by amberspets | Dec 3, 2013 | blog, Uncategorized
“If you go, nothing will be the same when you get back.” This was the general sentiment from my friends when I told everyone I was planning to take advantage of an opportunity to be a wrangler on a guest ranch in west Texas, for 8-9 months, 1200 miles away...by amberspets | Jan 7, 2013 | blog, Uncategorized
Don’t squat with yer spurs on’ and ‘Don’t drink water downstream from the herd.’ These are some of the old adages from the west where I recently had the opportunity to visit. Now, these particular pieces of cowboy wisdom may not directly...
Pet Sitter
Sarah has been dubbed a ‘dog whisperer’ by more than one client! I (Amber) met Sarah at Pet Refuge many years ago now where we volunteered together in the dog department. Sarah cares for volunteer’s dogs, and they gave her a glowing recommendation!
She has extensive experience with dogs that are nervous, large, and spirited and handles them with unfazed confidence-which allows the dog to then relax under her leadership. Sarah also spent some time studying to be a vet tech, but further into her education, she decided to follow her heart and true passion on the path of pet sitting-and we are so glad she did!
Sarah is such a hard worker, and highly dependable! She has a sweet quiet nature that really connects with dogs that need that little extra something-kitties too!
Sarah’s primary service area is Granger, northside South Bend, and the southern part of Niles. Sarah is available for Overnight Care.
Pet Sitter
Fun fact-Maggie trained reindeer at the Life Adventure Center! She also had a farm/house sitting business when living in Illinois called Ponies and Paws.
With 29 years of Equine experience gained from working on guest ranches in Colorado, Hunter and Eventer shows, teaching Hunter riding lessons, riding on her college equestrian team at Northern Illinois University, exercised race horses for three years on a thoroughbred farm in Kentucky, helped train over 60 yearlings on the thoroughbred farm, has worked with mares and foals, and has experience working with a therapeutic horse program at the Life Adventure Center-Maggie has been devoted to her passion of caring for horses her whole life!
Maggie also dotes on her own horse and spends her free time waiting on her now senior pasture pony hand and foot.
Maggie brings a wide range of skills including canine care. She previously worked at the Elkhart Humane Society for three years, and a couple of doggy daycares prior to that in Illinois. She has two collies herself and loves the breed!
We are thankful for the experience and quiet confidence that Maggie brings to APP!
🐾 Maggie is Pet First Aid and CPR Certified
Maggie’s primary service area is the Sunnymede neighborhoods, Notre Dame, southside South Bend, and Mishawaka. She is not available for Overnight care.
Pet Sitter
Originally from out west, Jess has spent years caring for pets in a variety of settings. She worked for a pet-sitting company in Florida and dedicated over a year to handling and rehabilitating aggressive dogs at the El Paso Humane Society. Her ability to connect with animals of all temperaments makes her a trusted friend to even the shyest or most nervous pets.
When she’s not out spoiling your furry family members, Jess manages a small café in downtown South Bend, fueling the community with great coffee and good vibes. She shares her home with one lovable pup and three quirky cats, proving that a house isn’t a home without a few furry companions!
Outside of work, Jess loves to travel, read about botany and history, and immerse herself in all things agriculture. Whether she’s exploring new places or curling up with a good book, she’s always learning something new.
Pet Sitter
As a pet momma to her own big group including a German shepherd, Great Pyrenees, OES, Blue and Gold Macaw, Green-Wing Macaw, Umbrella Cockatoo, Eclectus, Indian Ringneck and two Juliana pigs, Nykki is no stranger to all the love and care it takes to keep her babies spoiled and happy. She also loves helping out her friends who have farm animals, so working with us at APP is a great fit!
Nykki has always had a great passion for animals and looks forward to caring for your babies! She is eager to get out there and love on your babies!!
Nykki is Pet First Aid and CPR certified, and has a completed a Feline Safety Grooming course. Nykki is also Fear Free Certified.
Nykki’s Primary Service area includes north side south bend, and some Granger. Nykki is not available for overnights, weekends, mornings or nights.
