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Dozens of posties have been attacked by dogs in the past year as they go about delivering our mail.

Across the GL postcode area, 31 postal workers have suffered at the jaws of savage pet pooches.

While the figure is down by eight per cent on the previous year, nationally there have been 2,275 dog attacks on postmen and women between April 2017 and April 2018.

In Gloucestershire the figure is down by nine per cent Royal Mail and unions say “one attack is one attack too many”.

(Image: PA)

On average there are 44 attacks taking place each week in the UK some causing life-changing injuries and forcing postal staff to struggle with their jobs.

As can be expected the majority of the attacks (82 per cent) happened at the front door or in the front garden with a rise during the summer months when dogs are more likely to be out in the garden.

Royal Mail is appealing to dog owners in Gloucestershire to make sure they understand the impact of dog attacks on people who “are only doing their job”.

Dr Shaun Davis, Royal Mail Group global director of safety, health, wellbeing and sustainability said: “One attack is still one attack too many. Our research continues to show that attacks happen most often in the summer, so we are continuing our campaign to appeal to customers to help us cut attacks across the UK.

“I am pleased that the overall dog attacks numbers continue to fall, but I am still very concerned that in some postcodes attacks are on the increase. I am appealing to dog owners to think twice when the postman calls.

“Dog attacks have a devastating effect on our people and on our customers and we hope we can make a further impact in these areas."

Dave Joyce, national health and safety officer for the Communication Workers' Union said: “We are appealing to all customers who are dog owners to work with us and think TWICE when the postman calls.

“Put the dog away in secure room before opening the door to collect and sign for your delivery.

“The vast majority of our customers and their dogs aren't a problem but irresponsible and reckless dog owners are.

“Customers are always pleased to see the postman or postwoman arrive as they’re eager to take delivery of the goods they’ve ordered but thousands of them unfortunately don’t give a second thought to the postal worker’s safety by putting the dog in a safe, secure place.

“There are tough court penalties and a criminal record for irresponsible dog owners including prison and unlimited fines so it’s in their best interest in more ways than one to make sure the dog doesn’t bite the postman or woman.”

(Image: stock)

For more advice on training your dog and details of your nearest dog school, visit www.dogstrustdogschool.org.uk .

Visit www.royalmail.com/dogawareness and www.royalmailgroup.com/dogs for hints and tips on dog safety.

Some hints and tips include: