Native New Yorker Opens 1st Hounds Town USA in Brooklyn

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Press release: Hounds Town USA

Justine Wilson worked in corporate America for nearly a decade, but it wasn’t until she began volunteering at an animal shelter that she realized she wanted to open her own business focused on helping dogs. After seeing the resilience of Hounds Town USA throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Wilson saw an opportunity to come back to her home state and introduce the all-breeds welcome concept to Brooklyn.

“The Hounds Town USA model is straightforward and it works. As I began to learn more about Hounds Town USA and [owner] Mike Gould’s philosophy, it all just made sense. Oftentimes, people overthink animal care and they don’t let dogs just be dogs. Mike really seemed to understand what dogs need and how to take care of them, and his approach to dog care really resonated with me,” said Wilson.

Wilson was recruited by a global consulting company straight out of the University of Pennsylvania. As part of its strategy division, she was constantly on the road and lived her life on the go. After five years, she was beginning to burn out and accepted a job with a local consulting company in Chicago. That job gave Wilson the opportunity to settle in and gave her extra time to pursue outside hobbies and she began volunteering at a local animal shelter, PAWS. This is where Wilson’s interest in animal care and shelter life was really sparked.

After about four years of living and working in Chicago, Wilson accepted a new job that transferred her to New York. Originally from Long Island, the move really felt like she was returning home to spread some roots. Once Wilson was back in New York, the time felt right to start pursuing opportunities to start her own business and make an impact in her local community. Hounds Town USA’s commitment to culture and giving back encouraged Wilson to sign on as Brooklyn’s first franchisee. She opened Brooklyn’s first Hounds Town USA on November 30th with a dream to grow across the city.

“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Justine to the Hounds Town family,” said CEO Jackie Bondanza. “Justine’s love for animals and approach to pet care is perfectly aligned with our brand, making her a fantastic addition to Hounds Town USA. We are thrilled to watch Justine grow the business and serve the people and pets of Brooklyn.”

Dumbo’s Hounds Town USA is now open and accepting new clients at 57 Jay Street, Brooklyn, New York.

Since 2000, Hounds Town USA has offered a safe and welcoming environment for dogs to be dogs. With interactive doggie daycare, pet boarding, dog grooming, a pet taxi and retail services, Hounds Town USA’s unique town for dogs is home to the happiest dogs — and franchise owners — on Earth. Founded by former NYPD canine handler and commanding officer of the Nassau County Police Department Michael S. Gould, Hounds Town USA has grown to more than 30 locations with plans to open 20 more units before 2023.