The Hounds Town team celebrates the new Matawan location, along with founder Michael Gould (back row, with thumbs up). - HOUNDS TOWN
The Hounds Town team celebrates the new Matawan location, along with founder Michael Gould (back row, with thumbs up). - HOUNDS TOWN
Kimberly Redmond//November 10, 2023//
Hounds Town USA, a doggie day care franchise founded by a former New York Police Department canine handler, is launching its newest spot in New Jersey.
Located at 419 Route 34 in Matawan, the day care and boarding concept officially opened Nov. 4, giving area pet owners a new option for safe and reliable care of their furry friends.
Hounds Town Old Bridge-Matawan is franchised by Arushi Daggumati and Priya Patel, two business associates from Middlesex County who were drawn to the concept after seeing the brand’s commitment to exceptional pet care, as well as its flexible ownership model.
Daggumati said, “This exciting new venture will allow us to play a more active role in the community and build deeper relationships with pets and their owners. Priya and I are excited to elevate the level of pet care and services for the surrounding communities once we open our doors in November.”
Launched in 2000 by Michael Gould – a founding member of the NYPD canine unit, scent detection dog trainer and former commanding officer of the Nassau County Police Department canine unit – Hounds Town USA strives to offer doggy day care and pet boarding services that are safe and welcoming for all dogs—no matter their size, breed, age or disability.
Supervised by a well-trained staff, dogs can play all day with a group of canines that match their size and temperament for safe and fun socialization that provides both physical and mental stimulation. For cat lovers, Hounds Town offers specially designed, cat condos for overnight boarding as well.

Additionally, Hounds Town provides stress-free spa services, ensuring pet owners have the option to bring home a clean and refreshed pet. Select locations also offer a Pet Tax service, giving fur babies a way to get to and from day care.
Across the U.S., Hounds Town has nearly 50 locations, including five other facilities in New Jersey: Lodi, Fairfield, Hillsdale, Metuchen and Galloway.
In commenting on the opening of Hounds Town in Matawan, the company’s CEO, Jackie Bondanza, said, “Priya and Arushi have a real drive for delivering on our mission here at Hounds Town and that was apparent from the moment I met them. Their passion for dogs, coupled with their understanding of business and their desire to be a positive influence on their community will undoubtedly drive their success! We are lucky to call them townies and look forward to seeing what they can do.”
Doggie day care and wellness franchise Dogtopia is expanding its presence in the Garden State. Click here to read more.