So what’s it like for a local business to play with the “big dogs?”
That is both a literal and figurative question for Fuzzies Pets, an Independence Township-based pet and grooming boutique retailer that opened earlier this year. The local retailers provides quality foods, treats and supplies to any furry, finned or feathered family member.
Fuzzies Pets carries unique items that are often both healthier and safer than other products in the marketplace. This includes a full range of organic food products. In addition, Fuzzies does not buy any food products from China or Mexico because of some questionable ingredients in some of those food products, said owner Kim Russell. Russell also sells an array of hard-to-find U.S. and Michigan made pet toys.
“Pet toys made in the U.S. are really hard to find but we have a small but great selection,” Russell said. “When we can, we want to support local businesses as well so we have Michigan-made products.”
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Fuzzies carries an array of products to for dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, other small animals and some fish, Russell said.
Russell has worked in the pet supplies retail industry for many years but decided to branch out on her own in an effort to provide high quality service and products. Although originally from Macomb County, Russell found the current location at 6535 Sashabaw Road in Independence Township and decided to open her first business in the heart of Oakland County. She soon moved with her family to Waterford to be closer to work. Any professional working at Fuzzies can special order items for customers to meet their specific need.
“It’s a really great community where people support local businesses and we get many regulars to come in all the time,” Russell said. “It’s hard to find the kind of service we provide at many big-box stores. We feel really comfortable in this area. We’ve even ordered pig food regularly for one family so we will go out of our way to meet your needs.”
In recent months, Russell has found an experienced dog groomer in Jenilee Hurford, and provides grooming services for one dog at time. Hurford will play and interact with the dogs, and the special attention prevents dogs from feeling stressed in a foreign environment, Russell said. Dog training is also provided to customers after hours in a dedicated space as part of the 3,500-foot retail store. These courses include advanced puppy classes and can include private training sessions.
Fuzzies also has developed a partnership with VIP Vet Services, a mobile veterinarian service that allows pet owners to schedule walk-in services such as shots, check-ups, fecal testing and other medical and preventative health services for their pets.
“It’s much more affordable than going to the local veterinarian,” Russell said. “And it’s also every convenient.”
As another service, Fuzzies hosts rescues and adoptions almost every weekend throughout the summer. Russell and her staff hold fundraisers for Oakland K-9’s, Michigan Humane Society, and other charities. The local retailer serves as a location for foster parents, dog walkers and dog sitters to network and offer their services as well.
Fuzzies is open Mondays through Wednesdays from 10-7; Thursdays through Saturdays from 10-7:30 and Sundays in the spring, summer and fall. Visit http://ift.tt/2fGkEp3 or call 248-297-5606 to learn more.
