Team of Humans

About Us

Professional Pet Care In Lakeland + Mulberry, Florida

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We do not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, breed, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, clients, volunteers, subcontractors, vendors, and clients.
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The ONLY Certified Professional Pet Sitters (CPPS) through Pet Sitters International + National Association of Professional Pet Sitters in Polk County!

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All Staff Certified through Fetchfind and PetSit Pro

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Veterinary Recommended + Access to Veterinary Care 24/7 – 365 

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First Aid + CPR Trained Pet Care Specialist

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Trained Veterinary Nurses On Staff.

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Bonded+ Insured + Workman’s Comp through BIC

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Members of National + Local Professional Pet Organizations: PSI, NAPPS, Florida Pet Services Association and Polk Professional Pet Services Network

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Active volunteers of SPCA Florida,Polk County Bully Project, ASA Service Dogs,  Girl Scouts + Boy Scouts

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Entrepreneur with Florida SBDC at USF (Small Business Development Center)

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Donate Regularly To Animal Rescues + Benefits through resources, financials, volunteerism and support through our PB+Joyrides Campaign!

About Us
ABAC Team 2019
Amber

Amber

Owner/Founder

Owner / Founder

 Hometown:

Alva, Fl

Pets:

10 chickens, 3 turtles, 2 fish tanks, hermit crabs, Giant Day Gecko + 2 dogs: a Corgi Mix- Cinco + a Saluki mix- Sookie

Interesting Fact:

I jumped off a 25 foot cliff into the ocean in Negril, Jamaica!

Biography:

Amber is the founder of Atta Boy! Animal Care. She been working in the animal field for over 18 years. She started in the field by working in the horse industry – stable hand and pet sitter. She then trained as a local Veterinary Kennel hand, Veterinary Assistant and then an Emergency Veterinary Technician for both small and large animals for over 13 years. She has a bachelors of Animal Science from University of Florida in Small Animal and Equine Management. When not thinking all things Atta Boy! – she loves adventures with her 2 human kids and husband, book clubs, growing edible fruit trees, and volunteering with Scouts as a Troop Leader, and goverance.

Pronouns:

She/Her

Frank

 Frank S.

Fleet Management + Development Coordinator

Coordinator

 Hometown:

Quebradillas, PR

Pets:

10 chickens, 3 turtles, 2 fish tanks, lizard, hermit crabs + 2 dogs: a Corgi Mix- Cinco + Saluki mix- Sookie

Interesting Fact:

I am currently perfecting my archery + knitting skills!

Biography:

Frank has been with Atta Boy! since the beginning as he is the husband of our Founder Amber in 2013! He has been in the animal field for over 10 years. He graduated from University of South Florida with an engineering degree and currently works full time at DOT, when not Pet Sitting. In his free time he enjoys gaming, tinkering, and going to Silvermoon Drive In!

Pronouns:

He/Him

April

Tonya T.

Manager/Pet Care Specialist

Manager

Hometown:

Bartow, Fl

Pets:

3 cats: Tux, Luna, + Carter, 4 dogs: Ellie- Border Collie, Remi-Dachshund, Dover-Teacup Chihuahua + Patty-Applehead Chihuahua and a 160 gallon freshwater aquarium.

Interesting Fact:

I love singing but cannot carry a tune!

Biography:

Tonya has been with ABAC since 2022. She has been a state employee with a variety of positions over the past 17 years. In high school she worked in a Veterinary Clinic and developed her love for animal care. She has 3 human children, and 7+ pets at home. When not working she loves going to car races around the state since her son competes!

Pronouns:

She/Her

lakeland pet sitter

Marissa G.

Assistant Manager/Certified Pet Tech

Manager / Pet Tech

Hometown:

Coatesville, PA

Pets:

2 dog: Marvel the Border Collie mix and Juice the Springer Spaniel,  1 cat: Halle

Interesting Fact:

I go hiking around different states, dock diving and scent work with my pups in my free time

Biography:

Marissa has been with ABAC since 2017. She been working in the animal field for over 15 years. She started in the field by working in the horse industry – stable hand and then trainer. She then trained as a Veterinary Technician for both small and large animals. She currently works at John k9 as their Assistant Manager previously worked as a  Veterinary Technician at Cleveland Heights Animal Hospital and Parkway Veterinary Emergency  When not working with Animals- she enjoys going to the beach, working out and doing Yoga!

