USPS launches annual dog bite awareness campaign; New Jersey reported 135 incidents last year

NEW JERSEY — The U.S. Postal Service has launched its annual Dog Bite Awareness Campaign, reminding pet owners to take precautions during mail delivery after postal employees experienced 135 dog bite incidents in New Jersey and more than 5,200 nationwide last year.

The monthlong campaign, which began June 1, carries the theme, “Don’t turn your back on dog bite prevention.”

“Every single day, our postal employees serve their communities across dynamic, fast-changing environments,” said Leeann Theriault, employee safety and health awareness manager. “Preventing dog-related incidents requires constant, shared vigilance. This campaign reinforces a vital truth: Animal behaviors can change in an instant, but proactive awareness from both our carriers and the customers we serve can stop painful injuries before they ever happen.”

Postal officials are encouraging dog owners to secure pets before mail carriers arrive, keep dogs on leashes when outdoors and avoid accepting mail directly from carriers while dogs are present. The agency also recommends signing up for its free Informed Delivery service, which allows customers to preview incoming mail and packages electronically.

USPS warned that dog attacks can lead to costly consequences for pet owners, including medical expenses, lost work time and other damages. The agency also noted that mail service may be suspended when carriers encounter unsecured dogs, requiring residents to retrieve mail from their local post office until the situation is resolved.

“I was walking my route when a dog jumped the fence and lunged at me,” said San Antonio letter carrier Fiona Hudson. “I used my dog repellent and mail bag to defend myself, but it was too late. I was rushed to the hospital bleeding, with a broken bone, a severe arm sprain and was barely able to move. While my physical wounds have healed, the trauma of that vicious attack stays with me. Customers must take responsibility and secure their dogs during delivery hours.”

In New Jersey, Edison recorded the highest number of dog-related incidents involving postal employees this year with seven reported cases, followed by Trenton with six and Willingboro with five.

Several communities in northwestern New Jersey also appeared on the Postal Service’s list. Ringoes in Hunterdon County and Parsippany in Morris County each reported two incidents. Phillipsburg in Warren County, Pittstown in Hunterdon County and Florham Park Borough in Morris County each reported one incident.

Postal carriers receive training on identifying potential canine hazards and are equipped with dog warning alerts on handheld scanners, warning cards and dog repellent. Carriers are instructed to remain vigilant, avoid interacting with unfamiliar animals and use protective measures if confronted by an aggressive dog.

USPS officials said preventing dog attacks requires cooperation between carriers and pet owners to ensure safe and uninterrupted mail delivery.