measured in tail wags, happy purrs, and the sound of paws padding across the floor. Our own furry family—Gunnar our independent Great Pyrenees, Canelo our affectionate Pit Bull Terrier and Remi our sweet rescue Bulldogge,—reminds us daily why this work is so important. PAWsome Companions was founded on that love: a commitment to providing the kind of care we would want for our own pets. We specialize in caring for animals of all ages, sizes, and needs—from playful puppies to senior pets, and from giant breeds to rescues. No matter their background, your companions are always safe in our capable and compassionate hands.
What Sets Us Apart?
We’re passionate about pets and dedicated to ensuring your furry friends are both happy and healthy! Douglas, our co-owner, is a certified Professional Sitter and Walker (CPS-DW) through the Professional Pet Care Association (PPCA). Meanwhile, Amber, our other co-owner, holds multiple certifications: she’s a Certified Pet Care Professional (CPCP) from DogNostics, a certified Fear Free® Pet Sitter (FFCP), and has earned her Pet First Aid & CPCR (PFCA) certification. With this level of expertise, you can trust that your pet’s emotional and physical well-being is in excellent hands!
In addition to Amber and Douglas, our fantastic team is both bonded and insured. Everyone is certified in Pet First Aid/CPCR and has undergone advanced training in areas such as Feline Behavior Management, Senior Pet Care, Loose Lead Walking, and Chaos to Connection. We firmly believe that your pets deserve the highest quality care, personalized attention, and the reassurance that comes from knowing they are safe and comfortable every step of the way while in our care.
PAWsome Companions was founded by the dynamic duo Amber Johnson and Doug Schmachtenberger. United by their love for animals and a commitment to compassionate care, they established a trusted, relationship-focused pet care company that proudly serves Simi Valley and its surrounding communities throughout Ventura County and parts of Los Angeles County.
Amber and Doug launched PAWsome Companions with a clear mission: to offer pets the same love, patience, safety, and attention they would provide their own animals. Their lifelong bond with pets and dedication to high-quality care have transformed the company into a reliable resource for families seeking personalized and professional pet services.
Amber approaches every aspect of the business with nurturing attention to detail, emphasizing client relationships, individualized pet care, and enrichment, ensuring that each pet feels comfortable and truly valued. Doug complements this dedication with his calm, reliable presence, committed to creating a safe, structured, and positive environment for every pet in their care.
Together, they specialize in a range of services, including private pet sitting, in-home visits, dog walking, overnight care, doggy daycare, enrichment visits, transportation, adventure hikes, medication support, and customized pet care tailored to each pet’s unique personality, routine, and needs. Their philosophy extends beyond basic pet care; they believe in fostering trust, building meaningful connections, and providing enriching experiences that enhance both physical and emotional well-being.
As local business owners, Amber and Doug take pride in serving their community with integrity, professionalism, and compassion. They recognize the importance of trust in caring for beloved pets and strive to offer every client peace of mind through reliable communication, personalized attention, and exceptional care standards. For them, PAWsome Companions is more than just a business; it embodies their shared passion for animals, their commitment to helping pets thrive, and their promise to treat every pet like family.
Certified Pet Care Professional (CPCP), Fear Free Certified Pet Sitter (FFCP), First Aid & CPCR Certified (PFAC)
💕 Get to Know the Heart Behind PAWsome Companions
Hello, amazing pet parents! 👋 I’m Amber, one of the proud owners of PAWsome Companions—a passionate, pet-loving business providing professional pet sitting and dog walking services throughout Ventura County, and extending up to 40 miles into the Los Angeles area. I’m also a proud dog mom to (3) incredible fur babies:
🐶 Gunnar – my gentle 2-year-old Great Pyrenees with a heart as big as his paws
🐾 Canelo – my spirited, fawn-colored American Pit Bull Terrier who’s full of personality
💛 Remi – my sweet Olde English Bulldogge who lights up every room he enters with his bully smile & 'wiggle butt'
💖 A Lifelong Love for Animals
My love for animals runs deep—it’s the heart of everything I do. Over the years, I’ve proudly worn many hats in the pet care field: from CEO of PAWsome Companions to earning certifications as a Certified Pet Care Professional and Fear-Free Certified Pet Sitter. Beyond the titles, my mission is simple:
✨ To ensure every pet I care for lives a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life. ✨
I’ve completed extensive training to support pets with unique medical, behavioral, and emotional needs—including those managing health challenges like cancer, anxiety, or mobility issues. My commitment to learning never stops; I’m always expanding my knowledge to provide the very best care possible.
🐕 A Heart for Specialized Care
Every pet is special, and their care should be too. I take a personalized, fear-free approach to every visit, ensuring your pets feel comfortable, secure, and loved. Whether it’s helping a senior dog move more easily, comforting a shy rescue, or administering medication with gentle patience—I’m here to make sure each pet receives the thoughtful, professional care they deserve.