Pronouns:

She/Her

Pet Sitter Lakeland Atta Boy! Animal Care

Erica P

Admin/Pet Care Specialist

Pet Sitter

 Hometown:

Clermont, Fl

Pets:

3 cats- Woo (Sophie Willow), Smol Smol (Seymour Beans) and Mousey Moo (Miss Mouse)

Interesting Fact:

I was a Girl Scout for over 13 years

Biography:

Erica has been with ABAC since 2024.  She attended USF and majored in Music Education, then taught middle school band for 11 years. She has always had a huge passion for animals and love all kinds of furry friends!Erica is also a  photographer when not working with Atta Boy. When not busy with her famliy, photography or pets she love to listen to audio books and spend time at the beach.!

Pronouns:

She/Her

Atta Boy! Animal Care Professional Pet Sitter Lakeland, Florida

Melissa S.

Certified Pet Care Specialist

Pet Sitter

Hometown:

Auburndale, Fl

Pets:

4 dogs: 3 Chihuahuas- Goose, Coby + Macy, and Akira, an Alaskan Malamute

4 cats: Millie, Penny, Simon + Timmy

Interesting Fact: 

All my pets are rescues!

Biography:

Melissa has been with ABAC since 2024.   When not pet sitting she works as a claim resp with GEICO, where she has been employed for 24 years!  She has pet care experience with dogs, cats , small animals and farm animals. At home she has 1 human child, who is now an adult, and 8 pets.  When not working she loves spots, concerts, visiting animal sanctuaries, traveling, going to yard sales, gardening and spending time with her pets + family.

Pronouns:

She/Her

Pet SItter Lakeland Florida

Ashley S.

Certified Pet Care Specialist

Pet Sitter

Hometown:

Burlington, NJ

Pets:

2 cats: Runner + Sizzle + 1 Chihuahua/Heeler/Huskey dog: Saint

Interesting Fact:

I am Certified in Scuba and was an instructor!

Biography:

Ashley has been with ABAC since 2025!  Ashley is a passionate pet advocate and has been working in animal care for over 10 years! She has previous experience in dog grooming + training, and previously worked at SPCA Florida in Lakeland, Zoos + Aquariums. She has previously owned many pets including reptiles, fish and small furry things! On her free days enjoys traveling, explore State+ National Parks. She shares her home with her human husband, and pets!

Pronouns:

She/Her

pet sitter dog walker dog anxiety dog in Lakeland, Florida.

Jenna W

Certified Pet Care Specialist

Pet Sitter

Hometown:

Orlando, Fl

Pets:

1 cat: Wednesday, 3dogs: 1 Goldendoodle: Mako, 1 Chinese Crested-Noodle + 1 Poochon: Zero

Interesting Fact:

I job shadowed with Disney’s Animal Programs at Animal Kingdom and got to help with a Surgical Procedure with a wild turtle!

Biography:

Jenna has been with ABAC since 2022.  She has Bachelors in Criminal Justice from Polk State College. She grew up with a passion for animals, spending a lot of time of her youth with Disney’s Animal Programs with where they cared from anything from Lions to Goats! She currently works at Cleveland Heights Veterinary as a Receptionist. When not working she enjoys playing instruments, and being with friends + family!

Pronouns:

She/Her

Jasmine Pet Sitter Lakeland

Jasmine S.

Certified Pet Care Specialist

Pet Sitter

Hometown:

Orlando, Fl

Pets:

4 cats: Grey, Jack Jack, Mama Kitty + Meow Meow

Interesting Fact:

I enjoy traveling to experience new people, food + places!

Biography:

Jasmine has been with ABAC since 2025. You’ll find her studying with a cat in her lap earning her stripes as a Graphic Designer. If you spot her at a party, she’s most likely to be socializing with the host’s pet. Enjoys cooking and baking for her family and friends-including her furry pals, with a signature peanut butter and oat cookie for the neighborhood dogs!

