CrimSon the Cavapoo
Our goal is to amplify the BLACK voice in the pet industry by encouraging diversity & inclusivity ?
02/22/2024
We’re STILL talking diversity and what exactly it means in relation to the pet industry and community. But before we move forward, I wanted to highlight a few truths about diversity in the pet industry that should be discussed. I already know a few of these truths will “shake the table” but the truth isn’t always pretty or comfortable; and we cannot move forward if we’re uncomfortable voicing the realities of power and privilege and the role they play in change.
Looking forward to hearing your thoughts on this one! And please SHARE, SHARE, and SHARE some more. Every share helps our page and more importantly, expands the reach of an important discussion that affects us all.🫶🏽
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02/20/2024
As promised, we’re taking a deep dive into diversity and its impact on the pet industry. What does diversity mean? Why is it important? What can diversity bring to the pet industry? What does the industry look like without diversity? How can you begin advocating and demanding diversity in the pet space?
There are so many aspects and sub-topics related to diversity that I couldn’t fit everything into one post, but stay tuned for a smaller multi-part series about diversity that will be included in our larger series on DEIAB.
The focus should be on the content and not this caption, therefore I’ll stop here and encourage you to read, share, and of course let me know your thoughts in the comments. I’m always open to other ideas or perspectives I may have missed, so please don’t be shy about sharing your own knowledge. We don’t gatekeep over here! 🤎✊🏾
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02/15/2024
This is one of my favorite posts (turned series) that I’ve put together for these main reasons:
1. I’m passionate (read: obsessed) with diversity and inclusion strategic plans and their benefits
2. Although I’m posting during BHM, this information will always be relevant and valuable. Furthermore, it doesn’t just apply to Black folks. The lack of diversity and inclusion in the pet industry affects all marginalized groups, therefore it should resonate with a larger (and diverse) audience.
As a Black woman entering the pet space, it was blatantly obvious that there was/is an immediate need for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Belongings (DEIAB) initiatives. DEIAB are more than concepts created to incentivize change. When executed authentically, DEIAB can amplify a pet business or community’s success for years to come. Creating a space for open dialogue and prioritizing principle over profit are first steps. To make meaningful progress, it’s crucial to identify roadblocks, such as explicit and implicit biases, and develop practical action plans that prioritize DEIAB initiatives.
I hope that this can serve as one of many conversations that we’ll have to examine the role and power privilege plays in the pet industry, while unlearning divisive behavior. Through acknowledgment of the inequities and a commitment to change, DEAIB can transition the pet industry into a space where every voice is not only heard, but empowered. We can shape a future where DEIAB is not merely an ideal but an intrinsic part of our identity.
In the next week, we’ll discuss what diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and belonging mean on their own and their impact and role on the pet industry as a strategic framework. This is only part one of a six-part series. Stay tuned!😉
You know the routine – share this post with your networks so that we can diversify and expand the conversation. And as always, leave your thoughts and questions in the comments.
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01/15/2024
Happy birthday Dr. King!
On what would’ve been your 95th birthday, we continue to honor and be inspired by your innate ability to speak to and for the oppressed.
In putting together this post, I wanted to include quotes that could speak to both humanity and the animal community. And as a reminder – especially in today’s climate – oppression for one of us is oppression for all of us. Don’t let that go over your head. The oppression of our brothers, sisters, and animals worldwide is OUR oppression, whether you choose to acknowledge this fact or not.
For those who say they oppose injustices, are you referring to ALL injustices? Because there’s no injustice or movement more important than the other. We can’t choose one injustice to address and ignore the others. Social justice reform will never be effective if we pick and choose who and what we stand up for. All struggles in the pursuit of social justice are equally important to acknowledge and support. This includes animal rights and advocacy.
Please let me know if there’s a quote that speaks directly to you. Or feel free to share your favorite MLK quote that I may not have included in the comments. And if you’re inclined, share this post or the quote that resonates with you most – because although we are celebrating Dr. King’s birthday today, his impact is applicable every single day of the year and deserves to be honored as such. Whether you share this post today, tomorrow, or next year – the message remains the same🫶🏽
Quotes derived from:
https://www.womansday.com/life/g38735713/martin-luther-king-jr-quotes/
https://www.oprahdaily.com/life/relationships-love/g25936251/martin-luther-king-jr-quotes/
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02/08/2023
If you’re a Black pet parent or professional, I KNOW you’ll be able to (unfortunately) relate to these first-hand accounts of the blatant racism and discrimination we face as the marginalized population in this almost $300 BILLION dollar industry.
