Fremont Mail Carriers Get Training to Prevent Dog Bites

FREMONT, CA — In early January, the Postmaster from Fremont contacted Fremont Police Animal Services and inquired about training for their postal carriers on how to handle aggressive dogs.

Animal Service Officers Clark and Cattaneo developed a training curriculum and over the course of three mornings, provided training for postal carriers at three local post offices in Fremont.

Dozens of postal carriers attended and learned tips and suggestions on how to handle aggressive animals, and, more specifically, how to avoid getting bit by a dog.

Animal Service Officers Clark and Cattaneo offered basic tips on how to read a dog, what not to do, and if it does happen, why Fremont Animal Services needs to be notified and get involved. Some of the tips included:

• Do not run—very few human beings can outrun a dog and if you run, they will give chase.
• Stand still and do not turn your back to the dog, instead turn sideways.
• Do not stare at the dog, this is a challenge.
• Use whatever you have with you to provide a barrier between you and the animal such as your mail sack, a package (box), or a clipboard.
• Always be cautious—even if someone tells you “their” dog won’t bite, stay on guard as you never know what a dog is thinking or how it will react.
• If you do happen to get bit by a dog, immediately contact Fremont Animal Services at 510-790-6635.

The postal carriers had several questions for the animal service officers, and it was surprising how many of them had been bit by dogs while working.

Animal Services was grateful to have the opportunity to meet with our local postal carriers. We’re hopeful that the training will result in reduced injuries to postal carriers!

Learn more about the Fremont Police Department’s Animal Services Unit by visiting www.Fremontpolice.org/AnimalServices.

--Announcement from City of Fremont; Image via morguefile