Pet Sitter
Rachel has touched the lives of many students here in the school system where she has been a teacher since 1999. I know those students and their families love Rachel as much as we do!
Rachel has also been an active volunteer in the rescue world. Devoting time to caring for the homeless dogs at Pet Refuge been a passion of hers through the years. I love finding people with a mutual passion for rescue! Her calm demeanor and attention to detail make her a favorite with the felines, too! (Shhh, don’t tell her own pack of adorable pups!)
Having cared for family and friend’s pets for years, including administering medications, Rachel has been a great fit!
Although during the school year Rachel’s availability with APP is limited to evenings and weekends, we love having such a wonderful person working with us!
🐾 Rachel is Pet First Aid and CPR Certified
Rachel’s primary service area is the Sunnymede area, the southside of South Bend, and Mishawaka. She has very limited availability for Overnight care.
Pet Sitter
Hey there pet parents! Get ready to meet Ciera - your fur-baby's new play-date pal and trusty pet sitter extraordinaire! With years of experience as a vet assistant at the ABC clinic, Ciera brings a wealth of knowledge and care to every tail-wagging moment.
Not only does Ciera have her own crazy pup crew at home, but she's also a super mom to two human kiddos, juggling love and attention for all her family members. When she's not wrangling her own fur and human babies, she's here at APP, ready to pamper your pets with that same level of love and dedication.
From energetic walks to cozy snuggles, Ciera's passion for pets shines through in every moment spent together. Say goodbye to pet-parent guilt and hello to carefree days knowing your furry friends are in the best hands with Ciera.
🐾 Ciera is Pet First Aid and CPR Certified
Ciera’s primary service area is the Greater Michiana area. She is currently working part time with APP. She is only available for Overnight care on the weekends.
Pet Sitter
Hey there, pet parents and beloved furballs!
Get ready to meet Heather - your new pet-sitting fairy dog-mother extraordinaire! Imagine a mix of sweetness, dog and bunny whispering prowess, shy-pup and kitty charmer, and Mrs Clean - that's Heather in a nutshell!
With a heart as warm as freshly baked treats and a talent for making every doggo feel like top dog, Heather is your go-to pet-sitting ace. Shy dogs? Fear not - Heather's got the magic touch to turn timid tails into confident wags!
When she's not busy snuggling up with furry friends, you'll find Heather at home, sharing the love with her husband, three rambunctious pups, and two purr-fect kitty companions. It's a full house of wagging tails, cozy cuddles, and endless laughter.
So, if you're on the hunt for a pet sitter who's as reliable as a wagging tail, as caring as a paw in your hand, and as prepared as a furry first responder, Heather is the pet-sitting superstar you've been looking for! She might just vacuum your house too as Heather also has a love for keeping things clean lol!
🐾 Heather is Pet First Aid and CPR Certified
Heather provides services for Mishawaka, Osceola, and South Bend. She provides overnights on a limited basis.
Pet Sitter
Introducing Katelyn - our sunshine in the APP family! Her radiant smile is sure to brighten your day, just as it does in her dual roles as an MSA at NDFCU and a dedicated pet sitter.
A proud Saint Mary's College alum with a Master's in Occupational Therapy from IU, Katelyn shares her love with your fur babies while spreading joy with her positive vibes. When she’s not working, she’s spending time with her adorable Australian shepherd puppy taking walks and making memories!
Katelyn adores spending time walking dogs or cuddling kittens, adding an extra dose of love and care to her pet-sitting services. We're thrilled to have her caring spirit and warm personality as part of our APP family!
🐾 Katelyn is Pet First Aid and CPR Certified
Katelyn’s primary service area is North South Bend, Niles, and Mishawaka. She is currently ONLY available for Overnight care.
Pet Sitter
Welcome Gabby! Gabby is a homegrown-local to the Michiana area who has been caring for animals in one form or another since 2010 and is super excited to be joining APP!