Pronouns:

She/Her

Dog Walker Lakeland, Fl

Ashley T

Certified Pet Care Specialist

Pet Sitter

Hometown:

Orlando, Fl

Pets:

1 cat: Wednesday, 3dogs: 1 Goldendoodle: Mako, 1 Chinese Crested-Noodle + 1 Poochon: Zero

Interesting Fact:

I job shadowed with Disney’s Animal Programs at Animal Kingdom and got to help with a Surgical Procedure with a wild turtle!

Biography:

Jenna has been with ABAC since 2022.  She has Bachelors in Criminal Justice from Polk State College. She grew up with a passion for animals, spending a lot of time of her youth with Disney’s Animal Programs with where they cared from anything from Lions to Goats! She currently works at Cleveland Heights Veterinary as a Receptionist. When not working she enjoys playing instruments, and being with friends + family!

Pronouns:

She/Her

pet sitter dog walker dog anxiety dog in Lakeland, Florida.

Alannah A.

Certified Pet Care Specialist

Pet Sitter

Hometown:

Auburndale, Fl

Pets:

All the ABAC Clients Pets!

Interesting Fact:

 I can identify many bird calls in Central Florida! 

Biography:

Alannah has been with ABAC since 2025.  She is currently working on her Bachelors in  Biology at Florida Southern College with a Pre-Veterinary Focus. She hope to be an exotic veterinarian in the future! She is also the professional development coordinator for the pre-veterinary society at FSC and  working on research related to animal behavior! When not being a student and sitter she is working on an open water scuba certification. In her free time she loves bird watching, writing, or playing video games.

Pronouns:

She/Her

pet sitter dog walker dog anxiety dog in Lakeland, Florida.

Tana  B.

Certified Pet Care Specialist

Pet Sitter

Hometown:

Boulder, CO

Pets:

1 dog: Terrier mix named Beau

Interesting Fact:

I am an environmental game designer

Biography:

Tana( pronounced TAN-a) has been with ABAC since 2022.  She has several years of experience in the animal care field and a strong passion for helping pets feel safe and loved. Her background includes hands-on work in veterinary environments and volunteer experience at SPCA Florida, where she’s cared for   animals and supported daily wellness routines. She’s currently pursuing her education to become a Licensed Veterinary Technician, with long-term goals of working in wildlife conservation.
When she’s not caring for clients’ pets, she enjoys spending time with her loved ones, being outdoors, and learning more about animal behavior and health.

Pronouns:

She/Her

pet sitter dog walker dog anxiety dog in Lakeland, Florida.

Jessie K

Pet Care Specialist + Dog Trainer

Pet Sitter

Hometown:

Lakeland, Fl

Pets:

1 dog: Rottweiler named Spawn and tropical fish

Interesting Fact:

I am a certified dog trainer, I also love to dirt bike and garden

Biography:

Jessie started with ABAC in 2024. She has been working in the animal field for over 15 years. She started in the field by working in the dog grooming business, then went on to gain experience in being a Veterinary Technician. She then trained as a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Animal Behaviorist, she currently works as a dog trainer with Jessie’s Perfect Pups who we refer to for in home pet sitting. When not working with animals- she enjoys spending time with her daughter and boyfriend. 

Pronouns:

She/Her

pet sitter lakeland

Kelsey A.

Payroll Specialist

Pet Sitter

Hometown:

Winter Haven, Fl

Pets:

All the Atta Boy! clients she cares for!

Interesting Fact:

I played softball from 7 years old until I was 20, and I can state the alphabet backwards.

Biography:

Kelsey has been with ABAC since 2021.  She loves all pets – especially when she gets to share yours! She graduated from Polk State College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice in 2020,and when not pet sitting works as a Payroll expert and wedding coordinator.  She enjoys going to the beach or being on a boat, visiting amusement/water parks, baking, and hanging out with family, and friends

Pronouns:

She/Her

Meet Your Professional Team

Each human of the Atta Boy! Animal Care team is an employee that goes through a 4 step demanding hiring process, is background screened, covered by our insurance + bonding + Workmans Compensation and has over 13 hours of Pet Safety + Knowledge Certifications

Continuing Education is provided to our humans on a consistent bases throughout the year. This ensures that each team sitter lives up to the standard set by our company to ensure your pets and home are the happiest and safest they can be.

