CLEVELAND–Every job has its risks.
Now, Cleveland is named one of the most worst cities–not for the weather or crime, but because of thing: our dogs.
“I’d never in a million years guess Cleveland or for that job to be the most dangerous,” said Brecksville resident Jason Semik
According to the United States Postal Service, Cleveland is the sixth most dangerous place for mail carriers, with 38 dog attacks reported last year.
“A friend of mine who was here was visioucly attacked by a pit bull,” said letter carrier Raymond Smith. “Every day he would go by this dog, but this particularly day, the dog broke the chain.”
Last year, more than 5,000 postal employees were attacked in 1,400 different cities. Yet, that number pales in comparison to the 4.7 million americans bitten. Many of those attacked were children.
The USPS states it pays about $1.2 million in medical expenses each year.
Mail carriers have it rough here in Cleveland. Yet between the winter snows and the dogs, which one is worse?
“That’s a tough one,” Smith asid. “Really the dogs. To be honest with you, the dogs because you can’t reason with a dog.”
Smith said you should try to keep your dog away from the mailbox–even chained pets pose a risk.
The USPS has the right to refuse delivering to home it considers dangerous.
“We’re not trying to be hard cases. We’re just trying to be safe,” Smith said.
The American Veterinary Medical Association, offers are few tips:
- Don’t run past a dog. The dog’s natural instinct is to chase and catch you.
- If a dog threatens you, don’t scream. Avoid eye contact. Try to remain motionless until the dog leaves, then back away slowly until the dog is out of sight.
- Don’t approach a strange dog, especially one that’s tethered or confined.
- People choosing to pet dogs should obtain permission from the owner first and always let a dog see and sniff them before petting the animal.
- If you believe a dog is about to attack you, try to place something between yourself and the dog, such as a backpack or a bicycle.
How to Be a Responsible Dog Owner
- Obedience training can teach dogs proper behavior and help owners control their dogs.
- When a carrier comes to your home, keep your dog inside, away from the door in another room.
- Dogs can be protective of their territory and may interpret the actions of letter carriers as a threat. Please take precautions when accepting mail in the presence of your pet.
- Spay or neuter your dog. Neutered dogs are less likely to roam and bite.
- Dogs that receive little attention or handling, or are left tied up for long periods of time, frequently turn into biters.