Dogs in Yellow Event - Evenley Wood Garden

On Tuesday 2nd June, a dream of mine became a reality.

That dream was to create a safe space for owners of nervous, anxious, or reactive dogs—a place where they could enjoy a peaceful walk with their dogs without fear of judgement. A place without off-lead dogs rushing up to them, and without having to hear comments like, “Looks like you’ve got your hands full,” “Just train them,” or “Just let them say hi.” (There are often a few other choice phrases too, but you get the idea!)

I was incredibly lucky to be given the opportunity to use the beautiful Evenley Wood Garden for this event. It’s a local space so peaceful that, while you're there, you can completely forget where you are.

There were two reasons I wanted to hold the event there. Firstly, I absolutely love the space myself and regularly visit it with my own reactive dog. Secondly, I wanted to show other owners of reactive dogs that this is somewhere they can visit and enjoy too.

My goal is simple: I want to help owners of reactive dogs build confidence—not only for themselves, but for their dogs as well. I want them to feel able to get out into the world and explore the places they deserve to see.

Training sessions are incredibly important, but they’re only part of the picture. Having the opportunity to take your dog somewhere, relax, and simply enjoy a walk without constantly scanning the environment, peering around corners, or planning every second of your route is invaluable. And for many owners of dogs in yellow, that level of vigilance is a daily reality.

The confidence-building isn't just for the owners—it’s for the dogs too. Dogs who need a little extra time to settle into a new environment, or who need a little more space from people or other dogs. This event was for them. Two hours to sniff, explore, and enjoy somewhere new at their own pace.

Was I nervous about how it would go? Absolutely.

There were moments when I questioned my sanity for inviting a group of reactive dogs into the same space at the same time! But then I reminded myself of a few things.

Firstly, life happens. At some point, we have to be brave enough to try new things because that's how both we and our dogs learn and grow.

Secondly, I was offering something truly special: a safe, non-judgemental environment. A place where barking, spinning, lunging, or any other reactive behaviours weren't frowned upon. A place where owners weren’t met with disapproving looks, and dogs weren’t hurried away because they were perceived as the “scary dog.”

Instead, it was a space where people understood.

If a dog needed more room, owners created it. If someone needed support, they received it. Everyone was on the same journey, and everyone genuinely wanted to help one another succeed.

From the moment people started arriving, I knew the event was going to be a success.

Why?

Because without being asked, owners naturally waited outside the gate and allowed each dog to enter individually, giving them time to acclimatise, say hello if they wanted to, and begin their walk calmly. The queue itself had space between every person and dog—a silent understanding shared by people who simply get it.

No instructions were needed. No reminders were given.

Just kindness, empathy, and mutual respect.

And honestly, it was beautiful.