Young dog lovers and their four-legged-friends are preparing for a fun-filled summer in Rutland, as the annual Young Kennel Club (YKC) Summer Camp returns to Rutland Showground, for a third consecutive year.
Promising an action-packed week of activities, training and entertainment for both youngsters and their dogs, the YKC Summer Camp will kick off on Sunday 30 July until Friday 4 August and will see over 70 young dog enthusiasts descend on the showground, with their canine companions in tow.
The Young Kennel Club has been running since 1985, with the first Summer Camp taking place in 1992, and 2021 saw the Camp take up residence at the showground for the first time. This year, the YKC will be welcoming back children and teenagers between the ages of seven and sixteen, and with festival season in full swing, the week provides a perfect opportunity for them to enjoy a holiday with their dogs, whilst also keeping active, joining in with social events and taking part in plenty of training activities with their four-legged friends.
The week will include the opportunity to brush up on skills across a range of dog-focused disciplines, including agility, hoopers, scent work, obedience and heel work to music, plus an educational programme that will provide information about all things canine – from dog grooming and care, to The Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Training scheme, as well as a packed evening schedule for the humans, with a sports night, talent night, quiz night and many more. Senior YKC members will be on hand as team leaders, which not only provides them with the invaluable developmental opportunity to put their leadership skills into practice, the younger members also benefit from being mentored by older members, who have been involved with the YKC for many years.
YKC members must have a parent or guardian on-site at all times, but all the family are welcome to enjoy the fun, with onsite activities including daily bingo, afternoon tea, camp fun run and many more.
Helen Kerfoot, spokesperson for the Young Kennel Club said: “YKC Summer Camp is a real highlight of the summer, and provides our young members with the chance to not only develop their skills in the training and care of dogs, but to also have fun with their friends.
“Equipping youngsters with the knowledge and awareness of what it means to be a responsible dog owner is so important, especially at a young age, and Camp will offer not only that, but also opportunities to socialise, train and compete, with a varied week of fun and games. The skills, knowledge and friendships that are created at Camp last a lifetime and are so important at encouraging the next generation into the wonderful world of dogs.”
Parents of young dog lovers who may be interested in becoming a member of the Young Kennel Club should visit ykc.org.uk for more information.