I know there will be a few people that come across this post and say that they’ve never racially profiled a Black pet professional or parent. And my response will be, “well good for you because it shouldn’t be happening at all.” Please don’t minimize someone’s experience just because you haven’t participated. Are you speaking up when you hear or see instances of discrimination? Are you supporting racist businesses? Do you even care if a business is racist? If you’re pet influencer or creator, are you paying attention to if the brand collaborates with diverse creators? Are you sharing opportunities with Black pet creators and professionals? Are you speaking up with Black pet creators are offered less compensation? Are you just saying you’re an ally but remain silent behind closed doors? We see you and know what it is so no need to be fake. I’d rather know someone isn’t for the cause and they stand tall in their ignorance than to waste my time thinking you’re legit only to find out later that you’re silent and complicit. Miss me with the BS.
This post applies to every single pet owner, creator, and professional in the industry. Diversity is not just a Black community problem or initiative. You should want to be a part of a diverse and inclusive community. We’re not there yet but having these uncomfortable yet necessary conversations is one of many baby steps in the right direction.
Of course these examples are not exhaustive, so if you’ve heard of or experienced other encounters, please share your stories in the comments so that I can include a few in part 2!
This is a post you definitely want to save and share as it is a reminder to the hurdles we face trying to care for pets AND it serves as a wake-up call to those claiming to be unaware of what’s really going on.🙃🫶🏽🤞🏾
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02/01/2023
Black History Month is here and even though we celebrate Blackness year-round, I love using this time to highlight the greatness of my people and community.
What I love even more is the knowledge I’ve obtained and been able to impart about the intersection of the pet industry and Black history. If you’ve been around then you know I frequently discuss the lack of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within this marginalized space – and since starting this page, I’ve been working to dispel stereotypes and combat the bias and discrimination that often plagues the pet industry. I’ve made it my mission to amplify the Black voice in the pet space. It is my hope that our brand and message will bring light to the importance of implementing a diverse and inclusive strategy within the pet realm.
But, we – as in the Black community – cannot do it alone. We need allies to step up, acknowledge the issue, and want to genuinely (emphasis on the “genuine” because performative behavior is a waste of everyone’s time) find ways to address the divisiveness Black creators, pet owners, professionals, and business owners often face in the industry.
This is why I put together this post. It is important we all understand the backstory of Black History Month, this year’s Black History Month theme (Black Resistance), the intersection of Black history and the pet industry, and ways to support the community through research and having the necessary uncomfortable conversations.
Don’t forget to share this post and save for later! Learning and conversing is a continuous journey. 🫶🏽✊🏾💛
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12/25/2022
My greatest gift and blessing🥹🎁🤗🎄
Happy Holidays everyone! 🫶🏽
- Tia & CrimSon
[ID: reddish-brown cavapoo puppy sticks out his tongue while sitting on couch with a lumberjack patterned cover. Red and white gift boxes are sitting next to the puppy.]
05/31/2022
As you know, we pride ourselves on advocating the importance of diversity in the pet community. May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AAPI) and I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge some of the amazing AAPI pet brands and businesses that continue to enhance and advance the pet space.
You’d be surprised to learn how many popular pet brands are AAPI-owned. Whether you’re in search for toys, treats, or anything in between, this listing of AAPI pet brands and businesses is a gem! Be sure to save this post, but more importantly, please SHARE so that others can be aware that these businesses exist and extend their support.
