INDIANAPOLIS, IN — In a tribute to America’s favorite pets, the U.S. Postal Service has issued a series of Forever stamps featuring photographs of 20 different domestic animals — two dogs, two cats, two birds, two fish, four reptiles, five rodents, a crustacean, a rabbit and a horse.

The stamps feature 20 existing photographs of different animals taken against white backgrounds by Eric Isselée. Each photograph represents animals that are loved: puppies, betta fish, iguanas, hamsters, goldfish, parrots, guinea pigs, tortoises, rabbits, kittens, corn snakes, mice, hermit crabs, chinchillas, gerbils, dogs, parakeets, horses, cats and geckos. Inspired by her lifelong love of animals, art director Derry Noyes designed these stamps.

Though cats and dogs are the more traditional choice, pets come in all shapes and sizes. Small mammals, like hamsters, gerbils and mice, are popular choices for many people, especially those with limited space that might not accommodate larger animals. Slightly larger mammals, like rabbits, guinea pigs and chinchillas, have also become much more prevalent in American homes, particularly for families with older children.

Previous stamps featuring animals include: Adopt a Shelter Pet, 2009; Spay and Neuter, 2002; Bright Eyes, 1998; American Dogs, 1984; American Cats, 1988; Puppy and Kitten, 1982 and Seeing For Me,1979.

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

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