Meet the Hearts Behind the Care at Cali's Cottage Veterinary Hospital

Cali is our family dog and the heart behind Cali’s Cottage. She has a Dogtorate in chasing squirrels and loves to adventure, but at the same time is incredibly calm, sweet, and always ready to make a new (human) friend. We named the hospital after her because we want it to feel the way she makes us feel: safe, loved, and completely at ease. Cali has a quiet confidence and a way of making everyone feel welcome and loved, whether she’s gently leaning in for pets or patiently waiting for treats. If you see her around the hospital, she’ll probably greet you with a wag and her soft, warm eyes that make all your stress melt away.

Dr. Jocelyn Schindler (previously known as Dr. Renfro) is the lead veterinarian at and owner of Cali’s Cottage Veterinary Hospital. A 2020 graduate of St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine, she has spent her entire career caring for pets and their people across Orange County. Her approach is rooted in connection by taking time to listen, to understand, and to treat every patient as if they were her own fur baby. Clients often say she feels like a trusted friend, blending clinical skill with genuine compassion and kindness. When she’s not at the hospital, you’ll likely find her out exploring new places with her pup, Cali, soaking in the sunshine or likewise at home enjoying a relaxing cuddle session with her sweet boy cat, Bubba, or a sporty hand wrestling match with her spicy tortie cat, Turtle.  Dr. Jocelyn is proud to help lead and build a practice rooted in empathy, communication, and exceptional care.

The man behind the doctor. Paul brings a background in finance and business operations to support the clinic’s mission of exceptional pet care and also to make sure the lights stay on. As UCSB Economics grad and a licensed CPA with years of experience in the financial world, Paul made the leap into veterinary medicine alongside his wife, Dr. Jocelyn Schindler. Though new to the industry, he has a deep love for animals and a passion for building a caring, trustworthy space for pets, their families, and his employees. Outside of work, you can find Paul hanging out with their dog and two cats (Cali, Turtle, & Bubba), spending time at the beach, or diving into a good book. He’s excited fulfill his lifelong dream of being an entrepreneur by helping grow a hospital that blends compassion, community, and clinical excellence.

With 23 years in veterinary medicine, Christine has had the opportunity to care for animals and their families in many different settings. She began her career as a veterinary assistant and kennel attendant, later working with the SPCA of Upstate New York, managing veterinary hospitals, and most recently working in emergency and specialty veterinary medicine.

Throughout her career, Christine has always believed that caring for pets means caring for the people who love them, too. She strives to treat every client the way she would want to be treated, with compassion, understanding, and genuine care.

Her goal is simple: to make sure you and your pet feel heard, supported, and cared for every step of the way.

Ella is a veterinary technician with over 8 years of experience providing compassionate care to animals of all shapes and sizes. Her love for animals started early in life and has only grown stronger throughout her career. At home, she’s a proud pet parent to four rescue cats and her beloved Pomeranian mix; Lolli—her “soul dog” and constant sidekick. Known for her calm presence and dedication, Ella strives to make every pet feel safe, comforted, and cared for. Outside of the hospital, she enjoys beach days, camping getaways, and discovering great food with her fiancé. Ella brings a positive spirit, a deep love for animals, and a genuine passion for veterinary medicine to everything she does.

Lauren is a Registered Veterinary Technologist with over 13 years of experience in the veterinary field. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Cal Poly Pomona in 2013 and has been dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality care to animals ever since. Outside of work, Lauren enjoys playing video games and relaxing at home with her three cats—Charlie, Griffin, and Angel Baby.

Stephanie has been a veterinary technician for 7 years and puts her whole heart into caring for every furry (and sometimes feisty) patient she meets. She’s a proud cat mom to BiBi and Toki—two sassy siblings she’s raised since kittenhood. Whether she’s comforting a nervous pet or celebrating a healthy checkup, Stephanie brings warmth, kindness, and a genuine love for animals to her work every day. When she’s off the clock, you can find her thrifting for hidden gems, catching live music, indulging in delicious food, or laughing way too hard with her loved ones and close friends.

Monica has 8 years of experience in customer service and 2 years of experience in the veterinary field. She enjoys working with people and their pets and takes pride in creating a welcoming and caring experience for every family she meets.

Her love for animals began at a young age, having always grown up with dogs and developing a genuine love for animals of all kinds. Monica is a proud dog mom to her 3-year-old Pitbull, Ace, who is a very special part of her life.

Outside of work, she enjoys watching movies, going camping, and getting creative with arts and crafts.