While walking a client’s dog through Ely Country Park last week, Kayley Drewitt spotted something unusual tucked into the grass — a cardboard box sitting quietly beneath the trees.
As the owner of The Animal Ark Pet Services, Drewitt spends a lot of time outdoors with dogs, but this box was unlike anything she’d seen before.
“I was curious at first,” Drewitt told The Dodo. “When we got closer and I read the message on the side, I couldn’t believe it. I’d never come across something like that before.”
On the side of the box, written carefully in marker, was a note that read:
“I am too old to play with my favorite tennis balls now. But it would make me very happy to know that some younger doggies would have fun with them. Love from Jarvis.”
Drewitt was immediately moved. “It was such a thoughtful, heartwarming gesture,” she said.
The dog she was walking didn’t need much prompting. As soon as he saw the box, he dove right in, tail wagging, and picked out a ball to play with.
The pair spent the next while tossing and chasing, enjoying the surprise gift from a generous stranger.
Inspired by the kindness, Drewitt snapped a few photos and shared them on social media, hoping to thank whoever had left the box and to spread the joy with other local dog owners.
It didn’t take long for the post to gain attention — and soon Jarvis’ owner reached out.
Jarvis, a nearly 11-year-old cocker spaniel, has severe arthritis and can no longer chase balls like he used to. Knowing how much he loved his toys, his mom wanted to pass them on to younger pups who could still enjoy them.
The gesture not only gave joy to countless dogs but also brought people together.
Drewitt and Jarvis’ owner have now arranged to meet for a future walk — where Jarvis will get to see his favorite toys bringing happiness to the next generation of park pups.
“It’s such a beautiful full-circle moment,” Drewitt said. “Jarvis may not be able to play fetch anymore, but he’s still bringing joy — and soon he’ll get to see that for himself.”
