Renfrew County and District Health Unit (RCDHU) is once again promoting its Yellow Ribbon Campaign to remind the public to give space to dogs that need it. Now in its third year, the campaign uses yellow ribbons, bandanas, or similar markers tied to a dog’s leash or collar to signal that the animal should not be approached.
Much like the yellow light on a traffic signal means caution, a yellow ribbon is a visual sign to be careful and keep a respectful distance. The goal of the campaign is to reduce the number of animal bites and scratches, which have been increasing across the region. These incidents can be traumatic and may require medical attention, including rabies vaccinations or animal confinement.
David Tantalo, Manager of Healthy Environments at RCDHU, explains that while the chance of getting rabies from a pet is low, any bite or scratch can cause stress and inconvenience. He adds that the campaign is about prevention. If you see a yellow ribbon on a pet, it is best to give the animal space and avoid contact.
Dogs may wear yellow for many reasons, such as recovering from illness or surgery, feeling nervous or scared, being in training, or needing time to adjust to other people or animals. RCDHU is encouraging pet owners to share photos of their pets wearing yellow markers on social media using the hashtags #YellowRibbonDog and #GiveMeSpace. They can also tag RCDHU at @RCDHealthUnit. Yellow ribbons are available at the RCDHU Pembroke office and participating pet stores, veterinary clinics, and municipal offices throughout Renfrew County.
Families, especially children, are encouraged to learn what the yellow ribbon means. It is always best to ask the owner’s permission before approaching any animal, and the yellow ribbon serves as a helpful reminder of that rule.
If someone is bitten or scratched by an animal, they should report it to RCDHU as soon as possible. It is important to collect the pet owner’s contact information and try to remember details about the animal, such as color, markings, or a unique collar. This helps public health staff properly identify the animal involved.
To learn more about the Yellow Ribbon Campaign or find ribbon pick-up locations, visit the RCDHU website or call 1-800-267-1097.
(Written by: Emma Butler)