An Post pleads with dog owners ahead of Christmas as incidents increase

As postal deliveries start to increase ahead of Christmas, An Post is appealing to dog owners to keep their pets under control.

118 incidents of varying degrees of severity have been recorded, compared to 99 in the same period last year.    

While An Post employees are provided with information and guidance in managing dog risks, it is the responsibility of the dog owner to keep control of their animal while post is being delivered.   

Even the friendliest of dogs can be upset by callers to their home or grounds, or by vehicles in the vicinity. 

However, responsibility for controlling a dog rests with its owner, and An Post is asking all householders to ensure their pets are securely contained while deliveries are being made.   

Noel Lacey, Head of Group Safety for An Post appealed for the public’s support.

"Dog-related incidents remain a significant concern for An Post," he said.  

"While our people follow established safety guidance and remain vigilant, preventing these incidents ultimately depends on dogs being kept securely under control when deliveries are being made. Even a normally placid dog can react unexpectedly to a person entering a property or approaching a doorway, gate or driveway. We ask all dog owners to help keep both people and animals safe by ensuring their pets are properly secured during deliveries."  

The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) says that a person approaching a home or garden can make some dogs feel worried or under threat.