Poppy, my little Cocker Spaniel, is arguably the ultimate Country Bumpkin and Glamper.
She was born to thrive in the countryside and loves nothing more than getting out outside, exploring, then curling up in front of a fire to doze afterwards. In fact, that sounds like the perfect day on a glamping holiday!
I’m super proud of her right now as she has just passed her beginners obedience classes with Market Harborough and District Canine Society. She has always been pretty good (being such an intelligent breed helps) but she needed a better technique and a bit more discipline. So last year I enrolled in a 10-week class to re-master the basics. As we now move up into the advanced classes I will be working towards further confidence in her behaviour so I can take her on more holidays without worrying if she’ll settle or be a nuisance. She really will make the best glamper.
For me, getting a dog was the final step to embracing country life.
Having spent years in Cambridge after growing up in Harborough, I had become used to city-living and initially found it strange returning to my country roots. The pace of life seems slower here but I soon rediscovered to joy of having space and time and an abundance of fields and trees to explore. Having a dog is making me appreciate this even more.
I love the lifestyle that comes with having an energetic little hound. Having to get out, go for a walk and breathe plenty of fresh air becomes a great discipline; it brings a sense of achievement and freedom. Walking releases endorphins and helps us to clear our head; doing this every day is good for the soul as well as the legs. Poppy has taught me to be braver at exploring new places and more inquisitive with little encounters with nature. I have learnt to recognise (some) bird calls and animal tracks. I would never have expected to do that 2 years ago!
The bond between dog and owner is incredible
Those of you who have (or have had) a dog will be nodding in agreement right now. I didn’t ‘get it’ until I spent a year living with Lara and her dog, Charlie (who is Poppy’s dad). Of course, it’s not all plain sailing and her training can be hard work but it is totally worth it. That dog-human relationship is so much fun and brings so much comfort. I think everyone should get a dog and go glamping!
We understand that dogs are part of the family and that when you go on holiday, you want to bring them with you. Because of this it is important to us that your four-legged friend can be a glamper too. We are exploring how to be a great dog-friendly glamp-site – if you have any thoughts on this we would love to hear from you. Why not send us an email at countrybumpkinyurts@gmail.com with your ideas and experiences.
Until next time,
Jenny and Poppy
