05/12/2026
This National Pet Cancer Awareness Month, we’re honoring the story behind a beloved tradition at The Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center’s Oncology Service. ❤️🐾
After their dog Tagato underwent cancer treatment, George and Tina Skestos were inspired to bring the bandana tradition they experienced at Colorado State University back to Ohio State. For 40 years, the Skestos family, longtime dog lovers and founders of Gigi’s nonprofit shelter, have helped provide red bandanas to celebrate pets completing cancer treatment.
Today, each bandana symbolizes courage, hope and the bond between patients, families and caregivers.
Read more about the impact of the bandana program: https://bit.ly/4whXGYn
Did your pet receive a red bandana from Ohio State? Share their name or photo in the comments. We’d love to celebrate them with you.