A recent report from the United States Postal Service (USPS) has revealed that Ohio ranks among the top three states for dog attacks on mail carriers, with a significant increase in incidents reported in 2023.
According to USPS data, more than 5,800 dog bites were reported nationwide last year, up from approximately 5,300 in 2022. Ohio recorded 359 dog bites involving mail carriers, placing it third in the country. California led with 727 incidents, followed by Texas with 411.
Other states rounding out the top ten for dog bite incidents include Pennsylvania (334), Illinois (316), New York (296), Florida (193), North Carolina (185), Michigan (183), and Missouri (180).
In Ohio, three cities ranked among the top ten for dog bites targeting mail carriers. Cleveland took fifth place with 44 reported incidents, followed by Cincinnati at eighth with 38, and Columbus, which came in tenth with 33. Nationwide, Los Angeles saw the highest number of attacks, with 65 incidents, followed by Houston (56) and Chicago (48).
“Letter carriers face various hazards daily, with canine encounters being one of the most common,” said Leeann Theriault, a USPS manager. “Even one interaction can lead to serious injury for a letter carrier. The U.S. Postal Service continually advocates for responsible pet ownership.”
To help prevent dog attacks during mail delivery, USPS recommends that dog owners take proactive measures. This includes securing dogs inside the house or behind a fence, placing them in another room away from the door, or keeping them on a leash before a mail carrier arrives.
Dog attacks can also have financial repercussions for pet owners. In 2023, the average cost for a dog bite insurance claim was $58,545, as reported by the Insurance Information Institute. Ohio ranked fifth for the most dog bite claims filed in the U.S.
When a postal worker is injured due to a dog attack, the dog’s owner may face liability for medical expenses, lost wages, and costs related to uniform replacement. Additionally, if a mail carrier feels threatened by a dog, the owner may be required to pick up their mail directly from the local post office.
Related topics:
Unlocking Puppy Potential: Key Developmental Milestones for Effective Training
Gastonia Police K9 Bo Nominated for National “Hero Dog” Award
Golden Retriever’s Heartfelt Pout at Day Care Stirs Emotions
