Are you an unwary visitor in what a dog considers its territory? If so, you might be bitten. Take this quiz on handling some typical situations encountered by delivery people. It may help you prevent an injury. Answer true or false.
1. If a dog is sleeping in the side yard, you should quietly slip up to the front door and make your delivery so you don’t disturb the dog.
2. Turning away and retreating quickly from a dog will probably prevent an attack.
3. Do not carry dog biscuits with you to help you make friends with the dogs on your route.
4. Many bites occur because the dog is protective of its home territory.
5. To ensure that you have your repellent, it’s a good idea to secure it to a mail cart or your vehicle dashboard.
6. Dogs attack only if you threaten or challenge them.
7. Dogs always make their intentions known by growling or barking before they attack.
8. A storm or screen door will keep the dog inside, and from attacking you.
9. One way to protect yourself is to spray repellent on all the large dogs on your route, at least once, so that they are afraid to challenge you.
10. Talking softly to a dog, while petting it, will reassure the dog that you mean it no harm, and will reduce your chances of being bitten.
1. FALSE. Dogs have keen senses. Under these conditions, you would probably startle the dog and increase the possibility of an attack. What is the right procedure? Make a soft noise, such as a low whistle, so that the dog won’t be surprised. Keep your eye on the dog, and if you must withdraw, back up slowly and carefully to avoid a fall.
2. FALSE. Turning and running often increases the dog’s excitement and provides an opportunity for it to bite while your back is turned. What is the proper procedure? Stand your ground initially; face the dog; use your satchel as a shield; keep your repellent handy; and back away slowly and carefully to avoid a fall.
3. TRUE. Too often the dog will readily accept the treat but still not accept you. What is the proper procedure? Reassure the dog by talking in a friendly manner and using its name, if you know it. But, do this from a safe distance.
4. TRUE. Dogs instinctively recognize their owners’ premises as territorial boundaries. Before entering a customer’s property, quickly assess places that a dog may be hiding and be alert.
5. FALSE. Most attacks occur away from carts and vehicles. The correct procedure is to keep your spray with you and carry it in a location that allows you to use it quickly, if you are attacked.
6. FALSE. Dogs attack under various circumstances. Properly protect yourself by being aware of the presence of even the friendliest dogs.
7. FALSE. Many bites occur without warning. The best way to protect yourself is to stay alert and, if confronted, follow the withdrawal procedures described above.
8. FALSE. Dogs have been known to break through screen and storm doors, and to escape when the owner opens the door to get the mail. On outward opening doors, you might wish to place your foot against the bottom of the door. If the dog is in the room, ask the owner to relocate the dog before opening the door. In any case, be wary of these situations.
9. FALSE. Repellent should be used only to prevent an attack. Spraying animals unnecessarily will serve to enrage them (and their owners), and it is a violation of Postal Service regulations.
10. FALSE. Although well-intended, this approach continues to be a source of dog bites. The best safety procedure is not to pet dogs on your route, even if you know them well.
