Loose dogs prompt suspension of mail delivery in West Memphis

WEST MEMPHIS, Ark. (WMC) – Some West Memphis residents were informed by the U.S. Postal Service that direct-to-door mail services in their neighborhood have been suspended due to loose dogs.

They are now required to install a curbside mailbox or pay for a P.O. Box.

Joe B., who lives on North Bond Street in West Memphis, said he received a letter from the U.S. postal service on January 15 stating:

“Currently your mail is being held here at the West Memphis Post Office, because of dogs not being properly secured at the time of mail delivery.”

Joe said he doesn’t own any dogs, but Action News 5 noticed several broken fences in the neighborhood.

Action News 5 was also told that Arlington and Rose Lawn Drive, just three minutes away, have the same “loose dog” issue.

“I went and told them it’s like this: if I get my mail late or I don’t get my mail and I have to pay a late charge, I’m going to have to turn it around where y’all pay the late charge, I might even make you pay the bill too,” said Joe B.

The letter warns that if you own a dog and it’s loose, you and your neighbors' mail will not be delivered, your dog may be impounded, and you could be fined.

It also reads if your dog attacks a carrier, you may be liable for medical expenses and suffering. Your dog could also be quarantined and/or “destroyed.”

The city said USPS has reported multiple incidents where dogs have interfered with mail delivery.

Mayor Marco McClendon said he is aware of the incidents in a statement, which read in part:

“This is a matter of public safety and community responsibility. We ask all pet owners to be mindful of their pets’ whereabouts,” said Mayor McClendon.

The USPS’ letter said if dogs are not properly secured and neighbors' mailboxes are not moved curbside by January 25, all mail will be returned to the sender.

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