June Is Dog Bite Awareness Month: Strategies To Protect Mail Carriers

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Everyone loves their pets, especially Man’s Best Friend.  But loving Fido means knowing Fido, and preventing dog attacks on mail carriers in Massachusetts requires proactive measures from pet owners. In 2023, dogs bit U.S. Postal Service employees 116 times in Massachusetts, with Springfield reporting the highest number of incidents .WBUR

Tips for Massachusetts Dog Owners to Ensure Mail Carrier Safety

  1. Secure Your Dog Indoors:  Based on experience, most people know the approximate window of time that their mail carrier delivers their mail each day.  Before and during this time, make sure that you place your dog in a separate room and close the door. This prevents the dog from charging the door or escaping through screen doors or plate-glass windows.
  2. Use Leashes and Fences: Whenever you are outside your home, always walk your dog on a leash. Even if you have an electronic fence, it may not stop your dog from approaching the mail carrier during deliveries.
  3. Do Not Allow Children to Collect Mail directly from the carrier, as the dog may perceive this as a threat to the child.
  4. Utilize Informed Delivery: USPS has a free Informed Delivery service to receive digital previews of incoming mail and packages. This allows you to anticipate the carrier’s arrival and secure your dog accordingly.
  5. Train and Socialize Your Dog: Ensure your dog is well-trained and accustomed to various situations and people. This reduces the likelihood of aggressive behavior during deliveries.

Serious Consequences of Dog Attacks

Dog attacks on mail carriers can lead to serious injuries and legal & financial repercussions for their owners.  Trust us, we’ve represented clients who have been injured by dog bites many, many times. It it almost always a terrifying experience for the victim.   In 2023, the average cost per insurance claim for a dog bite was $64,555.00.  Additionally, following such a claim, the liability insurance carrier involved will almost certainly increase your premiums.

By taking these steps, you can help increase the safety of your mail carrier, and decrease the possibility of being sued in the event of a dog attack injury.