This Brazilian Mailman Turns His Route Into a Daily Dog-Love Tour - 50 Images

Meet the postman who’s redefining “beware of dog” signs—by turning his delivery route into a neighborhood of wagging tails and furry friendships.

Sophia

• Published in Animals
• November 7, 2025

For most people, the sound of barking dogs means one thing: the mail has arrived. It’s a familiar ritual that plays out in neighborhoods everywhere—tails stiffen, teeth show, and somewhere behind a gate, a mail carrier quickens their pace.

But in the quiet city of Guaratinguetá, São Paulo, one man has managed to rewrite this age-old story of rivalry into something far more tender. Each morning, mailman Angelo Cristiano Da Silva Antunes sets out on his delivery route with a bag full of letters and a heart full of patience.

He’s known online as the “Animal-Friendly Postman,” a title he’s more than earned. Instead of rushing past barking dogs, he slows down. He smiles, kneels, and offers a gentle hand. Where most would expect growls, he gets tail wags. Where others see danger, he finds friendship.

His Instagram page captures the proof—photo after photo of joyful faces, furry hugs, and curious snouts pressed against fences. It’s not just adorable content; it’s living proof that empathy can disarm even instinctive fear. Every snapshot tells a quiet story of trust earned, of walls—both literal and emotional—slowly coming down.

Angelo’s routine deliveries have become something more than work. They’re tiny lessons in patience and kindness, delivered one doorstep at a time.

1. Proof that the holiday spirit fits perfectly in one arm.

For Angelo, the idea started simply. “Since I was a child, I admired the mail carriers who delivered letters to my home. My mother always gave them gifts, like wine or champagne, at the end of the year,” he said. “When I grew up, I didn’t think twice about pursuing a career as a mailman.”

2. Proof that some deliveries come with extra affection—no postage required.

It was a dream rooted in admiration, but his love for animals added something special to it.

“Being an animal lover, I decided to make my work even more enjoyable by connecting with the dogs on my route.”

3. “When your selfie game is strong, but your friendship game is stronger.”

He quickly realized that what most people saw as a challenge—the barking, the guarding, the distance—could be softened with time and respect.

“Dogs often bark at mail carriers because their job is to protect their territory. But as I love animals, I made it my mission to win them over. By approaching them gently, petting them, or snapping a photo or video, I build a bond,” Angelo explained. “This makes the workday happier not only for me but also for the animals—many now eagerly wait for me to arrive.”

The Power of Animal Connections

Dr. John Bradshaw, an animal behaviorist and author of 'Dog Sense', emphasizes the important role of social interaction between humans and animals. He explains that forging positive relationships with pets can significantly improve emotional well-being.

According to his research, regular positive interactions with animals can reduce stress levels and enhance overall mental health. This aligns with findings from several studies which indicate that pet ownership can lead to lower blood pressure and reduced feelings of loneliness.

4. “This delivery stop comes with belly rubs and good company.”

What started as a few friendly encounters soon grew into something larger. Angelo began posting his daily photos to Instagram, and thousands of followers flocked to his page to see the smiling faces—both human and canine. Beyond cute pictures, his account also became a platform for helping animals in need. When he finds abandoned or injured pets, he posts their stories, raises funds for their care, and helps them find new homes.

5. This face could stop anyone mid-delivery.

One of his most touching memories involves a stray named Cabrita. “She was the leader of a group of dogs that often chased me,” he recalled. “I started trying to win her over. Slowly, she began to respond, and we became friends. Once Cabrita trusted me, the others did too. Today, she lives in a loving home, which makes me so happy.”

6. “That look says, ‘You’re my favorite part of the delivery route.’”

His compassion has since inspired countless others to see dogs—and their daily routines—a little differently. “Always respect the animals,” he says. “Show them you want to be friends, and never mistreat them. Over time, they’ll trust you and understand you’re just there to do your job.”

Animal welfare advocates note that every interaction with pets can contribute to their socialization and overall happiness. A well-socialized dog is less likely to exhibit behavioral issues, making their interaction with the community more positive.

Veterinarians suggest incorporating regular socialization practices into a dog's routine to build confidence and reduce anxiety when meeting new people. Engaging with friendly mail carriers, like Angelo Cristiano Da Silva Antunes, can be an excellent part of this strategy.

