Unemployment Leads Woman to Dream Job in Shelby Twp.

When Rene McGee was laid off from an administrative job, she decided to pursue a longtime passion. Her Kuts 'n Kisses Grooming & Boutique is a testament to her love of animals, and her desire to follow her dreams.

It was chance that led McGee to open Kuts 'n Kisses on March 30. After being laid off from an administrative position, she attended the Academy of Dog Grooming in Mt. Clemens. And with the help of her good friend Andrea Campbell, McGee created more than just a grooming salon. Kuts 'n Kisses aims to make the grooming experience one that is relaxing, fun and comfortable. 

McGee's husband Douglas also helped with the construction of all the shelves and countertops in the store. "I couldn't have done any of this without him," McGee said.

What makes Kuts 'n Kisses different from other grooming salons is that McGee and Campbell do not put the dogs in crates. McGee said most dogs feel much safer when they are not caged up. "It makes a world of difference. They hang out and play. They are nice and relaxed, and when their parents come to pick them up they're happy. They love it."

McGee said the name for the salon comes from the fact that she and Campbell literally spend a lot of time kissing and loving the dogs while they groom them. Their own dogs Rocky and Bella spend a lot of time at the salon. "They are our mascots," McGee said.

Above all, McGee wants people to know that she and Campbell truly love every dog that walks into their store. "It's not just a job to us," she said. "We have more of an open feel. The dogs actually come in with their tails wagging, because they know that we talk to them, and they get to play and have fun."

Anyone who has recently adopted a dog may come into Kuts 'n Kisses within two months and receive a free bath, blow, nails and ears, or half-off a full groom.

Kuts 'n Kisses also offers a boutique area with a variety of craft items for dogs. You can find clothing, collars, wooden name tags, beds, frames and gifts for dog lovers. All items are homemade by local crafters. 

Campbell also makes her own line of all-natural, homemade dog treats. These healthy snacks are sold in the store.

In addition to traditional grooming services, Kuts 'n Kisses also offers dog massages, facials and paw-dicures. Kuts 'n Kisses also provides grooming services for cats, along with a pickup and drop-off service, which is free to senior citizens living in the area. 

Every dog who goes to Kuts 'n Kisses gets a picture, treat bag and report card. On their birthdays dogs get a picture wearing a birthday hat, along with a birthday gift. 

Kuts 'n Kisses is open Monday and Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Earlier and later appointments are available upon request. Be sure to visit their website for more information.