What:

It’s never too late to teach a dog a new trick. While dogs may not understand social distancing, it is critical they know how to stay sheltered in place as carriers make deliveries to residences and businesses in your neighborhood.

Bakersfield reported 45 attacks in the last 5 years. Nationwide, more than 5,000 postal employees were attacked last year.

To emphasize the seriousness of this issue, USPS is sponsoring Dog Bite Awareness Week, June 4-10 with the theme: “Even Good Dogs Have Bad Days.”

To tell the story locally, the Bakersfield Post Office is inviting media to interview and follow a letter carrier on their route for a first-hand look at hazards encountered every day and attend a Press Conference.

Also available will be a local animal control officer and a USPS Safety official to provide perspective and information.

USPS also will provide the media information on dog bite prevention measures it is taking, and tips for responsible pet owners.

USPS National Rankings can be found here

When:

June 6, 2023, at 10:00 am

Where:

Highland and Bedford in Bakersfield, CA

Who:

Bakersfield Letter Carrier Ritchie De La Cruz
Bakersfield Oildale Manager Erica Crespo
Bakersfield USPS Safety Captain Deven Patterson
Bakersfield Animal Control

RSVP:

To obtain final address and event confirmation RSVP, please contact USPS Safety Engagement Leader Jamie Wright: Jamie.e.Wright@usps.gov

Background:

How to prevent a dog incident:

1. Pet owners are asked to wait for the carrier to leave the area before opening the door to get their mail or package. Too many dogs have slipped between an owner’s legs while the door is open and attacking the carrier. Dogs should be restrained and/or kept in another room as mail carriers make personal deliveries.
2. If dogs are outside, make sure they are properly restrained and out of reach of a mail carrier.

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