About Us

Trail Hound Gear Shop was founded by Jay Schoon and his wife, Nancy King. Together they make "Trail Hound Gear Shop" brand dog gear at their home sew-shop. Their shop and continuing vision result from a love for the great outdoors and the belief that dogs should be included in the fun.

Together these experiences and their love of dogs (especially the rescued type) are what gave them the idea for opening The Trail Hound Gear Shop and drive their future vision of products for dogs and their people.

Jay Schoon is an avid outdoorsman who has been in the outdoor industry for over 19 years. His outdoor resume includes: 2004- Currently in the Outdoor Department of Mast General Store, Waynesville, North Carolina.   1999-2004 Owner of Trail Hound Gear Shop retail locations in Asheville, North Carolina.   1998 Wilderness EMT from SOLO.   1994-1998 Nantahalla Outdoor Center.   1993 NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School) Mountaineering Graduate.   1991-1993 Retail management at Back Bay Outfitters and Pandemonium Snowboard Shop.   1990 Sponsored work across the country on various environmental campagins for PIRG.

Nancy King is the originator of the "Firefly Studio" and a professional seamstress with over 17 years at the craft. Her resume includes: 2003-2009 Contract sewing projects from small to 5,000 piece runs as owner of Firefly Studio.   1992-2003 12 years in Alaska sewing expedition quality gear for Denali climbers, Iditerod dog sled racers, and fleece clothing for children and adults.