PHILADELPHIA, PA – Local residents may soon notice a paw print on their mailbox. But these prints weren’t left by a canine. They are part of a new Postal Service program aimed at preventing dog attacks on letter carriers.

The Postal Service continually works to find creative ways to reduce dog bites, which remain a serious concern for our carriers. Dog bite prevention efforts add an additional level of safety awareness for USPS employees, our customers, and other public service organizations.

As part of the PAWS Program, a dog paw sticker will be placed on the outside of a mailbox where there is a known dog in the immediate area. The sticker will act as a reminder to proceed with caution when the carrier approaches the area. Customers will also receive a card explaining the program.

Beginning June 12, 2020, the local post office will place the paw stickers on mailboxes, where appropriate. This is especially important if the carrier delivers a package to the door of the residence. A yellow sticker indicates a dog resides at the next delivery address. An orange sticker means a dog resides at that address.

In addition to reducing the incidents of dog bites and attacks, The PAWS Program may help dog owners avoid liability in the event of an attack. The Postal Service wants every delivery to be a safe one.

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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