Dog owners could face fines as attacks on posties rise

Royal Mail reported 2,206 ‘serious dog confrontations’ up to March 2024, a 15 per cent increase from the previous year.

Attacks causing ‘serious injuries’ surged by 148 per cent, from 33 to 82.

This equates to 42 weekly attacks on postal workers.

Lara O’Donnell, head of personal injury at CEL Solicitors, said: “Being injured at work is a serious matter that affects thousands of people in this country every year.

“But when it comes to postal workers being attacked by dogs, this is often more an issue with the pet owner, as it is their responsibility to ensure their animal is under control and does not pose a risk to the public.

“However, if the employer did not take reasonable steps to make their employee safe, they could then be liable.”

The Royal Mail’s Dog Awareness campaign advises homeowners to secure dogs away from the door, invest in a letter cage, and note that mail can be suspended if a dog is loose.

Almost half of the attacks occurred at the front door, with 389 injuries through the letterbox.

Ms O’Donnell said: “If you are attacked by a dog you should report it to the police as soon as possible.

“And for pet owners, it is important to have comprehensive insurance in case a situation like this arises.”