June 6, 2023
Los Angeles, known for its vibrant culture and sunny weather, has earned a less desirable distinction: it ranked No. 2 on the U.S. Postal Service’s list of cities with the most reported dog bites in 2022.
According to recently released data by USPS, the city witnessed 48 instances of mail carriers being bitten by dogs last year. Houston secured the top spot with 57 reported attacks.
California, as a whole, had the highest number of dog bites across the nation, recording a staggering total of 675 incidents.
As a result, the USPS has seized the opportunity to raise awareness about dog bites and employee safety through its National Dog Bite Awareness Week, which began on Sunday.
The initiative serves as a reminder to the public about the importance of responsible pet ownership and measures to prevent dog attacks.
By promoting education and fostering a safer environment, the USPS aims to ensure the well-being of its employees while delivering mail to communities nationwide.
According to the agency’s recent statement, over 5,300 Postal Service workers fell victim to dog attacks during their mail delivery rounds last year.
Surprisingly, many of these incidents involved dogs whose owners had repeatedly assured that their pets were not aggressive, stating, “My dog won’t bite.”
In response to these alarming numbers, the USPS is urging dog owners to take precautionary measures to safeguard its dedicated mail carriers. They strongly recommend keeping dogs securely inside the house or behind a fence during delivery hours.
By doing so, dog owners can play a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of postal workers who diligently serve their communities.
The USPS hopes that increased awareness and responsible pet ownership will help mitigate the risks posed by dog attacks, fostering a safer environment for both mail carriers and beloved furry companions.