We often talk about (and to) our dogs, but rarely do they get the chance to take the full spotlight. So, as a special treat to end the year, here’s a quick-fire round with the Purdey dog in residence.
What’s been the most enjoyable part of the festive season so far?
Definitely the organic turkey breast, which we worked up an appetite for at Purdey at the Royal Berkshire festive shoot, racing through acres of scenic valley with plenty of like-minded dogs for company. My human roasted the bird on Christmas day, and the littlest human sneaked me a couple of roast potatoes under the dining table too. Woof!
What was in your Christmas stocking this year?
The stocking was full of delights, which I ripped into long before anyone else in the house was awake! I got a beautiful new braided leather collar, which is extremely comfortable – I’ll be sure to ask for the matching lead for my birthday, because who doesn’t love a well-coordinated outfit. Though, for everyday walks, I’m still very happy with my lightweight rope slip, which from the look on my human’s face, feels exactly like putting on an old pair of comfy pyjamas.
What was the best present you gave, and received?
For my best dog pal, I gifted a corkscrew stake – our sense of humour is quite dry, and he’s forever running off at speed chasing anything that moves. Yes, we all know this type of behaviour is ill-advised and terrible for our human’s reputation, but sometimes enthusiasm and instinct gets the better of good manners, no matter how hard we try. For my human, I gifted a pair of binoculars and a course of lessons at the Purdey shooting school, because lord knows his eyesight and aim needs all the help it can get.
In terms of the best gift I received this year – well, I was quite spoilt! I’m currently speaking to you from my new bed, which feels like I’m lying on a cloud. It’s wonderfully roomy with plenty of space to stretch my legs (especially when dreaming of bounding through my favourite estate in the Highlands). And it’s hand-made from the same tweed as my human’s field jacket and breeks. Matchy matchy.
Any tips for surviving these in-between days until New Year’s Eve?
Call me a traditionalist, but there’s little that can’t be fixed with a healthy dose of fresh air, whatever the weather. I’ll nudge my human towards their favourite jacket and boots, remind them to take a flask and a couple of snacks for us both (which we all know is what the Field Coat’s bellows pockets were really designed for), and we’re all set for a nice long walk to shake off the festive indulgences.
If you could recommend one Purdey accessory to all fellow hounds, what would it be?
Easy. The thing that any dog would be overjoyed to get its paws on is a bespoke Purdey house slipper. Ideally velvet, with a satin quilt lining, gold monogram and leather sole, though the design is a matter of personal taste. These materials are the perfect texture to really get your teeth into – if you ever get the opportunity to chew on one of these fine slippers, don’t miss it.
What are you most looking forward to in the new year?
I’ve just booked myself and my human into the Purdey Sporting Agency’s special shoot at Nutley Manor Estate in Hampshire on Saturday 18 January; it’ll be a thoroughly enjoyable way to start the year, with some good woodland pheasant sport. Then, we’re hoping to hop a plane to carry on the fun with a weekend of shooting in Mallorca in February. Winter sun is my favourite!