7. Golden hour with the goldenest of good boys.

8. “You can almost hear the tail wag through the photo.”

9. “He’s not barking—he’s whispering sweet secrets through the gate.”

Positive Reinforcement Techniques

Dr. Patricia McConnell, a renowned animal behaviorist, advocates for positive reinforcement as a fundamental training technique for dogs. She suggests that rewarding desired behaviors, like calmness when meeting new people, can strengthen the bond between pets and their human friends.

In her book, 'The Other End of the Leash', she outlines how this approach not only teaches dogs good manners but also enhances their relationships with humans. Regular reinforcement can lead to more relaxed interactions, reducing the anxiety that some dogs feel around strangers.

10. “Every gray hair tells a story—and this one’s full of tail wags.”

11. “He’s not stealing the mail, he’s stealing hearts.”

12. “Business meeting concluded: more treats, fewer barks.”

Experts in animal behavior highlight that routine interactions can help dogs develop trust and familiarity with different people. Dr. Alexandra Horowitz, a prominent dog cognition researcher, explains that dogs are highly adaptable and can learn to respond positively to various stimuli, including postal workers.

Consistent positive experiences can encourage dogs to associate mail delivery with friendly encounters, leading to a reduction in typical defensive behaviors like barking or growling.

13. “That face says ‘I signed for the package, now where’s my treat?’”

14. “You can’t tell who’s fluffier, but you can tell they’re both delighted.”

15. “You can’t teach this kind of customer service smile.”

Understanding Dog Behavior

Dr. Marc Bekoff, an ethologist, notes that understanding canine behavior is essential for improving human-animal interactions. He highlights that dogs often bark at mail carriers not out of aggression, but rather as a form of communication.

This barking can signal excitement or a protective instinct. By reframing our understanding of these behaviors, pet owners can better manage their dogs' reactions during encounters, turning potentially tense moments into opportunities for positive engagement.

16. “He delivers letters, not treats—but try telling that to this dachshund.”

17. Two smiles, zero bills to deliver—just pure serotonin.

18. “The only delivery this gentle giant’s waiting for is another hug.”

Incorporating structured playtime into the daily routine of dogs can significantly enhance their social skills. Animal trainers suggest that engaging in activities like fetch or agility training can improve a dog's confidence, making them more comfortable during interactions with strangers.

This proactive approach not only benefits the dog but also fosters a sense of community among residents. Simple steps like organizing dog playdates can create a more harmonious environment, as dogs learn to socialize in a controlled setting.

19. When the delivery includes smiles on both ends of the leash.

20. “When you try to look tough but your favorite human shows up.”

21. “They both understood the selfie assignment perfectly.”

Community Engagement Through Pets

Dr. Hal Herzog, an anthrozoologist, emphasizes the importance of community engagement in fostering better human-animal relationships. He believes that activities involving pets, such as neighborhood dog walks or community events, can significantly enhance social bonds.

By promoting these interactions, communities can create a more pet-friendly atmosphere, leading to increased happiness and reduced isolation among residents. This aligns with the experiences of mail carriers like Angelo, who find joy in their daily interactions with dogs.

22. The look of a dog realizing his best friend delivers happiness daily.

23. “When your favorite delivery is the guy, not the package.”

24. Some deliveries are better than mail — like love in fur form.

Veterinary behaviorists recommend that dog owners educate themselves about canine body language to better interpret their pets' feelings during encounters. Understanding signs of stress, fear, or excitement can help owners manage their dogs' responses effectively.

Dog training classes often include modules on body language to empower owners. This knowledge can lead to more successful social interactions, reducing the chances of misunderstandings between dogs and people.

25. The unofficial neighborhood bench of belly rubs and pure joy.

26. “When your fan club insists on a group photo before you finish your route.”

27. Double the dogs, double the happiness delivered.

The Role of Routine in Dog Behavior

Dr. Brian Hare, an evolutionary anthropologist, suggests that routine plays a crucial role in a dog's behavior. Establishing predictable patterns in their daily lives can help dogs feel secure and more at ease in various social situations.

When dogs know what to expect, they are less likely to react negatively to new experiences, such as seeing a mailman. Regularly scheduled walks, playtimes, and training sessions can create a well-adjusted dog that embraces social interactions.

