The Great Franchisee: Savi Iyer, Hounds Town USA, New Jersey

Since adopting her Labradoodle, Cocoa, Savi Iyer has been dedicated to helping pets in need. Now, the nurse practitioner is turning that passion into a new career with the opening of her Hounds Town USA location this summer. The 20-plus-unit, upscale doggie daycare franchise offers boarding, grooming, retail and even a pet taxi service.

We spoke with Iyer to learn more about her journey to franchising and what she has planned for the future. 

1851 Franchise: Tell us your story – what did you do before franchising?

Savi Iyer: I’m a nurse practitioner by trade. Once I got Cocoa, my Labradoodle, I started getting involved with nonprofit organizations like No Dogs Left Behind and wanted to spend more time with animals. I decided I wanted to open up a doggie daycare business to support pets on a larger scale, and that’s how I found Hounds Town USA.

1851: How did you initially find out about franchising and what was your perception of franchising before becoming a franchise owner?

Iyer: I knew franchising was an option as I had already dropped off my own dog at a franchise doggie daycare in the past. I thought franchising provided a streamlined outlet to start a business and liked the prospect of working in a team with like-minded individuals to support a mutual goal. 

1851: How did you decide you wanted to be a franchisee?

Iyer: Cocoa changed my life and made me realize I wanted to get more involved with animals. I thought a franchise would be a great way for me to support the pets of my community. 

1851: How did you perform your research?

Iyer: I did a lot of research on Google and looked at various franchise websites.

1851: Why did you pick Hounds Town USA? What excited you most about the potential?

Iyer: I loved Hounds Town USA, the name, the ideology and philosophy. I like how Hounds Town USA is available for everyone. Prior to the pandemic, there were not a lot of dogs in my town and now everyone has them. I know Hounds Town USA will fill a gap in the community and provide excellent daycare services for furry friends.

1851: What are your dreams with the business? What does the future look like?

Iyer: I’d like to open at least one more location to continue my involvement with pets.

1851: What advice would you have for others looking at buying a franchise?

Iyer: Follow the policies and protocols to see success.

1851: What do you do in your personal time?

Iyer: I love listening to music and walking with Cocoa. I also enjoy traveling, watching movies and spending time with my family.

ABOUT HOUNDS TOWN USA:

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 20 locations with plans to expand to 30 units before 2023. For more information please visit http://www.houndstownfranchise.com.