Posties feeling bite of rising attacks from dogs

With posties feeling the bite of rising attacks, unrestrained dogs are becoming a safety issue.
Any unsecured dog has the potential to pose a threat or safety concern and if it’s unsafe, your postie can’t deliver your mail.
Attacks occur on the footpath (41 per cent), at the front door (22 per cent), at the letterbox (17 per cent), in the front yard (16 per cent) and on the road (3 per cent).
Australia Post provides dog safety training to educate posties on canine behaviour and help minimise their risk of being attacked but they still need your help.
“With the huge growth in online shopping, we’re delivering a lot more parcels than ever before,” an Australia Post spokesperson said.
“That means our posties and delivery contractors don’t just need to access your letterbox – they often need to enter gates and approach front doors to complete their deliveries.”
Help to protect your pets, your postie and your neighbourhood with these preventive measures.
• Place your dog in a separate room or restrain it with a leash when a postie arrives at your front door.
• Don’t let children answer the door as dogs can push or charge out.
• Give your dog a toy or treat to distract them when the delivery arrives.
• If you can’t restrain or confine your dog, consider installing a large, secure letterbox on your property for parcel deliveries.
• If you’re out and about with your dog, use a sturdy lead to restrain it.