Bovine Therapy at a Yorkshire Farm is Udder Bliss
At Dumble Farm in Yorkshire, UK, visitors can experience stress relief through cow cuddling and learn about sustainable farming. Despite the high cost, tickets are in demand, highlighting the therapeutic potential of human-animal interactions.
By Beth Snider · December 8, 2023
In the picturesque landscapes of Yorkshire, UK, a former dairy farm has become an unexpected haven for those seeking an unconventional approach to mental well-being. Dumble Farm, nestled in the northern reaches of England, has seen a surge in visitors eager to embrace the potential therapeutic benefits of close encounters with their furry residents – cows.
For those yearning for a unique stress-relief experience, in their barn, the farm offers a solution “cow cuddling”. Paying visitors are not merely spectators, they are actively encouraged to caress and brush the cows, fostering a direct connection with these gentle giants. Fiona Wilson, a spokesperson from Dumble Farm, notes that people are drawn to this experience for its potential anxiety-relieving qualities, akin to traditional therapy methods.
People are coming for a well-being point of view. That anxiety ‘relieving-ness’ of being with animals is almost like a therapy
Guests at the farm express the therapeutic value of the experience, the bonding goes beyond stress relief, an unparalleled experience with the gentle creatures. One individual shares, “It’s really nice, I’m fond of all animals, especially cuddly ones, so cuddling a big fluffy animal is cool.” Another adds, “They are easy to brush. It’s very therapeutic, which I didn’t think I would say.”
Beyond the joy of cow cuddling, Dumble Farm integrates educational activities on conservation and sustainable farming into the experience. Visitors gain insights into the farm’s commitment to responsible farming practices, contributing to a broader understanding of the agricultural landscape. Despite the $68 price tag for a two-hour session, tickets are in high demand, often booked months ahead. A participant notes, “You have to get up as soon as they are released to get the tickets.” The popularity of cow cuddling reflects a rising interest in well-being practices.
The farm’s foray into this new venture was a strategic move born out of economic challenges. In February, the owners decided to diversify after facing the harsh realities of modern dairy farming, where they found themselves working long hours every day of the year while still struggling financially. In an attempt to maintain the farm’s viability, the decision was made to sell off the majority of the dairy herd, keeping only five cows with placid and friendly natures. Fiona Wilson explains that the cows undergo preparation for several months before visitors are welcomed. Special care is taken to create a serene environment conducive to snuggling. Wilson describes the process, “We feed the cows a different food, so they get nice full stomachs and they lay down cuddling, all nice and quiet, and that is the best time to cuddle them, rather than when they are stood up and walking around.” This attention to detail ensures a positive experience for both the cows and the visitors.