Having owned all sorts of pets over the years ranging from dogs, cats, rats and horses – her love for animals knows no size, shape or species as long as she can talk to them in a funny voice. 😂
When she isn’t caring for other people’s furry family members, Gabby can usually be found out hiking local trails with her trusty adventure partner – a year old Irish Setter puppy named Artemis! After tending to the energy needs of said adventure partner though, she likes to enjoy sleepy puppy snuggles and a good movie and spending time with her friends and family.
Gabby’s love of animals couldn’t help but expand into her free time too because for over a decade now she has also volunteered weekly feeding horses at Reins of Life. No matter what the weather is or how chaotic life can get, she’s always found that “once she’s out there among the horses, the world truly does seems right, if only for an hour or so. Animals might not be able to fix everything, but what can’t be fixed can certainly be made bearable by them, better because of them.” So it’s no surprise that after finding Amber’s Pampered Pets, Gabby knew instantly that her deep love of cats and dogs, her attentiveness to detail, and commitment to going above and beyond were the perfect combination to pursue a start in taking care of pets right here in her own community!
Whatever your puppy, kitty, or horse needs – Gabby will be there with bright eyes and a happy smile ready to shower them in as much love as they can handle! Pair that with all the responsibility of someone who knows exactly how precious of a soul is on the other end of the leash, and who is beyond grateful for the honor, you can trust that your pet will be cared for like they were her very own! 💕
🐾 Gabby is Pet First Aid and CPR certified
Gabby’s primary service area is Niles, Granger, Mishawaka. Gabby is available for overnight care on a limited basis.
Pet Sitter
Meet Natosha! As APP sitter Gabriella passionately recounted her day-to-day encounters with the remarkable animals at APP, Natosha instantly felt like it was a perfect opportunity she couldn't resist!
Right from her initial visit, Natosha clearly had a natural skill for pet sitting. Her natural ability to effortlessly connect with pets of all kinds was quite clear!
Devoting herself wholeheartedly to being a horse momma, Natosha has nurtured her beloved and handsome old companion, Major, since she was 4 or 5 years old. Alongside her equine duties, she finds joy in the company of her three adorable canine companions. Whenever she can steal away a few moments, Natosha spends time in tending to her garden or embarking on peaceful trail rides.
Natosha's commitment knows no bounds. She considers it her personal mission to care for your treasured pets as if they were her very own. Rest assured, your furry babies will flourish under her devoted and compassionate watch, receiving the genuine love, meticulous care, and undivided attention they so richly deserve.
🐾 Natosha is Pet First Aid and CPR Certified
Natosha’s primary service area is Mishawaka, Southside SB, Granger, and Sunnymede area. Natosha is available for overnight care.
Pet Sitter
Meet Gabs, a perpetual smile on her face, she has a talent for forming quick connections with shy kitties, nurturing deep bonds with dogs of all personalities, and winning the trust of even the most timid pups.
But Gabs isn't just a pet care professional; she's a devoted dog mom to two furry canine companions and one well, less furry feline, a Sphinx named Yoda. This personal connection shapes her approach, allowing her to understand and cater to the unique needs of every pet.
Rest assured, when you place your sweet pets in Gabs's capable hands, they'll receive an exceptional level of compassion, loving care, and boundless happiness. With Gabs, your furry companions will thrive under her watchful eye.
🐾 Gabs is Pet First Aid and CPR Certified
Gabs primary service area is north and downtown South Bend, Granger and Mishawaka. She is available for overnight care.
Doody Division
Robin’s smiling face has been with APP since 2015! With a background in dog training for a number of years, she was a natural fit for dog walking and pet sitting visits.
She also has a heart for service and happily took on the challenge of being our head of the Doody Division Poop Scooper Extraordinaire! She continues in the role every weekday, while also filling in occasionally for pet sitting visits as needed.
She always has a smile on her face and enjoys providing a useful service for our APP family! She loves seeing APP pups in yards and always makes time to give them some love! She’s attentive to detail and includes a photo of the latched secure gate in each fun and silly poop scoop completion update!
Outside of work, Robin cherishes her time with her two adorable girls, loving wife and three ornery but sweet kitties!
For a clean yard and happy pets, choose Robin as your go-to APP Scooper!