It is IMPERATIVE that we support businesses in our communities. Here’s a good starting point. Shop
Episode 13 is here with the one of the best dressed and talented groomers in the game, Ashley aka . Ashley is a master stylist, mentor, educator, model, and the true definition of Black excellence! In this episode we discussed:
- developing and mastering her skills in China using the Asian grooming technique
- the lack of diversity and struggles of being Black in grooming
- people wanting to not pay groomers what they’re worth and the harm negative energy brings to the community
- never settling and always wanting to give your all to your craft
- her plans once she sells her grooming salon
and so much more! Ashley is a go-getter with aspirations and the vision to make it all happen because she’s dedicated to her mission. She wants to be a powerful voice in the community and build a legacy. Ashley is even planning to open her own nonprofits and work with the criminal justice system to set up pet programs in the jail and prison facilities. I am in awe and honored that I got a chance to chop it up with a Black woman putting the pet industry on the map. We love her and know you will too (even more) after this interview!🤎
*SAVE | *SHARE | *FOLLOW for more valuable content and interviews!
Episode 12 is here with the owner of one of the most popular grooming salons in NYC, Melissa of . With over a decade of experience, Melissa is a wealth of knowledge about the trials and tribulations of building a business — especially as a Black woman in an industry with very little diversity. provides grooming, boarding, daycare, and even has a product line (check out their website). The Bark Shoppe is essentially a one-stop-shop to properly care for our pups, making it extremely attractive and convenient for the average pet parent. In this episode we discussed:
- emptying her savings and opening The Bark Shoppe within 90 days
- the importance of organic growth, word of mouth, and quality work
- the plight of the Black founder
- investing in human capital and building a reliable team
- the role diversity plays in the grooming industry
- how we focus on the negative rather than celebrating our positives and the wins
- how to manage people and how it plays a vital role in your business’ success
- building a community of future groomers
and so much more! Melissa is an open book — she talked work the good, bad, ugly, and great of her experience thus far. Whether you’re in the grooming business or not, listening to this conversation will motivate anyone to take that leap of faith in pursuing their dreams. Melissa told us that it took 10 years to build a start up. Can you imagine what she’ll do in the next 10? The groomers that will learn her unrelenting worth ethic and be witness to her devotion to her craft…man LISTEN. Black women are the backbone of society for a reason and Melissa’s story is proof! 🙌🏾
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Episode 11 is here with one of my favorite dog dads, Damon Smith aka Mr. Hey Now! has been on the scene long before becoming a dog dad, but the world has grown an even greater appreciation for him through the bond he’s developed with his puppy, EJ. Coming from humble beginnings, Damon has created a life for himself and puppy that has us all on awe. From EJ getting her nails done to the fly outfits she has on daily, Damon and EJ are the dynamic duo we never knew we needed! In this episode we discussed:
- how a promise to his mother to take care of her dog changed his life
- growing up in the streets of St. Louis as a Black man
- how the responsibility of a pet keeps him out of trouble
- the stereotypes of pet ownership and how he’s broken down those barriers
- his dream of purchasing an RV and traveling the country with EJ
- owning his own shop and creating merchandise
- how he doesn’t consider himself a content creator and how he’s just blessed that his life with EJ resonates with the rest of the world
and so much more! Let’s not forget to mention that he’s an author and artist (his music is 🔥🔥🔥). “I Got My Dog in the Boof” is one of my favorites, so be sure to Google “Mr. Hey Now” and tap in. Please listen up as he spits game and teaches us all so much through the testimony of his story. Damon aka “Mr. Hey Now” is always striving to win and we’re grateful to witness his evolution — grateful to see a Black man taking the pet industry by storm without having to fold. He’s just been himself and that’s been more than enough 🤎✨
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Episode 10 is here and it is featuring Calvin Tucker aka . To be honest, I don’t even want to give a long recap of what we discussed because I wouldn’t be able to do our conversation justice. Calvin is so amazing all around; every person who comes in contact with him is in awe of his passion and mission. His life changed on November 15, 2015 when he rescued his cat, Henry — and he has made it his life goal to rescue and find GOOD homes for as many animals as he can. He doesn’t take off a day. As you’ll hear him say, “I’m out here 365 days a year, 366 in a leap year.”
