Canada Post issues warnings

This warning was issued through Canada Post in Winnipeg, Manitoba. I wonder why they would post such a warning, especially being in Winnipeg since all the bullie breeds have been banned from there about 10 years now.

Are they saying they STILL have a dog problem? Funny, they denied that to Michael Bryant.

Warm Weather Increases Risk of Dog Bites-Manitobans Urged to Secure Dogs to Ensure Safety of Letter Carriers

WINNIPEG, MANITOBA--
(CCNMatthews - July 14, 2006)

With warm summer weather and more dogs left outdoors during the day, Canada Post letter carriers are increasingly at risk of dog bites or attacks. So far this year, five Last year, ten Manitoba letter carriers in Northwest Ontario have received dog bites, resulting in three days of missed work.

Dog bites and attacks are most frequent in the summer months when many dogs spend more time outside.

"Dogs that are usually friendly can respond differently to a strange person in uniform," says Gail Woollard-Barnes, Safety Support Officer with Canada Post.

"Dogs may feel threatened and act to protect their territory."

In addition to bites from unsecured dogs in yards, some biting incidents occur when a resident meets the letter carrier at the door and the dog darts out and attacks the carrier.

Carriers are provided with training to deal with potentially dangerous situations involving dogs but a full mailbag can make it very difficult for carriers to prevent an attack. Burling advises homeowners or tenants to take the following precautions to make their property safer:

- Ideally, secure the dog inside

- If the dog is kept outside, place it in a dog run or secure with a strong leash and collar and make sure that the dog cannot reach any part of the carrier's line of travel

- Ensure your property is fenced

- Move mailboxes closer to the gate and fence

- When answering the door to sign for a delivery, ensure that the dog is secured inside the house

Following these precautions will prevent interruption to mail delivery and avoid potential legal action for lost salaries, medical bills or other related expenses, as well as create safer neighbourhoods.

Letter carriers bitten by dogs require an immediate physical examination and possible tetanus shots. Incidents are reported to local animal protection authorities, which will investigate and take action ranging from warning the dog owner to issuing a ticket. In the most severe incidents, the dog may be euthanized.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Canada Post
Gail Woollard-Barnes,
Safety Support Officer,
Winnipeg, MB
(204) 987-5305
or
Canada Post
James Erickson,
Safety Support Officer,
Winnipeg, MB
(204) 987-5303