❤️ Pets Are Family — Always
When your pets are in my care, they’re not just “clients.” They’re family—cherished, loved, and treated as if they were my own. From fun playtime and walks to quiet companionship and cuddle sessions, I tailor every visit to your pet’s personality and needs. My goal is to create joyful, stress-free experiences that make tails wag, whiskers twitch, and hearts happy. Because at PAWsome Companions, every wag, purr, and nuzzle matters. 🐾
🌟 My Promise to You
When you trust PAWsome Companions with your beloved pets, you can expect:
✅ Reliable, professional, and compassionate care
✅ Consistent communication and photo updates
✅ A sitter who treats your pets like their own
Since 2017, I’ve been proudly serving Ventura County and Los Angeles pet parents, giving them total peace of mind knowing their pets are cared for by experienced, loving professionals.
🐾 PAWsome Companions — Loving Care for Pets, Peace of Mind for You. ❤️
Certified Pet Sitter & Dog Walker (CPS-DW), First Aid & CPCR Certified (PFAC)
Meet Doug, our Lead Canine Adventure Specialist — a proud Marine veteran with a heart devoted to animals and a passion for creating meaningful connections with every furry friend he meets.
🐕 From the Marines to Pet Care
Hi there! 👋 I’m Doug, one of the proud co-owners of PAWsome Companions, and I’m thrilled to share how we can care for your beloved furry family members. Working with animals is one of my greatest joys — whether it’s the boundless energy of a playful puppy or the cool confidence of a sassy cat, every pet has its own personality, and I love discovering what makes each one special.
As a Marine veteran, my service taught me invaluable skills like discipline, patience, and adaptability — all of which serve me well in pet care, especially when working with larger dogs or pets with strong, dynamic temperaments. I truly believe every animal is one-of-a-kind and deserves personalized care that celebrates who they are.
🚶♂️ Lead Dog Walker & Etiquette Trainer
As Lead Dog Walker and Etiquette Trainer here at PAWsome Companions, my mission is to keep your pets happy, healthy, and engaged. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll for a senior dog or a high-energy adventure for an active pup, every walk is customized to fit your pet’s needs. To me, walks are far more than daily routines — they’re chances for dogs to explore, exercise, and socialize in safe, enriching ways.
Every outing is designed to bring joy, structure, and mental stimulation, so tails wag and spirits stay high — whether we’re exploring your neighborhood or heading out on scenic trails.
❤️ Building Trust & Lasting Bonds
One of the most rewarding parts of what I do is forming lasting relationships with both pets and their families.
I take time to understand each pet’s unique personality and the specific needs of their owners. Open, honest communication is at the heart of my approach because I want every client to feel supported, informed, and confident in the care their pets receive. Every day, I’m grateful to combine my love for animals with my commitment to service. My Marine values of loyalty, respect, and dedication guide everything I do — and I treat every pet as if they were my own.
🐾 A Family Devoted to Pet Care
At home, I share life with my partner and co-owner Amber, along with our (3) incredible rescue companions:
🐶 Gunnar – our gentle giant Great Pyrenees
🐾 Rémi – our sweet and affectionate Olde English Bulldogge
💪 Canelo – our energetic, playful American Pit Bull Terrier
Together, we’ve built a home (and a business) full of joy, love, and wagging tails — and we can’t wait to share that same warmth and happiness with your pets.
🌟 Dedicated to Enrichment & Well-Being
Beyond my love for walks and training, I’m passionate about helping pets thrive physically and mentally. I believe in:
✅ Thoughtful nutrition choices
✅ Engaging enrichment and playtime
✅ Positive reinforcement and training that builds confidence
Every pet deserves a life filled with purpose, joy, and adventure — and I’m here to help make that happen.
Let’s work together to enhance the happiness and well-being of your cherished companions. Semper Fidelis! 💪🏻
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 dedicated to providing your pets with unparalleled care because, at PAWsome Companions, their happiness, health, and comfort are our top priorities. But our commitment doesn’t end there—it extends to building strong, lasting relationships with pet parents like you. We focus on open communication, keeping you informed with updates, helpful tips, and expert advice so you can feel confident and supported every step of the way. After all, your peace of mind and trust mean just as much to us as your pet’s well-being and joy.
Administrative Office Manager
Hello! I’m Ashlee, and I’m thrilled to serve as the Administrative Manager at PAWsome Companions. As a Registered Veterinary Technician, I’ve found my dream career in a field that truly ignites my passion—caring for all types of animals! My journey with PAWsome Companions began long before I officially joined the team; as a client, I was genuinely impressed by the love and care my pets received. Fast forward to today, and I am incredibly grateful to contribute to that same exceptional care for others.
For over two years, I’ve had the honor of being part of this amazing organization. When the opportunity to join the team presented itself, I eagerly seized it. It was the perfect way to blend my love for animals with my organizational skills. From scheduling appointments and managing emails to handling invoicing and collecting payments, I work diligently to ensure everything runs seamlessly for our clients and their cherished pets. Being part of such a welcoming, pet-focused environment is incredibly fulfilling. Each day offers new opportunities to make a positive impact and spread joy among our clients and their furry companions. I couldn’t be happier to be on this journey with PAWsome Companions!
