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Groomers around the world inspire us. Their passion for pets and business consistently set the bar for the industry, which is why we'll be featuring stories from VIGs - very important groomers - like you. This month's spotlight features Crystal Gause from Freeport, New York. 

GC: Tell us your grooming story. 

CG: My name is Crystal! I've had a passion for animals since I was a child and always wanted to be a veterinarian, but I gravitated toward grooming in 2005. 

At the age of 17, I graduated early from high school and went to Petco to seek employment in the grooming salon, but I was informed you had to be 18 to work there. So, I waited! After getting my job there in January of 2008, I trained as a groomer over the summer and graduated from my grooming program. 

I've worked at an animal hospital as a grooming salon manager, PetSmart and a few other private salons. This all prepared me for now, as I am the current owner of my own grooming business, Buttaz Puppy Cutz! And as a black woman who has dealt with many racial issues, it feels really great to not have to deal with a lot of the scenarios I've had to endure over the years due to the color of my skin. I'm simply a human who wants to make furry friends look and feel their best, and I'm really great at what I do! 

GC: What interested you in becoming a dog groomer? 

CG: I wanted to be a vet initially, but grooming is so much more satisfying. I love to make pets look and feel great! 

GC: Can you tell us more about Buttaz Puppy Cutz? 

CG: I started my business in 2020 during the pandemic and recently celebrated being in business for three years. I’m currently the only employee and do everything myself, and honestly, I like it like that! I love the freedom of being able to come and go as I please and not have to worry about a thing. Someday I’ll have a full staff, but at this time I’m comfortable doing everything myself. 

I usually see three to four pets a day because I groom one-on-one without any cages, so the pet has 100 percent of my attention the entire time. 

GC: What are the sacrifices and rewards that come with owning a grooming business? 

CG: I would say sometimes comfort is one of the main sacrifices I’ve had to deal with. You never know what type of client you are going to come in contact with. Some will like you, and some won’t. 

What’s most rewarding is when a client picks up their baby and is so excited to the point where the dog knows it’s beautiful/handsome. It’s even more rewarding after clients leave a great review of my business. I’m always excited when I get a new client so they can see the passion I truly have for this. It really makes my day! 

GC: Do you have a favorite breed to groom? If so, why are they your favorite? 

CG: My favorite breed to groom is definitely the Poodle. They are so elegant and fluffy, and their hair is so versatile. You can do many different styles! Plus, I own one, and she’s amazing. 

GC: What is your favorite thing about being a groomer? 

CG: Definitely seeing the reactions from my customers after I’m finished with their pet. They are always so thankful, grateful and happy. I love making both the pets and pet parents happy! 

GC: What is the best piece of grooming advice you've received? 

CG: Always learn to accept and appreciate constructive criticism. We are all in this field together to help each other, not to hurt each other. 

GC: What would you say to someone interested in becoming a groomer? 

CG: Take your time. You will not learn everything overnight. I’m almost 18 years into this field, and I still learn things every day. 

GC: Why do you choose to shop with Groomer's Choice? 

CG: Y’all have the best products and amazing prices, and the customer service is immaculate! 

Keep up with Crystal and Buttaz Puppy Cutz on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. 

Are you a groomer or pet professional? Want to be featured in a future Groomer's Choice blog post or magazine? Submit your grooming story!