‘A place where tails wag and hearts connect’: Kilbride woman about to open the area’s first indoor dog park in Mount Pearl

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In the winter of 2019, while walking her German shepherd Xylo, a Kilbride woman discovered a void in the community that sparked a unique idea.

“When I was training and potty training Xy, I was doing so in the rain, snow, and fog,” said Danielle Gregory.

“During all this, I thought to myself, I can’t believe there is nowhere indoors to take your dog. That’s when it hit me.”

Inspired by her experience, Gregory is on a mission to change the lives of dog owners.

On Nov. 18, she’ll open the city’s first indoor dog park, providing a climate-controlled space where pets can play and socialize.

Inside the park

Located at 952 Topsail Road in Mount Pearl, Gregory selected this location to ensure easy access for all pet owners.

Having taken on much of the renovation work herself, including painting and preparing the space, Gregory said she is trying to ensure the park is a welcoming space.

The facility can accommodate 15 to 20 dogs of various sizes. There’s also a smaller indoor space with a dual purpose – on weekdays, it will operate as a doggy daycare, but it is also available for private sessions, catering to dogs with anxiety or difficulty in socializing.

Another feature that Gregory considers a standout is the addition of a fully-fenced outdoor area, accessible year-round.

“We’ve equipped the facility with everything a pet owner needs,” said Gregory.

“We are including play equipment as well as agility equipment. We’ll even have equipment akin to what kids use outdoors, something that they can run and jump around on.”

‘I wanted something different’

After deciding to open her indoor dog park, Gregory encountered several challenges.

“Our location used to be a used car lot, so we needed to make sure everything was safe,” said Gregory.

Another challenge was securing the necessary permits and licenses.

“It was a bureaucratic process that required a lot of time and patience,” she said.

Gregory also faced another hurdle: a desire for a career change.

“I was working as an office administrator, but I wasn’t fulfilled. I knew I wanted something different, and I was tired of the desk job,” said Gregory.

Her career dissatisfaction became a driving force in her decision to open her new business.

‘Thrive together’

With a deep passion for animals, Gregory said she is well-prepared for her new venture.

Gregory’s qualifications extend beyond being a pet owner – she’s also completed many pet care and training courses – and she believes her facility is what pet owners need.

“I want this place to be a home away from home for dogs. I’ve been in the shoes of pet owners who face challenges, and I know what dogs and their owners need,” said Gregory.

She plans to introduce training and obedience classes to help pet owners develop strong bonds with their animals.

“My dream is to create a community where dogs and their owners can thrive together,” said Gregory.

Offering a unique opportunity

Before putting her full effort into the dog park, Gregory operated a pet care service where she walked and cared for the pets of people with busy schedules.

For Cathy Hussey, this meant having a reliable companion for her dog, Piper.

Hussey said Gregory’s pet care services played a crucial role in her life.

“I knew after my car accident that I was facing back surgery. I needed someone, and Danielle was there,” she said.

Hussey relied on Gregory’s services for two years and is now looking forward to the dog park opening, as it is offering her a unique opportunity.

“It is giving me a chance to reconnect and have one-on-one playtime with my dog again,” said Hussey.

Flourishing together

Gregory says the upcoming grand opening of the park has ignited a sense of eagerness among pet owners.

“People have been saying they are excited for this, and I want this indoor dog park to be a place where tails wag and hearts connect,” said Gregory.

“Together, we’ll create a community where dogs and their owners flourish, a place where lifelong memories are made.”