Second Place at Crufts!!
We are incredibly proud to celebrate
Christine Anderton
for achieving
2nd place in
Poodles at Crufts 2025!
Your talent, dedication, and passion for grooming shine through, and this achievement is truly well deserved. Congratulations on this amazing accomplishment!
HISTORY OF CRUFTS
Crufts is one of the largest dog events in the world. No longer purely a dog
show, Crufts celebrates every aspect of the role that dogs play in our lives.
It has changed in ways that couldn’t possibly have been imagined when the
show was set up in Victorian times by the late Charles Cruft. Although it was a
very different event in 1891, Charles Cruft was a great showman and would
surely have enjoyed the size and scope of the event today, which is an
essential date in any dog lover’s calendar.
Crufts is ultimately a celebration of all dogs. It celebrates working dogs, which
are fit and healthy enough to perform the jobs for which they were originally
bred, such as those in the Gamekeepers classes and those participating in
displays including the West Midlands Police Dogs. The show hails hero dogs
through The Kennel Club Hero Dog Award, and crossbreeds are honoured
through the final of the Scruffts Family Crossbreed of the Year competition.
Rescue dogs are celebrated in the rescue dog agility competitions and the
speed and agility of dogs is clearly seen in ever popular competitions
including flyball and heelwork to music.
For prospective dog owners and dog lovers, Crufts is a prime opportunity to
speak to breed experts about how to responsibly buy, rescue, train and enjoy
life with your dog. The Discover Dogs booths offer a chance for potential
owners and dog fans to encounter hundreds of different breeds of dog,
including some they may have never heard of before!
And of course, with hundreds of trade stands selling anything and everything
for dogs and their humans, it is also a four-day shopping extravaganza.
Read more about how it started at Crufts.org.uk
People we met at Crufts 2025!
Team Absolutely Animals!
Christine Anderton
Christine Anderton has dedicated her life to the art of pet grooming. Starting her journey at the young age of three in a salon, she has since honed her skills and developed a deep passion for animals, particularly dogs and cats. Since 2010, she has actively participated in grooming competitions, earning recognition and respect within the industry.
Christine has been an integral part of Absolutely Animals almost since its inception. Through years of dedication and perseverance, she has risen through the ranks of professional grooming, ultimately earning a coveted place on Groom Team England—a testament to her expertise and commitment. Today, she plays a crucial role as manager, head tutor, and groomer at Absolutely Animals, where she mentors aspiring groomers and ensures the highest standards of care.
Beyond her professional achievements, Christine is a devoted owner to three Standard Poodles—Etti, Kendra, and Aria—who serve as both her companions and, at times, her grooming models.
Nicole Whittle
Nicole Whittle has been a valued member of Absolutely Animals for the past six years, bringing passion, skill, and a deep love for animals to the team. With a special interest in both dogs and cats, she is dedicated to meeting their grooming needs with care and expertise.
Nicole has successfully completed her Level 2 and Level 3 Dog Grooming qualifications, demonstrating her commitment to mastering the craft. In addition, she holds a Level 3 Teaching Certification, enabling her to share her knowledge and help train aspiring groomers.
Her positive attitude, friendly demeanor, and willingness to help make her a favorite among clients and colleagues alike. Whether she’s assisting in the salon or preparing and styling dogs for Crufts, Nicole approaches every task with enthusiasm and a smile.
With her growing expertise and unwavering dedication, Nicole continues to be an integral part of the Absolutely Animals team, ensuring pets receive top-quality care and styling.
