‘Little known code’ Amazon drivers use if you own a dog

Millions of people who use Amazon in the UK may not realise delivery drivers use ‘little known code’ when delivering to their home address. Pets could be a problem for delivery drivers, so a simple code is used to keep everyone involved safe.

Amazon delivers over two million parcels every day in the UK, the company claims. One typical hazard of the job for delivery drivers isn’t on the roads, it can often be curled up on the sofa in millions of homes – dogs.

The delivery company tells its drivers they “may see dogs” while delivering orders. So, there is a system in place to “prioritise safety” for both pets and people.

On the Amazon Flex website, it says: “Before you arrive at a stop, please check the Delivery Notes in the app for a paw print icon. The paw print icon means that a dog may be present, based on reports from the customer or delivery drivers who used the ‘Report a dog on your route’ option.”

Amazon drivers can use this mark to know that an animal is expected at the property. From the app, customers may be contacted via text to notify them that their order is coming soon and ask them to secure any pets.

Similar issues are common in other UK delivery agencies – most commonly with the UK-wide post service Royal Mail. Recently, it was reported that people who own pets are encouraged to leave a four-word sign in their front window or door if they have a pet in the house.

The free printable sign is available to download on the Royal Mail website. It reads: “I HAVE A DOG. Please wait whilst I secure my dog before opening the door.”

The postal service’s simple warning sign may help protect postal workers from the thousands of dog attacks that happen every year. For homes without access to a printer, a handmade sign can also work.

As well as displaying the sign, dog owners are encouraged to manage their pets when expecting post or deliveries:

• Move your dog: Always put your dog in a different room or behind a gate before you open the front door
• Secure the garden: Keep all garden gates shut so the dog cannot jump out
• Hide the post slot: Put a wire cage over your letterbox. This stops your dog from biting fingers when letters are posted through

It is also suggested that distracting dogs with food or a toy while mail is being delivered could reduce their stress or excitability around postal workers. If you get frequent deliveries, it might even be worth training your dog to go to a specific “place” or bed when the doorbell rings, with a reward for staying there until the delivery is finished.