a small pack on heart pond

a calm place
to be a dog

Walks, hikes, daycare and overnights in Chelmsford — with a small pack, real trails, and the same person every time.

small pack, by choice

licensed and fully insured

photos from the day

what we offer

every service, with the price next to it

about heart pond

one person, one small pack, one pond

After 25 years of teaching, I knew it was time for a new chapter. Teaching taught me how to care deeply for others, but it was dogs — and especially my dog, Friday — that brought me back to center. Friday was my anchor.

Now, I bring that same care and dedication to every dog I host.

getting started

how it works

01

reach out

Send a message through the contact form or the client portal. Tell me about your dog — breed, age, what you're looking for. I usually reply the same day.

02

meet and greet

Every new dog starts with a free meet and greet at Heart Pond. We make sure your dog is comfortable with the space, the pack, and with me before anything is booked.

03

book through the portal

Once we're a good fit, you book through PetPocketbook — my client portal. Schedule visits, leave notes, get updates and photos from the day.

Having a dog is a blessing, but caring for one can be challenging—especially when you have a full-time job and an energetic dog! We feel so fortunate to have found Nikki, who turns our dog’s routine walks into safe adventures. She is a natural pack leader: dogs love following her, and she cares for them with both affection and a strong sense of responsibility. Our dog has also stayed overnight with Nikki and clearly enjoyed her spacious home, big yard for running, and beautiful pond for swimming. If he could talk, I’m sure he would say that staying with Nikki is his own little vacation!

Cindy & Tai San

ready to bring your dog?

Every new dog starts with a meet and greet. No commitment — just come see if it's a good fit.