Recent data reveal a concerning trend in New York, especially in Long Island: postal workers are increasingly targeted by dog attacks. The U.S. Postal Service's annual dog bite awareness campaign draws attention to the frequent conflicts between mail carriers and dogs, which often result in injuries.
In 2024, New York reported an alarming 322 incidents where dogs lashed out at mail carriers, positioning the state at fifth in the nation for such attacks. Long Island experienced the highest number of these incidents, with Nassau and Suffolk counties accounting for a staggering 83 of those encounters, as reported by the New York Post. This figure translates to more than 25% of the statewide dog attacks on those who deliver our mail.
Certain areas in Long Island, such as Hempstead, Bay Shore, and Amityville, recorded the highest number of bites last year, with four incidents each, showing that some communities experience a greater risk of dog attacks. Diana Villatoro, a postal worker from Franklin Square with over 25 years of experience, shared her anxiety in an interview with Newsday, saying, "You’re always afraid that you’re going to get bit," the New York Post reported.
Her concerns are based on a personal experience: fifteen years ago, she was bitten by a stray Doberman, which required stitches and a series of rabies vaccinations. The Postal Service has established safety measures, such as providing carriers with non-lethal dog repellents and using bright orange warning cards to mark addresses with known aggressive dogs. However, despite these precautions, incidents continue to occur. "You never know what a dog is thinking even if an owner says it doesn’t bite," Hicksville Postmaster Annette D’Amato told the New York Post.
Across the state in Suffolk County, mail carrier Heather Gigliotti became yet another statistic in this growing issue after being bitten by a golden retriever, a breed typically regarded for its friendly disposition. "And I love animals, I love dogs, and when that happened, it was such a shock to me," Gigliotti recounted to ABC7 New York. Her experience highlights the challenges of the job and supports a broader safety campaign focused on educating the public about securing pets during mail delivery to help prevent future incidents.
As warmer months approach and more dogs are outdoors, postal officials are intensifying efforts to remind pet owners to keep their pets properly restrained. Failure to comply may result in the suspension of mail service at addresses where carriers feel threatened. This highlights the importance of measures aimed at ensuring the safety of both pets and mail carriers.
