09/29/2026
Thank goodness someone finally addressed the real threat to rare breed Parent Clubs: kennel-branded shirts and identity.
Here is our apparently-approved outfit if I were going next year with Pancake—if my Parent Club bans me from wearing my Rainsway logo or identifying myself as a breeder: 🥞😂
This comes after months of criticism of me for wearing Rainsway-branded clothing at the event and giving stickers to friends and people who already followed me and specifically asked for them. Meanwhile, I spent two days answering questions about Clumbers, doing TV interviews, and handing out hundreds of cards directing the public to my Parent Club’s resources—for the Club and for the breed.
Apparently the solution to a rare breed needing more outreach is making sure the breeders, owners, and enthusiasts doing the outreach are as unidentifiable as possible.
Seriously, a new standing rule was proposed at the Parent Club Board meeting yesterday banning kennel-logoed clothing and anything considered kennel “marketing” at ANY club-sponsored event.
While AKC Meet the Breeds NYC was specifically targeted, it wouldn’t stop there. Under this proposal, you couldn’t volunteer at Public Education events, FastCAT, Scent Work, Hunting, National setup, or other National events in a kennel-logoed shirt, jacket, apron, or hat. Don’t mention you’re a breeder—that could be “marketing.” Don’t mention who bred your dog—that could be “marketing” too.
Alert the Board: someone promoted their kennel by simply existing, saying who they are, and making meaningful connections for the breed. 🚨
Parent Clubs need breeders promoting their breeds and their Clubs. Breeders don’t need Parent Clubs.
Rare breeds survive because passionate, responsible breeders show up, educate the public, mentor newcomers, and put their names and reputations behind what they do. Those connections build credibility for the breed and the Club for years to come. We need more of that, not anonymous volunteers.
Club membership is declining. Breed numbers are declining. Our sport is struggling. So sure, attack the passionate people trying to keep it alive, dictate what volunteers can wear or even say about who they are, and then wonder why no one wants to help.
Volunteer shortage? Better add more rules.
But hey, the pancake costume will probably still be allowed… for anyone still willing to volunteer silently and anonymously. 🥞
