Los Angeles is worst US city for dog attacks on mail carriers

Two cities in southern California top the list of the worst cities in America for dog attacks on letter carriers, according to the US Postal Service. USPS issued a list of the worst 25 cities in America for dog attacks as National Dog Bite Prevention Week began over the weekend.

Last year saw 5,577 US postal employees attacked in more than 1,400 cities.

Topping the list were Los Angeles and San Diego with respectively 83 and 68 attacks in 2011. Other cities in the top five included Houston (47 attacks), Cleveland (44) and Dallas (41).

Along with the physical and psychological affects on mail carriers, dog attacks cost USPS $1.2m in medical expenses last year.

The Postal Service is working with a number of organisations, including the American Veterinary Medical Association and the Prevent The Bite campaign to raise awareness of the issue of dangerous dogs this week.

Tips to dog owners include keeping dogs inside when mail is being delivered, provision of obedience training for problem dogs, and the fact that neutered dogs can be less likely to roam.

It said letter carriers fearing for their safety at an address where a loose or unrestrained pet may prevent delivery can ask homeowners to pick mail up at their local post office until the pet is restrained.

“‘Don’t worry — my dog won’t bite’ is often heard by our letter carriers before they’re attacked,” said Mark Anderson, postmaster of Los Angeles, the worst city in America for dog attacts on mail carriers last year.

“Given the right circumstances, any dog can attack. Dog attacks are a nationwide issue and not just a postal problem. Working with animal behavior experts, we’ve developed tips to avoid dog attacks, and for dog owners, tips for practicing responsible pet ownership.”