Post staff in region suffer 26 dog attacks on duty
Dozens of postal workers have been attacked by dogs while on their rounds this year, according to new figures released by Royal Mail.
A total of 11 posties were attacked in Dudley, nine in Walsall, four in Wolverhampton and two in Cannock from April 2012 to April 2013.
Father-of-three Ian Massey, aged 45, of Etching Hill, Rugeley, has worked as a weekend postman in Stafford since March. But weeks later he was bitten and required a tetanus jab.
"The attack happened back in April. I was doing a normal round and I was coming to the end of the street to do the last few houses when a little dog ran out. I turned around and as I looked down I tried to put the post down so he could nibble on that rather than me, but it was too late. He bit my leg, pierced my trousers and drew blood.
"A lady came out of the house and said 'I'm ever so sorry, it's never done that before'. It was only a small dog, but I'm wary of it happening now. It doesn't matter how big the dog is.
Whenever I push post through letterboxes, I constantly get dogs jumping up and nearly getting my fingers.
"People just need to use a little common sense. Most dogs are fine and they're normally just protecting their home."
Royal Mail is now appealing to householders to keep their animals under control as part of Dog Awareness Week.
Communication Workers Union safety officer Dave Joyce said: "Royal Mail staff are really at the sharp end of dog attacks, with thousands suffering injuries each year which range from minor scratches to lost fingers, severe scarring and psychological issues," he said.
"Simply keeping your dog out of reach of the letterbox or front door is a great way."
