USPS Paw Program Helps Protect Mail Carriers in New York

Yellow and orange paw print stickers on mailboxes provide visual cues for postal workers.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The United States Postal Service (USPS) has implemented the Paw Program, a nationwide initiative to help protect mail carriers from unexpected dog encounters. In New York, yellow paw print stickers indicate a dog lives at the next house on the route, while orange stickers mean a dog lives at that specific address. The program also includes training for carriers on handling dog interactions and providing them with tools like dog repellent spray.

Why it matters

Dog bites and aggressive pet incidents have become a daily safety concern for mail carriers, especially in the warmer months when dogs are outside more often. The Paw Program aims to reduce these incidents and even long-term anxiety for carriers in close-knit New York neighborhoods with constant deliveries.

The details

The Paw Program was originally tested in several states and has since expanded across the country, including New York. USPS trains carriers on how to handle dog encounters and equips them with tools like handheld scanners that alert them to previous dog-related incidents along their route. Some carriers also carry dog repellent spray, which is only used when absolutely necessary. The goal is always prevention and awareness.

  • The Paw Program was originally tested in several states.
  • The program has since expanded across the country, including New York.

The players

United States Postal Service (USPS)

The national postal service that has implemented the Paw Program to help protect mail carriers from unexpected dog encounters.

New York dog owners

Residents who can support the program by allowing USPS to place the appropriate sticker on their mailbox and by ensuring their dogs are safely secured, especially during delivery hours.

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The takeaway

The Paw Program is a simple but effective way to help keep mail carriers safe in New York's close-knit neighborhoods with constant deliveries. By supporting the program, dog owners can do their part to protect the people who make sure our mail keeps moving.