Proceed with caution: Yellow Dog Project lets dogs and people interact safely

Yellow is an international symbol for caution, and the Yellow Dog Project has adopted the color as a way to tell people to use caution when approaching certain dogs.

Particularly with rescue dogs, who may have been mistreated and are fearful of humans, a yellow ribbon or bandanna tied to the dog's collar or leash tells people to go slowly, for the safety of all parties.

"Yellow dogs," as they are called, can come in all shapes and sizes. Although breeds such as pit bulls get a bad rap for being aggressive, small dogs such as
Chihuahuas can also lash out if they feel threatened.

Often new owners of rescue dogs are wary of taking their dogs on leashed walks in parks or other public places, not knowing how they will react in a new situation. A friendly person or child might be seen as a threat, with unfortunate results.

With a big yellow ribbon tied around their neck or on their harness, both dogs and the public know that they can interact from a safe distance and proceed with caution. Everyone, even dogs, needs to have personal space respected.