Intake Coordinator & Pet Sitter
Nicole Apperson serves as the Intake Coordinator and Professional Pet Sitter at PAWsome Companions, where she is often the first friendly voice new clients hear. She is dedicated to creating a welcoming, informative, and stress-free experience from the very first conversation, ensuring every pet parent feels confident and supported throughout the onboarding process.
Nicole manages new client inquiries, schedules consultations, coordinates client onboarding, reviews service requests, and works closely with our pet care team to ensure every detail is in place before services begin. Her exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to outstanding customer service help create a seamless experience for both clients and caregivers.
As Amber’s sister, Nicole has had the privilege of watching PAWsome Companions grow into a trusted, award-winning professional pet care company built on compassion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to exceptional service. She takes great pride in being part of a team that treats every pet like family and every client with the kindness, respect, and professionalism they deserve.
Nicole is also a devoted pet parent to her beloved rescue Pit Bull, Mama Dog, and her cherished cat, Snow White. Her personal experience as a pet owner gives her a genuine understanding of the trust families place in their pet care providers and inspires her to ensure every client receives the highest level of care and communication.
Nicole believes that outstanding customer service begins with compassion, honesty, clear communication, and attention to detail. Whether she’s helping a new client choose the right services, coordinating schedules, or answering questions, her goal is to make every interaction positive, reassuring, and personalized.
Nicole looks forward to welcoming you and your furry, feathered, or scaled family members to PAWsome Companions and helping you experience the professional, compassionate care that has made our team a trusted choice for pet families throughout Ventura and Los Angeles Counties.
Professional Pet Sitter & Behavioral Specialist
Adam is a Professional Pet Sitter and Dog Walker at PAWsome Companions who is passionate about providing safe, reliable, and compassionate care for every pet he meets. His dedication to animal welfare, combined with his hands-on experience and professional training, allows him to deliver exceptional care tailored to each pet’s individual needs.
Adam specializes in canine behavior and responsible dog breeding, giving him an in-depth understanding of canine body language, breed-specific characteristics, puppy development, and behavioral management. His ability to recognize subtle behavioral cues helps him build trust with dogs while promoting positive, low-stress interactions during walks, playtime, and in-home visits.
In addition to his experience, Adam is certified in Pet First Aid and canine behavior, providing him with the knowledge and skills to respond appropriately in emergencies while recognizing behaviors that may impact a pet’s comfort, safety, and well-being. His calm, patient approach helps pets feel secure and confident while in his care.
Whether caring for energetic puppies, active adult dogs, or senior companions, Adam is committed to treating every pet like family. As a valued member of the PAWsome Companions team, he shares our commitment to professionalism, safety, dependability, and providing the highest standard of personalized pet care. Pet parents can have peace of mind knowing their beloved companions are in knowledgeable, caring, and capable hands with Adam.
Our commitment to exceptional pet care starts at home with our beloved dogs, whom we treat as our children. Each one plays a vital role in shaping our approach to caring for our clients' pets, instilling in us the values of patience, empathy, and the significance of personalized attention. With all of them under the age of four, they keep us active and serve as a daily reminder of what compassionate and professional pet care truly entails. Our dogs are the heart and soul of PAWsome Companions, influencing our standards, our training, and our dedication to you. Meet them all below!
Meet Gunnar, our beloved 2.5-year-old Great Pyrenees and the very 1st cherished member of our expanding family pack. A gentle giant with his calm and steady temperament, Gunnar truly embodies the essence of trust, reassurance, and protective care—qualities we wholeheartedly aim to bring to every pet and home we enthusiastically serve. Beneath his fluffy and luxurious exterior lies an intelligent, sweet-natured soul that captivates everyone around him. While he may occasionally play hard to get during moments of fun, his heart is pure gold, and we couldn’t love him more than we already do!
Meet Rémi, our cherished 3-year-old rescue Olde English Bulldogge. He’s not just a pet; he is the heart and soul of our family and an extraordinary companion in every way. His remarkable journey is a testament to love, resilience, and the vital importance of second chances. Rescued from a dire situation just hours before his scheduled euthanasia, Rémi’s story serves as a powerful reminder that every pet, regardless of their past, deserves compassion, patience, and understanding. No matter the challenges they have faced, each animal has the potential to enrich our lives. With his unwavering spirit, unending joyful demeanor, and adorable wiggle butt, Rémi inspires our commitment to Fear Free handling and positive reinforcement methods. We wholeheartedly embrace each pet for who they are and celebrate the unique qualities they bring into our lives.
Canelo—affectionately known as "Nelly"—is our irresistibly charming 2-year-old American Pit Bull Terrier, a vibrant bundle of joy wrapped in muscle and endless wiggles. From the moment we met him at just 5 months old through one of our very first clients, it was love at first sight. Living his puppy life practically full-time in a crate and the thought of him possibly being sent to Mexico for training as a fighting dog was simply too heartbreaking. His gentle spirit and sweet temperament were far too precious to face such a devastating fate.
Filled with affection, infectious playfulness, and unwavering loyalty, Nelly embodies the pure happiness and boundless energy that pets bring into our lives each day. It is this profound love and steadfast devotion that drives us to treat every client's beloved pet as if they were our own cherished family member.