BRUCETON MILLS, WV – Local residents may have noticed a paw print on their mailbox recently, but these prints weren’t left by a canine. They are part of a Postal Service program aimed at preventing dog attacks on letter carriers.

Incidents involving dog attacks on Postal Service employees rose to more than 6,000 cases last year, 36 of which were in West Virginia. 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.

“The Postal Service wants every delivery to be a safe one,” said Postmaster Jennifer Greenwood.

The Bruceton Mills Post Office has begun placing 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. The PAWS Program was introduced in Kingwood last summer.

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. When a postal employee suffers an injury from a dog attack, it can cost the dog owner thousands of dollars for medical bills, lost wages, uniform replacement costs, and pain and suffering for the employee.

As part of the 2025 USPS National Dog Bite Awareness Campaign, the organization is offering crucial information on how dog owners can be good stewards for safe mail delivery and ensure the safety of its employees. The month-long campaign began June 1. This year’s theme is “Secure Your Dog, Keep Deliveries on Track.” Spread news of the campaign with the hashtag #dogbiteawareness. Additional information can be found at National Dog Bite Awareness Campaign - What We Do - About.usps.com.

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