There are concerns for postal delivery workers over the holiday season, because in just the last six months (nation-wide), more than 49 posties a week have become victim of dog related incidents.
Nationwide, Queensland is the worst state for dog attacks according to Australian Post data.
Some of these people needed to go to hospital for wound cleaning, suturing and a tetanus injection along with antibiotics.
One female postie required hospitalisation with skin grafts, she could not go back to work.
Another worker commented that even a poodle dog attacked him when on the owner’s property and that it is somewhat ‘normal’ for a dog to alert to strangers on their turf, but it is up to the owners to either control or restrain their dog.
Many postal workers suffer from long term psychological issues following an attack.
Even minor wounds, ranging from scratches to lacerations and bruising can cause pain and are a risk for infection.
Dog attacks are one the highest safety concerns for postal workers and delivery workers.
Mr Rod Maule, the Australian Post General Manager had this to say: “Aggressive or dangerous dogs are reported to Council and local rangers; however, too often we see risks are not properly mitigated. This often leads to multiple instances of the same dog repeating aggressive behaviour, which can result in a severe attack on our post workers. As the holiday season approaches dog owners need to be mindful that all visitors including postal should have safe access to the front door without being stopped by a dog. Dog ownership comes with responsibility and we need Council support to effectively enforce laws and regulations to ensure the safety of our people.”
Yet local laws come from legislation passed in the State Parliament with funding from Government grants, council tax, fees and charges.
The Scenic Rim has a population of 43,000 people and only four animal rangers, while dog and cat ownership continues to increase along with the dangers, problems and wildlife loss associated with them.
Which means each officer could have almost 11,000 potential dog owners to content with – ridiculous!
It is up to State government to address this growing and dangerous problem.
