Youngsters and their dogs returning to Rutland

Young dog lovers and their four-legged-friends are preparing for another fun-filled start to the summer holidays in Rutland, as the annual Young Kennel Club (YKC) Summer Camp returns to Rutland Showground, for a fourth consecutive year.

With an action-packed week of activities, training and entertainment for both youngsters and their dogs, the YKC Summer Camp will kick off on Sunday 28 July until Friday 2 August and will welcome over 80 young dog enthusiasts, alongside their canine companions.

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 summer, the YKC will welcome back children and teenagers between the ages of seven and sixteen, offering 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 a competition day which is new for this year, as well as agility, hoopers, obedience and heelwork to music. There will also be 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. YKC volunteers 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, camp fun run and many more.

Helen Kerfoot, spokesperson for the Young Kennel Club said: "We are looking forward to welcoming our members to YKC Summer Camp, both new and those returning once again. It is a real highlight of the summer, and helps to equip young dog lovers with the knowledge and awareness of what it means to be a responsible dog owner.

"Of course, there will also be plenty of fun and games, and opportunities to socialise, train and compete, as well as gain lifelong friendships."

Parents of young dog lovers who may be interested in becoming a member of the Young Kennel Club should visit thekennelclub.org.uk/ykc for more information.