Calvin needs a Ted Talk because he is an inspiration and the true definition of Black excellence. This convo is a must listen, especially for those like myself who aren’t as knowledgeable about the animal rescue space. It is worth every minute of your time, I promise 🤞🏾🙌🏾✨
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Episode 9 is here and it is featuring Jerri of ! As a Black woman in the dog training world, Jerri has built her brand on teaching dog parents how to train their dogs. She believes in creating a realistic lifestyle approach for anyone who seeks to take their dog everywhere they go. In this episode, we discussed:
- Jerri spending her life around animals, but growing a special affinity to dogs
- how she gravitated to the training and behavioral lifestyle
- her experiences with diversity in the training world
- the importance of dog training being approachable and AFFORDABLE
- how pet ownership expenses often exclude people of color
- how talking about diversity should not be limited to people of color
and so much more! Jerri’s humble beginnings and years of experience have turned her into a wealth of knowledge about how important it is to create a realistic training lifestyle that fits the modern day dog parent’s everyday life. There is no cookie cutter way to train our dogs and Jerri’s approach makes training feel relatable and fun. Listen up!
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Episode 8 is here and it is featuring , founder of ! As a Black woman in the equestrian space, Caitlin is a trailblazer who has set the bar high through her work. In this episode, we discussed:
- Caitlin’s love of horses and other animals since childhood
- , Caitlin’s nonprofit that encourages children to read by using horses as an incentive
- growing up around Black equestrians
- the acceptance of Black equestrians with different hairstyles
- how to support Black equestrians
- going on a spiritual journey with her new horse
and so much more! Caitlin is about doing the work and using her love of horses to inspire greatness, which is obvious — especially through her nonprofit. Her energy is so inviting, I’m so glad we got a chance to chat!
*SAVE | *SHARE | *FOLLOW for more valuable content and interviews!
Episode 7 is here and it is featuring , the creator of ! As a Black woman in the equestrian space, Dez has created her own lane through her love of ponies and horses. In this episode, we discussed:
- how Dez got into the equestrian space
- how using scientific-based training is important
- the lack of diversity in the equestrian world
- discovering the Black equestrian network
- being outspoken in a space where we’re often quiet
- putting the welfare of horses first
and so much more! Dez is so dope and brings a unique and poppin’ perspective to the equestrian and pet space. She’s such a vibe! ✨
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Episode 6 is here and it is featuring , CEO of Beaux & Paws and a pet shelter advocate! Sir Darius has accomplished so much within the pet space at such a young age and his ability to understand the importance of advocating for pets is admirable 🙌🏾 We discussed:
- the motivation behind creating Beaux and Paws
- how Hurricane Harvey inspired him to get into pet advocacy
- his passion in donating bow ties to animal shelters and how they’ve helped dogs get adopted
- what he’s learned being a young entrepreneur
- how lack of knowledge about pet advocacy plays a role in diversity within the pet space
and so much more! I cannot thank Sir Darius enough for imparting so much wisdom on us about pet advocacy. His story is so inspirational, especially to young people wanting to make a different in the pet industry. Kudos to him being a visionary and role model!
*SAVE | *SHARE | *FOLLOW for more valuable content and interviews!
Episode 5 is here and it is featuring Chaz of , a Black woman-owned online store with curated modern by emerging brands worldwide! We discussed:
- why she created
- the lack of representation in the pet industry
- biases in pet adoption and it’s connection to race and diversity
- the importance of supporting other Black-owned brands and businesses
and so much more! Chaz provided a unique perspective from the retail space and reaffirmed how important it is to support our own!
*SAVE | *SHARE | *FOLLOW for more valuable content and interviews!
Episode 5 is here and it is featuring Chaz of , a Black woman-owned online store with curated modern by emerging brands worldwide! We discussed:
- why she created
- the lack of representation in the pet industry
- biases in pet adoption and it’s connection to race and diversity
- the importance of supporting other Black-owned brands and businesses
and so much more! Chaz provided a unique perspective from the retail space and reaffirmed how important it is to support our own!
*SAVE | *SHARE | *FOLLOW for more valuable content and interviews!
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02/21/2022
We are ending Black History Month with the bang of all bangs!🔥 It is almost impossible for me to articulate how amazing this series has been. I’ve learned so much about the transcendent work that we are doing in the pet industry and I’m filled with so much pride that I am able to share these inspirational conversations with everyone. As always, Black excellence remains the standard and the impact we are making in this space is changing the industry.
We will be going live almost every day for the rest of the month with the following guests:
Please be sure to SAVE and SHARE this post to spread the word….and I promise that all the replays will be posted!
