Portland, ME – “It’s OK, he won’t bite you” is a phrase heard often by Postal letter carriers. Dog owners feel they’re being honest because the dog hasn’t bitten anyone before. But the truth is that ALL dogs will bite if they feel their territory or family is being threatened. This instinct doesn’t mean that they’re a bad dog, but realizing it exists in all animals can make you a better pet owner.

To protect your Letter Carrier and other delivery personnel make sure that your dog is inside, or restrained out of reach of your door, when you’re expecting a delivery. Before opening your door to accept or sign for a package place your pet in another room, secured out of sight of what they may consider a threatening transaction. Make sure any children in the home also understand the need to separate the family pet and a visitor at the door.

In honor of National Dog Bite Prevention Week, the Postal Service would like to offer the following reminder for pet owners: According to the Centers for Disease Control, More than 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year. Fifty percent of bites occur on the dog owner’s property and one in six bites requires medical attention. Dog bites account for more than one third of all liability claims against homeowners insurance.

Being a responsible pet owner not only protects those that may visit your home but also protects your family from the grief of having a dog removed because they bit someone or the expense that could result from having to cover a victims medical expenses.

With your help, we can keep our carriers safe as they continue to bring packages and other important correspondence to your door each day.