'We've had some bites:' Canada Post reminding residents to keep dogs secure

EDITOR'S NOTE: This article originally appeared on our sister site CambridgeToday.

Canada Post is in the midst of its latest campaign urging residents to keep their dogs secure and away from the front door when receiving a delivery.

According to the postal operator, employees have reported over 550 dog interactions across the country this year.

David Sutherland, area manager for the region, said he's seen an increase in the number of incidents locally.

"We need the community’s cooperation with securing their pets," Sutherland said.

"We’ve had some bites, we’ve had some injuries and unpleasant experiences for the carriers."

Deliveries are made to over 200,000 homes in Cambridge, Kitchener and Waterloo per day.

The company has discouraged their staff from giving out dog treats in an effort to limit the number of possible interactions at the door.

A similar campaign was run back in May and Sutherland said it saw success.

He's now hoping it will work again as staff are worried about the recent rise.

"Our carriers have come a long way with health and safety," he said.

"I think they're fairly concerned. We're dog lovers and we understand, but when you go to work it's different. We're asking the community to take responsibility."

Sutherland emphasizes it's not just bites he's focused on preventing, as dogs can also startle carriers and create falling hazards.

As for prevention, there are a few tips residents should keep in mind.

Make sure dogs are locked away in another room or in a backyards when answering the door and don't leave them leashed in the front yard.

Keep them away from screen doors even if its locked and while out on walks ensure dogs are on a leash.

"Our biggest challenge has been interactions at the door where people have to pay and go back inside to grab a card and then their pet gets loose and there’s an attack or an altercation," Sutherland said.

"Safety is No. 1."