Thank you again for all of the support this month, but this is a marathon 🏁 that will not end. I will continue highlighting my people and our greatness in the animal/pet space! ✊🏾✨
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Episode 4 is here and it is featuring one of my favorite people that I’ve met in the industry, Brian Taylor aka . He’s the owner of and recently celebrated his 10 year grooming anniversary! But don’t get it twisted, his knowledge goes far beyond grooming and he shared so much game during our conversation. We discussed:
- how he got started as a groomer
- the importance of content creation and adding value to the pet community
- giving back to our communities
- omnipresence and how it can impact your social media
- using LinkedIn to make connections in the industry
- the importance of print media and how you can use it to gain exposure
- his accomplishments beyond grooming
- future plans
and so much more! Again I say, Brian spit GAME! Do not sleep on this chat because the knowledge he imparted is of benefit to all of us trying to make a lane in this industry. Thanks B!😉
*SAVE | *SHARE | *FOLLOW for more valuable content and interviews!
I know y’all have been waiting for this replay, so here it is! Episode 3 of our “Black Excellence in the Pet Industry” series featured Noah of (& Moose). We discussed:
- how he got started as a creator
- mental health in the Black community
- being transparent and vulnerable and how that can impact the lives of others
- coming out of our comfort zone
- the importance of inclusion and diversity as a Black creator in the pet industry
- showing the relationship between owner and pet rather than just pet
and so much more! I can’t thank Noah enough for his time and wisdom. We will definitely be chatting again so stay tuned! 😉
*SAVE to watch/listen later
*SHARE so that your audience can also watch/listen and learn about this important topic
*FOLLOW for more amazing content and interviews!
Episode 2 of our “Black Excellence in the Pet Industry” series featured Ron Holloway of , a food truck for dogs! We discussed:
- humble beginnings
- life as an entrepreneur
- the joy of doing something you love and understanding the impact you’ve made in other people’s lives
- the importance of inclusion and the lack of diversity in the pet industry
- future plans
and so much more! Thank you again to Ron for providing invaluable and impactful insight to the conversation of diversity. He dropped so much game that we all need to hear. Can’t wait to chat again!
If you missed last week’s IG Live with then check out this replay. He kicked off our “Black Excellence in the Pet Industry” series and dropped so much game! We discussed everything from the role our dogs have played with our mental health, diversity in the pet space, the true tea on *another platform’s* creator fund ☕️🙃, and ways to grow our accounts through engagement and analytics. Josh has such an inspiring story and I am honored he shared his journey with us. It is worth watching our entire chat🤎
Let’s ignore the fact I was choking on water at the end and could barely speak 😩. This was live and s #%* happens! 😭
02/05/2022
I am still in awe of last week’s all-star guest list and this upcoming week, the marathon continues! 🏁
The conversations we’ve had about diversity, inclusion, mental health, content creation, and overall success has been invaluable and I cannot thank our guests enough for lending their time and wisdom!🤩
This week’s guests:
(hosting over on )
I’ll be uploading the replays on our IGTV, but in the meantime, be sure to save and share this post so everyone can tune in!🤎 There will also be a reminder on our main page you can click on and IG will remind you when the interviews are about to start😉
01/17/2022
Martin Luther King Jr. would’ve turned 93 on January 15th. Betty White would’ve turned 100 today, January 17th. We’re honoring them both today — on MLK Day — which may seem odd to some, but I believe there is space to do both without diminishing either. Here are pictures of Crim (taken last April) in his Golden Girls bandana made by a BLACK woman-owned business, . As part of our niche and brand’s identity, I believe it is important to honor Betty White for her unwavering support of animals/pets, while also highlighting one of my favorite Black-owned businesses. This is MY dream.
Below are some of my favorite MLK Jr. quotes that keep me grounded in my purpose, especially as I’ve embarked on this journey to promote diversity and inclusion in the pet space:
1)“There comes a time when people get tired of being pushed out of the glittering sunlight of life’s July and left standing amid the piercing chill of an alpine November.”
2)"There comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe nor politic nor popular, but he must take it because his conscience tells him it is right."
3)”Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter."
Which of these quotes is your favorite and resonates the most? Do you have another MLK Jr. quote that speaks to you? I’m really interested in everyone’s thoughts, so please feel free to be candid (& respectful) in the comments.
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