28. “When your daily route includes bonus cuddles.”

29. "He came to drop off letters, stayed for forehead kisses."

30. “This little guy just invented the world’s cutest handshake.”

Experts in canine behavior indicate that integrating play into a dog's routine can enhance their social skills. Engaging dogs in structured games, such as fetch or tug-of-war, allows them to interact positively with both humans and other dogs.

Veterinarians recommend incorporating these activities into daily routines to build confidence and reduce anxiety. This proactive approach can lead to more favorable interactions with community members, including mail carriers.

31. Two rays of sunshine, one wearing a hat.

32. Customer feedback: five stars, one enthusiastic lick.

33. Proof that the best part of the route doesn’t fit in a mailbox.

Leveraging Technology for Pet Training

Animal trainers are increasingly using technology to enhance pet training. For instance, mobile applications now exist that help owners track their dog's behavior and training progress.

Dr. Jennifer Holland, a wildlife journalist, notes that these tools can provide valuable insights into a dog's personality and needs, making it easier for owners to tailor their training approaches. This allows for more effective socialization strategies, particularly in urban settings where exposure to various stimuli is constant.

34. “The kind of loyalty you can’t track with a barcode.”

35. Special delivery: one fluffy ball of sunshine.

36. “This little one looks like she’s seen every letter on the route—and judged them all.”

To improve community relations through pets, local governments can introduce initiatives that promote responsible pet ownership. Training programs and community events can help bring awareness to the benefits of socializing dogs.

Veterinary professionals recommend open forums where pet owners can share experiences and learn from each other. Such initiatives can create a more pet-friendly environment while enhancing the quality of life for both pets and their owners.

37. “Santa’s got helpers, but this guy’s got the best one of all.”

38. “Neither rain nor snow nor giant fluffy hugs will slow this delivery.”

39. Too much fluff to fit in one photo, not enough to contain the joy.

Benefits of Positive Interactions

According to Dr. Temple Grandin, an animal behavior expert, positive interactions between pets and people can lead to better overall health for both parties. She emphasizes that dogs who experience kindness and affection are more likely to exhibit calm and friendly behavior towards others.

This not only improves the dog's mental state but also enhances the owner's emotional well-being, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship that enriches the community.

40. “Logo on the mask, love in the arms—brand consistency at its sweetest.”

41. “When you bring your coworker along for emotional support and cuteness.”

42. “Both clearly on their lunch break from spreading joy.”

Experts in animal welfare stress the importance of community involvement in creating a safe environment for pets. Dr. Sue Perkins, a zoologist, indicates that neighborhoods can cultivate pet-friendly spaces, such as dog parks, that encourage friendly interactions between dogs and their human neighbors.

These spaces provide an excellent opportunity for dogs to socialize while reducing the risk of negative encounters, like territorial barking at mail carriers.

43. “When you can’t open the gate, but you can still open your heart.”

44. “One’s delivering mail, the other’s delivering pure chill.”

45. Proof that happiness really is contagious.

46. “Looks like someone just got upgraded to express affection.”

47. “This is what ‘special delivery’ looks like in pure joy form.”

48. “Two different eye colors, one shared mission: brighten everyone’s day.”

49. Two tough guys, one soft spot for friendship.

50. “Proof that trust is the best thing you can deliver.”

In a world where it’s easier to scroll past than stop and care, Angelo reminds us that small acts still matter. His friendship with the dogs of Guaratinguetá has become more than a feel-good story—it’s proof that kindness can bridge even the oldest divides. The next time you see a barking dog, maybe think of the mailman who paused, smiled, and reached out anyway. Because sometimes, a little patience can turn fear into trust, and a job into joy.

Share this story with someone who could use a reminder that kindness always delivers.

Research-Based Understanding

Research shows that positive interactions between pets and their human counterparts can significantly enhance emotional well-being for both parties. Dr. Marc Bekoff highlights that fostering these connections through intentional socialization strategies not only benefits the dogs but also strengthens community ties.

As seen through the story of Angelo Cristiano Da Silva Antunes, the mailman who creates bonds with local dogs, these everyday moments can contribute to a more harmonious neighborhood. By implementing expert-recommended strategies, communities can nurture environments where both dogs and humans thrive.

Sophia