SPCA Otago and Murrays Veterinary Clinic in Mosgiel have launched a range of ''traffic light bandannas'' for dogs to wear to warn about their approachability.
SPCA Otago chief executive Sophie McSkimming said four coloured bandannas were made for dog-owners to buy for their dogs to wear around their necks.
If a dog is wearing the red bandanna, it warns people they do not enjoy interaction with other dogs and should not be approached.
A dog wearing an orange bandanna is warning people it should be approached with ''caution''.
A dog wearing a green bandanna is ''friendly'' and can be approached.
A yellow bandanna informs people the dog is deaf or blind.
If a person ''rushed up'' on a deaf or blind dog it could get a fright and bite, Ms McSkimming said.
The dog owner was responsible for picking the colour best suited to their pet.
If a dog wore a bandanna, it did not exempt its owner from their responsibilities under the Dog Control Act 1996.
The bandannas were available at SPCA Otago and cost $5.
Ms McSkimming was part of a national SPCA projects team and she would take the local initiative to the head office in Auckland this week.
Clinic co-owner Margie Murray said she would ''love'' the bandannas to be sold nationally.
The idea had been bandied about the clinic and they had surveyed clients and Dunedin City Council animal control staff about their worth. The feedback was ''fantastic'', she said.
A red bandanna was a ''visual cue to say my dog doesn't like other dogs - keep your dog away''.
However, if a dog wore a green bandanna, a person should still ask the dog owner for permission before approaching their pet.