We  HAND SELECT  a team of sitters for you and your pets needs. Having a team of employees to take care of your pets ensures we can cover all the dates you need, last minute requests, emergency backup  and allows our employees to have a quality work schedule without having to be available 7am-9pm 7 days a week- which means higher quality staff, long term staff, happy staff and constant care for your home and pets.

We have two types of Humans on Staff:

  • Pet Care Specialists: Pet Care Professionals that can handle all animal species!
  • Pet Techs TM  (Half Pet Sitter/Half Veterinary Technician!): For our high medical needs, special needs, senior or elderly clients

     Atta Boy! Animal Care  was founded in December 2013,  when our Founder Amber Van Denzen ( Hey, that’s Me!) saw an essential need for a client-oriented, trained, professional full-time Pet Sitting + Dog Walking pet care service company in Lakeland, Fl.

    The image of a company that was a family oriented, animal educated, welcoming and friendly with small + large pet families alike, which would focus on providing the quality of care and service anyone would want for their own home and furry family members came to my mind over and over. I used my 13 year career as a Trained Emergency Veterinary Technician and took my skills learned from my Animal Science Bachelors Degree from University of Florida to create such a company for YOU!

    My husband and I were constantly traveling as couple, and then during our adoption process and now family travels.We always were trying to schedule for our dogs to go to one of our parents home (and having to drive them over 2 hours away!) or ask a neighbor to watch our chickens and turtles. We also had a dog that was epileptic (he had seizures) and was on seizure dog medication that was required  to be given 3 times a day on a routine schedule- so having someone able to be available for those times and able to successfully give them medications was critical.  

    Eventually the drive, the having to constantly ask neighbors or family to watch the pets, and then coming home and our pups had been fed food that upset their tummy ( because they were so cute and begging for those treats, of course!),  medication missed by accident, plus if we were running behind or early and having to schedule pick up/drop off, and then of course all the extra hair in the car/their food/their toys/their beds – it got to be TOO MUCH!  

    We looked around for a professional pet sitter that had veterinary medical knowledge and that didn’t charge by pet -because with 3 dogs, 3 turtles, and 14 chickens- that just wasn’t going to be financially do-able. We soon realized MANY families and individuals locally in Lakeland, Mulberry, Bartow, and surrounding areas had the same needs! 

    …and that is exactly what Atta Boy! Animal Care has created! Hopefully you will find what you are looking for here with us at Atta Boy!- where we always say  “Happy Pets, Happy People!”

    – Amber V.

    Growth

    • December 2013: Opened our Virtual Doors for business. Our Founder Amber was the only staff person.

    • 2014-2016: The team grew from a solo operation to a team  + expanded from just South Lakeland to Central Lakeland.

    • 2017-2018: The company’s service area was able to increase and improvements in coordination, scheduling, and invoicing were brought on board with the implementation of the online client portal. Clients schedule appointments, communicate with the team, pay and much more directly through this easy and convenient site! GPS tracking and Daily Updates via email are added

    • 2019: Re-branded from our previous multi-animal and key design and slogan of “We are the KEY to your pets comfort + care” to a fun, current dog design with a slogan of “Happy Pets, Happy People!”

    • 2020: 5,000 visits completed! In the past 6 years of business we have cared for hundreds of pets- dogs, cats, horses, goats, geese, chickens, pigs, rats, snakes, fish, aquariums, turtles, geckos, chameleons, hamsters, guinea pigs, tortoises, and more! We look forward to adding you and your pets to the Atta Boy! family

    • 2021:12, 000 visits completed! We were able to offer all our Independent Contractor Staff – Employee status!
    • 2022:  16,500 visits completed! We  started our Mobile Dog Treadmill Gym!
    • 2023: 19,400 visits completed! Our Peanut Butter + Joyrides Non Profit Campaign launch was a success with over 1,000 of services of peanut butter donated,  donated over 100 runs to local rescue dogs
    • 2024: 23,756 visits complete! Our largest staff number- team of 14 employees!