Within the last two weeks, two United States Postal Service (USPS) Letter Carriers delivering mail to Dedham residents have been bitten by dogs. According to USPS, more than 5,400 postal employees were attacked by dogs in the United States in 2021 alone. These dog bites are PREVENTABLE. Dog owners and letter carriers each have their own set of responsibilities to ensure that these bites do not happen.

“The best way to keep everyone safe from dog bites is to recognize and promote responsible pet ownership,” said Dedham Animal Control Officer Deni Goldman.

Below, ACO Deni has answered a few common questions about dog behavior and has compiled a list of suggestions to prevent negative interactions and dog bites:

Why would my dog bite a letter carrier?

Dogs are loyal and often trained protectors of their owners and their property. They may perceive a letter carrier to be an intruder and bite to protect their home and owners.

What can I do if I approach another home with a dog?

Dogs are social beings by nature and are acutely sensitive to body language. House guests, letter carriers, and other strangers should evoke positive feelings not negative ones. Do not approach the dog without the owner present and their permission.

Can’t I just give the dog a treat to behave?

Do not give treats to dogs that are not your own. While giving treats to a dog, whether on your delivery route or not, may open a positive relationship between you and the dog, this action also opens the door for dog bites. Dogs become accustomed to letter carriers they encounter on a regular basis, and a new face/smell may cause confusion or stress. As a result, the dog may lash out at/bite the unsuspecting replacement. Dogs are creatures of routine and any interruption to that routine may alter a dog’s behavior.

SUGGESTIONS FOR DOG OWNERS:

1. Pay attention to what time your letter carrier usually brings your mail and check to be sure your dog is inside. Keep the dog inside until the letter carrier is gone.
2. If you need to open the door to sign for a letter or to ask your letter carrier a question, secure the dog in another room prior to opening the door.
3. If you have a mail slot, keep your dog away from the slot to protect the letter carrier’s fingers or hands.
4. If your mailbox is inside your fenced yard and your dog is outside with you, keep the dog on a leash away from the mailbox while your mail is delivered.
5. When your dog is outside, never walk up to the letter carrier and accept your mail. Your dog may think you are being threatened.

SUGGESTIONS FOR LETTER CARRIERS AND OTHER DELIVERY WORKERS:

1. Observe the area where you know dogs may be present prior to delivery.
2. Remember that dogs are taught to be alert for potentially dangerous conditions, so it is important to respect a dog’s territory.
3. Never startle a dog.
4. Keep your eyes on the dog and observe his body language. Retreat to your truck and report the concern to your supervisor if you feel unsafe.
5. Never assume a dog will not bite.
6. Call the dog’s name, if it is known, and talk to it in a friendly and calm manner.
7. Never attempt to pet or feed a dog.
8. If a dog lunges at you, stand your ground and protect your body by placing something between you and the dog, such as your mail satchel. Try to stand still, calm, and avoid direct eye contact. Do not run. Try to keep the dog engaged in biting the inanimate object while you call/shout for help.

According to the United States Postal Service, if a letter carrier feels unsafe due to a dog, mail service to the home and/or neighborhood may be halted, requiring the resident to pick up their mail at the Post Office. Learn more about the USPS practices and procedures for delivery and dogs on their website.