Have You Ever Seen a Yellow Ribbon Tied on a Dog's Collar? Do You Know What it Means?

You are out in the park with your family, playing, running, maybe even having a picnic.  Perhaps your dog is with you; however, off in the distance you see adorable dog approaching with their handler and your children immediately begin to run towards this adorable dog.  As the dog is becoming closer, you see a yellow ribbon tied on the dog’s collar.  What goes through your mind?

Well, perhaps at first, Tony Orlando and Dawn’s hit song, “Tie A Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree” (did I just age myself?!) lyrics may begin to replay in your mind.  While both the yellow ribbon around the dog’s collar and oak tree signify awareness, one is awareness about bringing soldiers home safely, while the other is keep children (adults too) safe.

A yellow ribbon around a dog’s collar is to help children identify that a dog needs to proceed with caution; the dog may not be child friendly, may have fear or anxiety issues; or, may be overly excited.  Either way, caution should be applied when approaching.

The Yellow Dog Project is a nonprofit organization that is a global effort to help raise awareness and education around dogs that require a little extra distance upon approaching.  Does this mean that the dog is aggressive or mean?  No, there are numerous reasons why a dog may have a yellow ribbon; new dog with the handler; under medical care; in foster care for instance.

The purpose of this project is to assist with the proper techniques to approach a dog; children have a lot of energy and often to run up and pet a dog, not all dogs understand this and become fearful.  With proper education, all parties concerning are put in a less stressful environment, which in turn reduces opportunities for an unforeseen accident.

Back to your children running towards the adorable dog with the yellow ribbon, what would your next steps be?

For more information about this wonderful cause, please visit: The Yellow Dog Facebook page.  Learn how to educate family, friends, colleagues, even yourself.  When there is knowledge; there is understanding.

Have you ever seen a dog wearing a yellow ribbon?  Did you know what it meant prior to this article? Do you have a dog that may need to wear a yellow ribbon? Please share this to help spread the word.

Please Share!

FOLLOW US!