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.

A recent report named LOS ANGELES as a one of the nation’s worst for dog attacks, with than 45 attacks last year. Nationwide, more than 5,300 postal employees were attacked last year.

To emphasize the seriousness of this issue, USPS is sponsoring Dog Bite Awareness Week, June 12-18.

To tell the story locally, the Dockweiler Post Office (dedicated in honor of Marvin Gaye) is inviting media to interview and meet the carriers for a first-hand look at hazards encountered every day. The Los Angeles USPS Postmaster, Jeremie Six will be onsite to thank the carriers for their service by grilling “hot dogs” and providing snacks. In addition, a USPS Safety official will be on hand 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.

When:

Thursday, June 8, 2023, 9 am to 11 am

Where:

Dockweiler/Marvin Gaye Post Office
3585 S Vermont Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90007

Who:

Dockweiler Letter Carrier
Dockweiler Station Manager
USPS Safety Ambassador
USPS Safety Specialist
Postmaster, Jeremie Six

RSVP:

USPS Strategic Communications Specialist, Natashi Garvins at natashi.l.garvins@usps.gov

Background:

More than 5,300 Postal Service employees were attacked by dogs while delivering the mail last year. Aggressive dog behavior is a common safety concern USPS employees face. To keep its workers safe, the organization is providing important information on how dog owners can be good stewards for safe mail delivery as part of its annual National Dog Bite Awareness Week public service campaign.

The campaign runs Sunday, June 4, through Saturday, June 10. This year’s theme is “Even good dogs have bad days.” Spread the news of the campaign with the hashtag #dogbiteawareness.

Pet Owners Can Help Support Safe Mail Delivery

Mail carriers know all dogs can bite, even those perceived as nonaggressive. Dogs are generally protective of their turf and dog owners have an important responsibility to control them to ensure safe mail delivery.

Most people know the approximate time their letter carrier arrives every day. Securing your dog before the carrier approaches your property will minimize any potentially dangerous interactions.

When a letter carrier comes to your home, keep dogs:

• Inside the house or behind a fence;
• Away from the door or in another room; or
• On a leash.

Pet owners also should remind children not to take mail directly from a letter carrier as the dog may view the carrier as a threat to the child.

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