Pet Sitter
Introducing Jennifer! She plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of our busy pet care schedule. With her meticulous attention to detail and proactive approach, she keeps everything running smoothly.
Jennifer's primary responsibility is managing our pet care schedule. She handles it with utmost care and precision, anticipating and addressing potential conflicts or issues to boost overall efficiency. The entire team greatly appreciates her dedication and commitment to maintaining a well-organized schedule.
Beyond her role at APP, Jennifer actively participates in animal rescue. Her passion lies in helping Basenjis, a breed close to her heart. She engages in rescue transports and provides foster care for these dogs, reflecting her genuine compassion and commitment to animal welfare.
In addition to her administrative and rescue efforts, Jennifer's warm and welcoming nature creates a positive and comfortable environment for our clients and their pets. Whether she's assisting behind the scenes or interacting directly, her caring demeanor builds strong bonds and ensures a pleasant experience for all. We are truly grateful to have Jennifer in our APP family!!
🐾 Jennifer is Pet First Aid and CPR Certified, and has completed her Fear Free™ Certification training.
Jennifer is available for overnight care and provides service for the Niles area and all over Michiana.
Pet Sitter
Allow me to introduce you to Kaleb! Known as a doggy whisperer, Kaleb possesses a natural affinity for our four-legged friends. Kaleb brings a sense of calm confidence to every visit, creating an environment where trust and connection thrive.
One of Kaleb's recent accomplishments was forging a deep bond with a very shy pup. With patience and understanding, he earned her trust in just two visits, leaving him elated. Kaleb's genuine joy in helping dogs overcome their reservations is truly heartwarming.
When you entrust your pets to Kaleb, you can be assured that they are in caring and capable hands. As a dog dad himself, his love for animals shines through every moment spent with them. Your furry babies will undoubtedly enjoy the soothing presence that Kaleb brings. Kaleb spends his home time with his partner Brodie and their three canine babies.
With Kaleb by their side, you can rest easy knowing that your furry family members are receiving the love, attention, and care they deserve.
🐾 Kaleb is Pet First Aid and CPR certified
Kaleb’s primary service area is Mishawaka, Granger and South Bend. He is available for overnights (limited basis during summer months).
Pet Sitter
Introducing Nichole, a passionate animal lover with a lifelong affinity for our furry friends. She proudly cares for three dogs and cherishes her two kitties, showering them with endless love.
With years of experience as a vet tech at renowned local facilities such as Animal Emergency Clinic, ABC Clinic, and her current role at Preventative Pet Medicine, Nichole possesses the necessary skills and expertise to provide exceptional care, especially in emergency situations. Remaining calm and level-headed under pressure, she proves to be an invaluable asset to us at APP. Nichole's dedication to delivering the best possible care to every furry patient she encounters goes above and beyond expectations.
What truly sets Nichole apart is her enthusiasm for embracing challenges, particularly when working with pets requiring specialized medical attention. She finds great joy and fulfillment in positively impacting the lives of these special animals.
Nichole's love for animals, extensive vet tech experience, and commitment to providing exceptional care make her an invaluable APP sitter. With Nichole onboard, you can rest assured knowing your pets will receive the utmost attention and compassion.
🐾 Nichole is Pet First Aid and CPR Certified
Nichole’s primary service area is Mishawaka area. Nichole is not available for overnight care. Nichole works full time at the vet, and part time with us at APP so her availability is limited.
Pet Sitter
Welcome to the fabulous world of pet-sitting with Gabrielle - where tails wag, purrs abound, and cuddles are always on the agenda!
With her own adorable furry companion by her side, and a cozy home shared with her boyfriend, Gabrielle is the epitome of a pet-loving aficionado. Even though she's part-time at APP, her dedication is full-time and her heart is all in.
From chickens to cats to dogs, Gabrielle adores meeting every furry, feathery friend who comes her way.
She can't wait to shower your fur baby with love and care, making sure their time with her is nothing short of paws-itively amazing!
🐾 Gabrielle is Pet First Aid and CPR Certified
Gabrielle’s primary service area is Mishawaka, Granger and South Bend. She is not available for Overnight Care.
