Author: Hailey VanderWilt
If you’ve ever seen Paws With A Cause (PAWS) dogs out in the world, you may have noticed their capes can be different colors. Those capes aren’t just a signal that the dog is working—they help tell the story of the role that dog is playing and how the public should interact with them. Think of them like uniforms: each color means something special.
Let’s break it down:
Blue Capes: Assistance Dog with a Client
Blue is the official color of PAWS assistance dogs. When you see a dog wearing a blue cape with their handler, that dog is on duty—helping their person live more independently.
● Can I pet? No. These dogs are working hard and need to focus. Please do not distract the dog or interfere with the team.
● Fun fact: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) does not require assistance animals to wear a cape, show ID, or present certification to access public spaces with their handler.
Tan Capes: PAWS Breeding Dogs
Breeding dogs are the proud parents of future working dogs. When you see a dog in a tan cape, you’ve spotted a VIP (Very Important Parent).
● Can I pet? Yes, but only if you get permission first. Since breeding dogs are not custom-trained working dogs or in training, they may enjoy some extra attention if their handler approves.
Green Capes: Foster Puppies in Training
Every PAWS puppy begins their journey as a foster puppy with a volunteer raiser. At 16 weeks old, once they’ve received their full round of vaccinations, they’re ready to wear their green cape.
● Can I pet? No. These puppies are busy learning their basics as they prepare for their future careers.
● Fun fact: Foster puppy raisers play a huge role in preparing these dogs for their future careers.
Grey Capes: Facility Dogs & Visiting PAWS Dogs
Grey symbolizes community connection. You might see a grey-vested dog in one of two situations:
Facility Dogs – These dogs live with a handler (such as a therapist, teacher, or officer) and provide comfort to groups of people in the handler’s workplace.
● Can I pet? If you meet them while they are working in their facility, generally, you may pet them. If you run into them outside of work, they’re off duty—so ask first.
Visiting PAWS Dogs – These are PAWS dogs who make special appearances, often invited by an employer or organization.
● Can I pet? During PAWS visits, they’re there to be petted and enjoyed. If you encounter one off duty, please ask permission before petting.
Quick Recap: Can I Pet?
|
Cape Color |
Dog Role |
Can I Pet? |
|
Blue |
Assistance Dog |
No |
|
Tan |
Breeding Dog |
Yes, with permission |
|
Green |
Foster Puppy in Training |
No |
|
Grey |
Facility Dog |
Yes, with permission |
|
Grey |
Visiting PAWS Dog |
Yes, with permission |
At PAWS, every cape tells a story. Whether it’s a foster puppy just starting out, a breeding dog raising the next generation, a fully trained assistance dog changing a life, or a facility dog creating a sense of calm, these capes are visible reminders of the incredible journeys our dogs take.
The next time you spot a PAWS dog in public, you’ll know exactly what their cape is saying—and how best to support them.
