If You See A Yellow Ribbon Tied To A Dog’s Leash, Here’s What You Need To Do

Jul 30, 2018 by apost team

We often refer to dogs as “man’s best friend” and for good reason. Dogs are social creatures who love to show affection to their owners and those around them. Many of us will make our way towards a dog when we see one out in public to try and pet them and get doggie kisses. Most dogs do enjoy this type of attention, but there will be a dog here and there that needs his own space. That is why you will sometimes see a yellow ribbon tied to a dog’s leash.

There are many reasons a dog shouldn’t be approached right away. Rescue dogs can be skittish when they find themselves around the public. Other canines are simply nervous when they are in social settings. You may also find service dogs out in public who simply haven’t had the time to complete their training. It is important to be very thoughtful about approaching a strange dog out in public. Some dogs can be petted while others should be left alone.

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A new project has come to light concerning dogs who just need some extra space when they are out in public. It’s called The Yellow Dog Project and the goal of the group is to let others know that not all dogs should be approached by strangers. A yellow ribbon signifies that the dog may be skittish if approached, and the person seeking to pet the dog should ask or simply curtail their efforts. This is extremely important for people who own special needs dogs.

It means you should approach the dog like you would a yellow traffic light. Go slowly and be cautious. Many owners are fine with having to explain this concept to strangers who might be puzzled by the ribbon.

Most dogs who have the ribbon on their leash do like to interact and play the same as other pups. They simply need to be approached differently than other dogs.

It may not be a ribbon tied to the leash, either. Some dogs may have on a yellow scarf or a vest as a way to warn humans not to approach them too quickly. Yellow ribbons simply mean the dog is still learning how to interact with the public.

Giving strangers a bit of warning about how their dogs act lets these dog owners feel better about being out in public with their canine companions. The dogs may be less afraid and nervous when they are not being approached by strangers wishing to interact with them every time they are out and about.

Do you have any stories about your experience with a yellow ribbon on a dog? Let us know in the comments! Please pass this post along to your family and friends so that we can spread the word about this very important project.