Pet Sitter
Step into the world of pet perfection with Brianna - your go-to gal for all things furry and fabulous!
Not only does Brianna work her magic in her own dog grooming, but she's also a pro at deciphering doggy body language and giving them exactly what they need. With her keen eye and warm heart, she's ready to pamper your pets like royalty.
Thrilled to be part of the team, Brianna's enthusiasm is contagious, and her love for all animals shines through. Your fur babies are in for a treat as Brianna can't wait to shower them with the cuddles and care they deserve. Get ready for a tail-wagging, purrfectly amazing experience with Brianna by your side!
🐾 Brianna is Pet First Aid and CPR Certified
Brianna’s primary service area is Osceola, South Bend, Mishawaka and Granger. Brianna is available for overnights on a limited basis.
Pet Sitter
With over 15 years of hands-on experience in animal care—including working at a veterinary clinic, volunteering at shelters, pet grooming, and, of course, being a devoted pet parent—Shelly has dedicated her life to making pets feel safe, comfortable, and loved. Her calm, patient nature helps her connect with even the most nervous or shy pets, and she takes pride in earning their trust (and sneaking in some extra belly rubs).
When she’s not busy pampering pets, Shelly is surrounded by her own beloved crew—three dogs (Flapjack, Rumple, and Dakota) and two cats (Leonard and Sheldon). Whether she’s taking her pups on adventures, perfecting her grooming skills, or just soaking up some cozy couch snuggles, she’s happiest when she’s with animals.
Pet Sitter
Say hello to the one and only Chris - our pet-sitting superstar with a magical touch that even the spiciest cats can't resist!
From winning over feisty felines to charming dogs who typically shy away from men, Chris' infectious positivity, unbeatable attitude, and extensive animal experience make him a true standout in our team. Chris graduated from Purdue from the Animal Sciences department in 2018, and in his free time he loves walking his Newfoundland Reina on the Mishawaka River Walk.
Chris, who still resides on the family farm, diligently tends to their ducks, chickens, cows, and a few cats. His vast experience in livestock management, cultivated through years on the farm, equips him with a distinctive skill set and an abundance of affection for every animal he encounters.
Chris is a dog-walking enthusiast who can't wait to take your furry friend out for a stroll. His boundless energy and love for the outdoors will bring a sense of excitement and enrichment to your dog's day, ensuring a fun and fulfilling walk every time.
We already adore him, and we're confident that you and your furry friends will, too. Get ready for Chris to work his pet-loving magic and become your pet's new best friend in no time!
🐾 Chris is Pet First Aid and CPR Certified. He has completed his Fear Free Certification training.
Chris’ primary service area is Mishawaka, Granger, and South Bend. Chris is available for overnight care.
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Meet Shea! Shea is excited to join the Amber’s Pampered Pets crew of exceptional sitters! With a genuine passion for animals, she has a special place in her heart for caring for large pups while adoring all furry friends.
Her belief is that every pet deserves special attention and lots of love. Shea's approach combines fun and nurturing care, ensuring that pets feel safe, cherished, and happy while their owners are away. Her positive attitude and playful spirit create a joyful environment for any furry companion.
Eager to share her enthusiasm and dedication, Shea is committed to making sure your pets are not just cared for, but pampered and happy! She looks forward to meeting you and your beloved pets soon!
🐾 Shea is Pet First Aid and CPR certified
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Isabella has been around animals her entire life and loves caring for pets of all kinds. She has experience with everything from guinea pigs and birds to cats and dogs, and she feels right at home whenever she’s with animals. She also spent two years working in animal medicine, giving her valuable hands-on experience and a strong understanding of pet health and behavior.
She’s gentle, attentive, and always willing to go the extra mile. Isabella pays attention to the little details, enjoys learning each pet’s routine, and is always ready for a challenge when a pet needs a bit of extra patience or reassurance.
She treats every animal as if they’re her own, and your pets will absolutely love her!
Isabella is available for overnight care. Isabella is certified in pet CPR and first aid.