A nationwide campaign urging awareness of anxiety issues in canines has come to Penicuik.
Marketed under the “some dogs need space” tagline, the Yellow Dog Uk campaign is urging dog owners to highlight whether their furry friend is suffering from anxiety issues, or generally just needs extra space. The campaign also wants fellow walkers to understand the symbolisation of the yellow ribbon and take appropriate action, such as putting a lead on their dog, when approaching a marked canine.
A statement on the campaign’s website says:
We know how stressful it can be for a Yellow Dog and its owner when a social dog or off lead dog approaches. We believe that by making the Yellow Ribbon an accepted representation throughout the UK that a dog needs space will benefit everyone and make dog walking more enjoyable experience.
A yellow ribbon on the dog’s lead or collar, or a dog sporting a yellow bandana, could signal that the pet needs to be given extra space. This could be because the dog is undergoing rehabilitation, recovering from an operation, suffering from a painful illness like arthritis or perhaps the dog does not play well with others.
Those behind the yellow ribbon movement are keen to stress though that the ribbon is not to signify an aggressive dog. They say that any dogs showing aggressive behaviour should be properly trained before interacting with other canines.
The campaign is still in its early stages but dog owners in Penicuik have already taken up the gauntlet in promoting the cause. Many dogs have been spotted in the region sporting a yellow ribbon.
A spokesperson from Yellow Dog Uk said:
We urge the public to get behind this campaign. Print out our free posters from our website, put them up in your local dog walking areas, approach your local dog warden, ask your vet to display a poster.
We are relying on the public to pass the message on and educate each other while we work to raise awareness.
If you want to find out more, or indeed purchase a ribbon or bandana, visit their website here.