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Dog Bites: Delivery Drivers Bitten By Dog
Phil West
Pegasus Couriers Director
I’ve spent twenty-five years prancing, pacing, and plodding through neighbourhoods as a courier, and let me tell you – dogs aren’t always the delightful darlings their owners think they are. While many pups are perfectly pleasant, I’ve learned that every delivery brings its own unique challenge when it comes to our four-legged friends.
During my daily routes, especially in those sweltering summer months, I’ve had to become a bit of a dog whisperer. It’s funny how some people can’t understand why I’m not thrilled to meet their “harmless” hound who’s barking and bounding toward me. Sure, many dogs are sweet, but I can’t read their minds, and neither can you.
I’m not trying to paint all dogs as dangerous – that’s not what this is about. But as someone who’s dealt with everything from tiny terriers to massive mastiffs, I’ve seen enough close calls to know that prevention matters. Dog owners, you can help us out by keeping your pets secured when you’re expecting deliveries. It’s not just about protecting us – it’s about protecting your furry family members too.
The Pet Boom
I did some sniffing around (no pun intended) and came across some interesting figures. According to experts, since the pandemic in 2020, more than 3.2 million households across the UK have welcomed a new pet into their homes. This brings the UK pet population to about 34 million, with an estimated 12 million of these dogs.
Dog Bite figures
I am highlighting these statistics as dog attacks and bites are a serious problem for courier drivers who often risk being bitten while delivering parcels.
Delivering packages to homes can be tricky, especially when you don’t know how a dog will react. Unfortunately, dog bites on couriers and postal workers are a serious problem worldwide.
Figures from the UK’s Royal Mail show that dogs bit 1673 of their workers during 2020/21 – an average of 32 dog bites weekly.
This is an increase from 2022/23 where 1,916 dog attacks were reported in – averaging 37 a week and increasing 14%.
A drill down on the 2020/21 statistics show that 690 attacks occurred at the front door, 520 in the garden, driveway or yard, and another 340 bites through the letterbox and 130 in the street.
Other figures show 8,655 hospital admissions due to dog bites and injuries in 2021/22.
A recent example of a dog bite scenario is a postal worker who was allegedly chased and bitten by a dog in Liverpool. The incident triggered all deliveries to stop on an entire street. The severity of the incident also led to police involvement which has since gone to court.
The ongoing issue has even led to an official Dog Awareness Week, which takes place in July. This week aims to help promote awareness around dog bites and how to avoid them.
Basic safety tips
Here are some suggestions for dog owners:
- Ensure your dog is out of the way (in the back garden or a faraway room) when the courier arrives.
- Never open the door when your dog is standing or lying behind you.
- If you have a back garden, close access so the dog cannot pull a Houdini and escape
- Dog attacks can happen when you’ve opened the door to sign for an item. Ensure children do not open the door, as dogs can push by them.
- Consider installing a wire letter receptacle or a secure mailbox on the property.
- Ensure your dog is microchipped, wearing a collar and tag. If your dog escapes, it is crucial for animal care centres to locate you if your dog is found.
Why Dogs Might Bite
Dogs may bite for various reasons, often as a response to a perceived threat. One common trigger for delivery driver dog attacks is territorial behaviour. Like people, dogs can protect their space and those they care about. When a dog feels its territory is infringing upon, it may react defensively to protect what is theirs. Understanding this instinct can help prevent conflicts and ensure safe interactions between dogs and delivery drivers.
It’s also important to note that there are many warning signs before a dog bites. For example, signs of aggressive territorial behaviour include growling, aggressive barking, snapping, lunging and biting. Here is some interesting reading for dog owners who want to know more about territorial dogs.
I’ve seen plenty of pups performing protective patterns before they pounce. As a dog owner, I’m always watching for those warning signals that spell trouble. The signs are crystal clear when my furry friend feels their territory’s threatened:
1. First comes the guttural growling and grinding of teeth, like thunder rumbling in their throat
2. Then there’s the fierce forward lunging, with muscles taut and ready to spring
3. Finally, I’ll notice the snapping and snarling, with their teeth bared in a threatening display
Why is public awareness important?
Being safety conscious is key to preventing incidents. Did you know nearly 700 dog bites happen at the front door? This highlights the importance of educating delivery drivers and dog owners to prevent such occurrences.
Couriers and pet owners can make a difference by working together. One effective way is to provide extra information when placing an online order. When purchasing a parcel, customers can include specific delivery instructions for the driver. For instance, they can mention if they have a dog that might be hostile and suggest a secure spot for the package.
Businesses are trying
Some companies have installed alert notifications on their delivery apps for drivers to report dog bites. Several other companies have embarked on safety campaigns, such as raising awareness of the risks and highlighting additional sender information.
Dog owners are responsible for ensuring their dogs do not attack people; however, greater education about why dogs bite and how to prevent it is necessary.
If everyone does their bit to keep delivery drivers and postal workers safe from dogs, it will ensure speedy service and benefit everyone.
If you want more information, please read about courier insurance or how we used an off-road vehicle to get parcels to our clients in the remote areas of the Scottish Highlands.
If you want to join our team and become a driver, please apply online and we will call you back to answer all your questions.
FAQ
Questions People Also Ask About Dog Bites And Couriers
What should I do if I encounter an aggressive dog while making deliveries?
- If you encounter an aggressive dog, stay calm and avoid direct eye contact. Back away slowly without turning your back to the dog. Useyour delivery vehicle as a barrier between you and the dog while calling for help.
Are certain breeds of dogs more likely to bite?
Certain breeds are statistically more prone to aggressive behaviour, while any dog can bite. Breeds like Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds have been associated with higher bite incidents. However, a dog's upbringing and training play critical roles in behaviour.
What are the legal implications for a dog bite in the UK?
In the UK, dog owners can be liable for bites or attacks. Under the Dangerous Dogs Act, owners may face penalties, and injured parties can seek compensation for medical expenses and other damages.
How can courier drivers protect themselves from dog bites?
- Courier drivers can take several precautions, including:
- Using a delivery bag that can act as a shield.
- Carrying dog deterrents such as spray or noise devices.
- Observing the environment for visible dogs before approaching a property.
What are the signs that a dog may bite?*
Signs of a potentially aggressive dog include growling, showing teeth, stiff body posture, raised hackles, and barking. If you notice these signs, it's best to keep your distance.
What should I do if I am bitten by a dog while working?
- Proper training and socialisation of dogs can significantly reduce aggressive behaviour. Owners are encouraged to enrol their pets in training classes and to be aware of their dog's temperament.
Is there insurance coverage for courier drivers who suffer from injuries caused by dog bites?
Many courier companies provide liability insurance that may cover injuries sustained while working, including dog bites. It's advisable to check your specific coverage with your employer.
How do dog bite statistics in the UK compare to other countries?
The UK has lower dog bit rates than countries like the USA. However, the number of incidents is still concerning, especially among postal and delivery workers. Awareness and education are vital to reducing these incidents.
What role does dog training play in reducing bite incidents?
The UK has lower dog bit rates than countries like the USA. However, the number of incidents is still concerning, especially among postal and delivery workers. Awareness and education are vital to reducing these incidents.
How do dog bite statistics in the UK compare to other countries?
The UK has lower dog bit rates than countries like the USA. However, the number of incidents is still concerning, especially among postal and delivery workers. Awareness and education are vital to reducing these incidents.
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