Santos Agustin and Jennifer Wong are the co-founders of Gone to the Dogs, a social enterprise dedicated to re-imagining thoughtfully designed and ethically sourced pet goods hand-crafted by inspiring makers locally and globally.

Santos and Jennifer started Gone to the Dogs in June of 2020 as an ecommerce site. Both designers with over 15 years experience working in the fashion industry, they recognized a need for more transparency and responsibility as well as an opportunity to serve the burgeoning pet market.

As a women-of-minority-owned business, they partner with a diverse group of women, and women-led groups who share at least one commonality - the lack of opportunity to harness independent income. Gone to the Dogs collaborates with makers from low-income and immigrant communities in the local NYC area, as well as marginalized communities in the Global South.

Each of their products are not only handmade but also sourced from recycled, reclaimed or renewable materials and natural fibers. Gone to the Dogs takes back what’s enroute to the landfill, utilizing compostable materials and prolonging the life of fibers.

“We were inspired to start our business because we love our dogs. And we know that others do too. Our greatest muses are Miles and Ollie, our rescue dogs. We love them from the depths of our hearts and believe all pets deserve to be a part of a happy home. A portion of our proceeds goes to animal rescues and other non-profit organizations making a difference in giving every pet a happy home.”

In June 2021, a year after launching their ecommerce platform, they opened the doors of their first brick and mortar location in Park Slope, Brooklyn. This coming June marks a year since opening their doors to the public.