Australia Post has issued an urgent plea to all dog owners to secure their pets if they are expecting a delivery.
Australia Post said nearly 1000 Australia Post workers have been attacked by household dogs over the past five months, an increase of more than 55 per cent.
Some of the reported attacks have led to severe and debilitating injuries with many requiring medical treatment.
Australia Post executive general manager people and culture Susan Davies said the data shows an alarming upwards trend in the number of dog-related incidents as well as an increase in the severity of injuries sustained.
“As we head into the busiest delivery time of the year, we want to ensure that our Posties are protected,” she said.
We’ve had posties sustain a range of injuries including puncture wounds, lacerations, scratches and bites.
“Sadly, team members have also suffered from long-term psychological impacts following an attack.”
Ms Davies said if postal workers approach a home and they feel it is unsafe they will not make the delivery.
“Our teams’ safety has to come first so we really want to stress the need for people to secure their dogs, especially if they are expecting a delivery,” she said.
