Building Community
Good for community building and allowing dogs freedom."
Peterborough Resident, Dog Park Survey 2025
Our Story
Peterborough is a town of nearly 6,000 residents and a remarkable number of dogs — yet we have no designated space for them to play safely off-leash or socialize with each other. Our Town Dog Park began as a grassroots effort by local residents who believe that dogs make communities healthier, more connected, and more joyful. A dog park would offer a secure, thoughtfully designed space where dogs can run freely, practice good manners, build confidence, and burn off energy, while their owners form friendships and strengthen community ties.
After studying available land, recreational needs, and environmental considerations, our committee identified the Marshall-Thomas Recreation Area at Cunningham Pond as a strong candidate site. The open fields, trail access, and existing recreational use make it a natural home for a future one-acre fenced dog park with dedicated space for large and small dogs. Throughout the planning process, we have prioritized environmental stewardship, wetlands protection, and coexistence with nearby wildlife and trail users.
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Our Mission
Dog parks are more than amenities; they support responsible pet ownership, reduce nuisance barking and pent-up energy at home, offer healthier social outlets for dogs, and create new points of contact among neighbors of all ages. Nationwide, communities that invest in dog parks see benefits across public health, public space activation, civic engagement, and even local business vitality.
Our mission and vision for the Peterborough Dog Park is simple: a safe, beautiful, and community-supported space that reflects our town’s values. We intend to fund construction and maintenance through donations, sponsorships, grants, and local fundraising — not town tax increases. This approach allows the park to be both accessible and sustainable over time.
Our Town. Our Dogs. Our Park.
As we continue to gather input and refine plans, we invite residents, dog owners, and non-dog owners alike to walk with us in shaping something that brings joy, connection, and outdoor life to Peterborough.
Snapshots of Our Town Dogs
Follow Our Journey from idea to build!