An international campaign to create awareness that ‘some dogs need space’

DOGS IN YELLOW AWARENESS CAMPAIGN

On the 20th of March is the 'dogs in yellow awareness' day.  When out and about walking your dog, we must always be mindful when seeing a dog that is on a lead and be sure to respect their space and don't let your dog run up to them as there may be a reason they are on a lead. Even if your dog is friendly, the other dog may be anxious, nervous, or reactive, so we must always ask before approaching other dogs.

You may have seen dogs out on your walk with a yellow ribbon, vests, or harnesses etc on, but do you know the reason for this? Yellow is a colour commonly used to communicate that a dog ‘needs space' for whatever reason. It is an international campaign with growing traction.

There are several reasons that you can use yellow when out with your dog - both temporary measures and for ongoing use. 

Reasons why yellow bandanas/ ribbons/ vests/ lead ties/ harnesses might be used:

• Illness or injury
• Old age
• Bitches in season
• Training purposes
• Nervous or reactive

A common misconception is that dogs with some form of yellow on their lead or body means the dog is aggressive, but this isn't always the case, it just means “I need space, please do not approach me.”

You can find more information about this campaign here; Dogs in yellow campaign page.

If you are concerned about your dogs anxious or reactive behaviour, particulary within the vets, we can help!

We now have evening 'Happy Visits' available to help your dog become more confident and relaxed when coming to the vets. The Happy Visits cost £5 for 20 minutes in the practice between 7pm-8pm.

Book an evening Happy Visit now

There are medication options available if your pet is very anxious, book an appointment with one of our vets if you feel your pet could benefit from this.