Seven dog attacks a day on postmen ‘far too high’

THE number of dog attacks on postal workers is “unacceptable”, despite falling in the past year, according to a new report.

There are seven attacks every day, mostly at the front door or in the garden, usually when a dog is not kept under control, figures show.

There were around 2,470 attacks in the past year, down by 7%, some leading to permanent and disabling injuries.

Today is the start of the Royal Mail’s fifth Dog Awareness Week, aimed at encouraging owners to keep dogs under control.

Dr Shaun Davis, of the Royal Mail, said “There have been around 14,500 attacks on our postman and woman over the last five years. Some of these attacks have led to extremely serious and life-changing injuries and this is unacceptable.

“While the number of attacks on postmen and women has fallen in the last year, the numbers are still far too high.

“Our postmen and women need to be able to deliver to communities across the UK without the risk of injury.

“We ask all dog owners to keep their pets under control.”

Communication Workers Union safety officer Dave Joyce said: “Seven postal workers attacked by dogs every day of the year is unacceptable and the whole idea of Dog Awareness Week is to highlight the problem and the repercussions for dog-owners and the victims.

“Over 70% of dog attacks on postmen and women occur on the garden path or at the doorstep of the dog owner’s home.

“It just needs owners to restrict their animals’ access to the front garden or to put their dog in another room before opening the door to collect a parcel or sign for an item.”

One owner was recently fined £8,800 after his dog injured a postwoman’s fingers.