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Put ‘mail dog’ back to work

(Editor’s note: This letter was originally addressed to Aspen Postmaster Howard Orona.)

I am writing to express my extreme disappointment in your decision to not allow Terry Trish to bring his dog Sydney on his mail route. The U.S. Postal Service in recent years has spent considerable efforts in its marketing campaigns to present a customer-friendly image. I find your decision to be contrary to this image.

I understand that in your role as postmaster there are many aspects of the post office and its service that demand your attention. I am amazed that your attention was diverted to enforce a rule that other postmasters found not appropriate to Aspen nor to Terry Trish and Sydney.



As the postmaster you have the discretion to enforce rules in your jurisdiction as you see appropriate to the situation. As you spend time in Aspen and with Sydney and Terry you surely would agree that this rule does not warrant application.

Aspen values companion animals as members of the community. And Aspen constantly struggles with retaining those elements of the community that make Aspen unique and vibrant. Many would agree that seeing a “mail dog” assisting with mail delivery contributes to Aspen’s uniqueness and vibrancy.




I have seen many visitors, as well as residents and workers, smile when they see Sydney and insist they have their picture taken together. What a marketing bonus to have a “mail dog” promoting the Postal Service’s new customer-friendly image, while also contributing to making Aspen a great place to visit.

As the article in the Aspen Daily News stated. Aspen may be the only city in the U.S. that has a “mail dog.” I hope you reconsider your decision and allow Sydney back on the job.

Sheri Sanzone

Aspen