FAQ's

A dog park provides a safe, designated space where dogs can exercise, socialize, and enjoy off-leash recreation while strengthening connections among dog owners and neighbors. It complements our town's existing recreational opportunities and creates a gathering place for people and their pets.

The Our Town Dog Park initiative is led by the Ad Hoc Dog Park Committee, a subcommittee of the Peterborough Recreation Commitee. It is a volunteer group formed to explore the creation of a dog park for Peterborough and the surrounding community.Working alongside residents, local organizations, and community partners, the committee has been gathering public input, evaluating potential locations, exploring funding opportunities, and developing a vision that reflects the values of our town. Our goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where dogs and their people can exercise, connect, and enjoy the outdoors together.

Potential locations will be evaluated carefully with consideration for accessibility, environmental impact, parking, safety, compatibility with surrounding uses, and community feedback. We are committed to a thoughtful process that respects Peterborough's character and natural resources.

Peterborough is fortunate to have wonderful trails and conservation land, and those spaces will always remain important. However, not every dog can safely be off leash on a trail. Puppies, senior dogs, dogs in training, dogs with limited recall, and owners with mobility challenges often benefit from a secure fenced area where dogs can run freely and safely. A dog park complements our existing outdoor spaces rather than replacing them.

We welcome community participation. Residents can attend Pack Happenings, complete surveys, contact us through the website, or speak with members of our group. Constructive feedback helps us create a better project for everyone. Drop us an email at ourtowndogpark@gmail.com

We will pursue private donations, sponsorships, grants, fundraising events, and community partnerships. We are committed to transparency and responsible planning as the project develops.

We are receiving 0 funding from the town and no tax dollars will be used. Our intention is to seek 100% funding through donations, grants, sponsorships, and fundraising efforts. We believe community projects are strongest when they are supported by the people who value and use them.

Successful dog parks rely on a combination of thoughtful design, clear rules, regular maintenance, and community stewardship. We anticipate working with volunteers, supporters, and local partners to help keep the park clean, safe, and welcoming.

While no final design has been selected, ideas may include:Secure fencing and double-gated entrancesSeparate areas for large and small dogsWater stationsWaste disposal stationsBenches and shaded seatingAccessible pathwaysNatural landscapingCommunity gathering areas

Many dog parks include separate spaces for large and small dogs to help create a safer and more comfortable experience for all users. This is one of the many design considerations we are exploring.

Like any recreational space, there will occasionally be activity and barking. Experience from other communities shows that dog parks are generally much quieter than many people expect. Most visits involve dogs playing, walking, and interacting under owner supervision.

Protecting Peterborough's natural beauty is a priority. Any future dog park plan would consider drainage, vegetation, wildlife impacts, waste management, and long-term sustainability. Community input and environmental stewardship will be important parts of the planning process.

Responsible dog ownership is essential to a successful dog park. Clear park rules, posted signage, community education, and a culture of respect help create a safe environment for both dogs and people. Many dog parks require owners to remain with their dogs, clean up waste, and maintain control of their pets at all times.

We think that The Pack That Plays Together Grows Together.We want to be intentional in how we grow. Pack Happenings are community walks, gatherings, educational programs, volunteer opportunities, and social events designed to bring dog lovers together while we work toward building Our Town Dog Park. They help us enjoy Peterborough's beautiful outdoor spaces, build friendships, exchange ideas, and create the sense of community that will make the future dog park truly special.

Because a great dog park starts with great people.Our goal is not simply to build a fenced area for dogs. We want to create a welcoming community where neighbors connect, friendships form, and people work together toward a shared vision. Every walk, conversation, volunteer effort, and Pack Happening helps strengthen the community that will one day call Our Town Dog Park home.