Sarah Jones, founder of the #DogsInYellow campaign and My Anxious Dog, has issued a public response following guidance from the Kennel Club, advising against the attendance of dogs wearing yellow at licensed canine events.

In its statement, the Kennel Club reminds handlers that they are fully responsible for their dog’s behaviour and welfare and advises that dogs wearing yellow – to indicate anxiety, fear, or the need for space – are not recommended for participation. The guidance suggests these dogs may not be suitable for high-energy, competitive environments and warns that the use of yellow does not mitigate risk or shift responsibility to others.

But for Sarah, this approach risks stigmatising both dogs and owners who are already taking proactive steps to ensure safety and well-being.

“Yellow isn’t about making excuses – it’s about communication,” she says. “Just as the sunflower lanyard helps others recognise hidden disabilities in people, yellow helps the public understand that a dog may need a little space. It’s a simple, respectful way to prevent incidents before they happen.”

Sarah draws important parallels to how we treat humans with mental health needs or neurodivergent conditions:

“We don’t exclude people with PTSD, postnatal depression, autism, or ADHD from everyday experiences because they need support or space. We show compassion. We adapt. Why should it be different for our dogs?”

Her campaign, #DogsInYellow, was inspired by her own dog, Bella – a cocker spaniel who developed anxiety and reactivity after a traumatic start in life. Through the campaign, Sarah Jones has helped thousands of dog owners feel seen, while promoting responsible handling and public awareness.

“Many dogs who wear yellow can safely attend events – with the right planning, spacing, and understanding. To suggest that these dogs don’t belong, simply because of the colour they wear, sends the wrong message. Needing help shouldn’t mean exclusion.”

Sarah is calling on the Kennel Club and the wider dog community to embrace a more inclusive approach – one that balances safety with empathy and reflects the real experiences of modern dog ownership.

“Awareness isn’t a loophole. It’s a lifeline. And no one – human or dog – should be shut out for needing a little extra space.”

Click here to see the Kennel Club’s advisory document relating to management of dogs at its events.