A reactive dog is a dog that becomes overly excited by common things in their environment.
When non-reactive dogs see another dog while walking, they might just say hello or look briefly. But for a reactive dog, seeing another dog can make them bark a lot, hide, jump forward, pull hard on the leash, and more.
These actions are much stronger than what’s needed and can be difficult for the owner to handle. If you’ve ever walked a reactive dog, you know how hard it is to calm them down once they have been triggered.
Get a dog licence
If you have a dog that is 3 months or older, you must buy a licence and renew it annually.
What's happeningYellow Bandana Project
The yellow bandana is part of a new international movement for reactive dogs.
Dogs wearing yellow are often signalling that they need space and could become reactive if approached by another person or off-leash dog. The yellow indicator is a friendly way of telling other dog owners to leash their dogs and keep them a safe distance away.
Get a yellow bandana
If you have a reactive dog with a valid dog licence, you can get a free yellow bandana from Animal Services while supplies last.
3 ways to request a bandana
- Email animal.services@vancouver.ca with your dog licence number, mailing address, and bandana size (small or large).
- Visit Animal Services any day of the week, from 10am to 6pm.
- Phone 3-1-1 or 604-873-7000.
If you don't live in Vancouver, you can still participate in this project by buying a plain yellow bandana, leash, ribbon, or dog vest. By participating, you're helping raise awareness for the initiative.
Contact Animal Services
1280 Raymur Ave
Vancouver, BC V6A 3L8
Information icon Street parking is limited on Raymur and Malkin. Park on neighbouring streets.
Phone: 604-873-7000
Fax: 604-871-6862
Email: animal.services@vancouver.ca