2016 Animals Forever First Class Postage Stamps

Description:

Celebrating diverse animal companions we love and care for.

Stamp designs by Eric Isselée showcase 20 domesticated animals: puppies, betta fish, iguanas, hamsters, goldfish, parrots, guinea pigs, tortoises, rabbits, kittens, corn snakes, mice, hermit crabs, chinchillas, gerbils, dogs, parakeets, horses, cats, and geckos.

The First Day of Issue Ceremony was at the SuperZoo National Show for Pet Retailers in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Representing the history, Americans spend over $60 billion on pets. With 312 million pets in the U.S., their companionship provides various benefits, including lower blood pressure, reduced anxiety, and improved immunity, particularly in children.

Pets contribute to Alzheimer’s and dementia patients’ well-being, aid children with autism, and reduce depression in owners. Caring for pets fosters joy, meaning, and increased physical activity. Dogs, for example, encourage exercise, benefiting both owners and pets.