This is what it means if you see a yellow ribbon tied to a dog's harness or collar
When we see an adorable dog being walked in the park, it’s human nature to approach them and try to pet them, isn’t it? We’d want to touch them, offer them treats, or even play fetch with them. Because for all we know, dogs are playful and they would always want to interact with people.
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Unfortunately, that is not true.
Just like humans, all dogs are also unique from one another. Yes, there are lots of dogs that want human affection but there are also some dogs that are not really fond of interacting with people. Some dogs need space and when say “space”, we literally mean it.
Have you seen a dog donning a yellow ribbon or any yellow accessory?
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Those yellow accessories aren’t there for some fashion statement or adorable decorations, they are symbols or should we say, warning signs?
Yes, a yellow ribbon or any yellow accessory on a dog’s leash or collar is used to identify that that particular dog needs a little extra space. When a dog is wearing it, that could mean they don’t really want to be approached, touched, or talked to.
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Thankfully, back in 2013, the Yellow Dog Project was founded by Tara Palardy, an Animal Behavior College graduate, and positive reinforcement trainer. She established the group to educate the general public about dogs who need extra distance from anyone.
Those yellow accessories will help you and others to be away from any type of danger.
Prevention is always better than cure that’s why those yellow ribbons are there. Although having any yellow accessories doesn’t mean that the dog is aggressive, dogs still differ even in this type of situation.
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Chances are, the dog is wearing a yellow ribbon and needs space because they’re either recovering from surgery, training or undergoing rehabilitation.
However, one must still be on the lookout for these yellow accessories because approaching these types of dogs might trigger violent reactions or anxiety.
Believe it or not, another thing that causes this is a medicine’s unwanted side effects. This is more particular to dogs that take hormonal treatments or steroids. According to the Yellow Dog Project, half of the owners with dogs on steroids noticed that over time, their furry friends have lost self-control.
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Dogs on steroids could also be anxious, depressed, and possibly aggressive. These unwanted side effects of steroids could last for a few weeks after treatment.
Do you want to know how to properly approach them? Here’s how.
Having a yellow ribbon doesn’t necessarily mean you are never allowed to approach them. In fact, you still can and there are various ways of properly approaching an unfamiliar dog with a yellow ribbon.
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The key is body language, which is oftentimes misinterpreted by animals. If animal instinct kicks in and tells them your movements impose threats, that’s when problems start. Always remember that when facing such a dog, there are 3 key points that you can use to avoid any unwanted stand-off with them.
First: Eye Contact
Never dare look straight at their eyes because doing so might mean aggression to them.
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Second: Voice and Noise
We all know that dogs’ sense of hearing is tenfolds stronger than ours. That’s why it’s highly recommended that you speak softly and slowly because loud noises could easily scare them or trigger a violent reaction.
Third: Body Position
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Dogs don’t want surprises that’s why you must approach them slowly and in a very friendly manner. A straight-up posture could intimidate most dogs that’s why it’s best to bend down to make yourself look closer to their size.
There you go. Next time you see such a cute dog, don’t forget to check for a yellow ribbon or any yellow accessory and try to apply the steps above.
Watch the video below to know more about the Yellow Dog Project.
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