National Dog Bite Prevention Week

Nationwide, 6,500 postal carriers have been bitten and attacked while on the job in 2015. That’s according to claim reports from State Farm Insurance.
Pocatello Letter Carrier Casey Rubidoux says preparedness is key in terms of dog bite prevention throughout his route.

“I don’t use my dog spray, it’s kind of a last resort,” said Rubidoux.

A last resort for Rubidoux as he goes along his route in Pocatello. In any case, he’s ready.

“Obviously, we know dogs are there. First step, we like to be preventative, we like to identify what houses have dogs. Usually we notice around fences and yards, by passing in the yard or by barking. We also try to educate the public.”

According to State Farm, for each year, more than 4 million people are bitten or attacked by dogs, with over half to children.
“So, we hope that from what the numbers are showing, that pet owners are keeping an eye on that. And making sure children and animals are safely interacting,” said Summer Jackman, State Farm Agent, Pocatello.

“Be leery, be able to identity where the dogs are at ahead of time if you can,” said Rubidoux.

State Farm Insurance ranks Idaho 41st for the number of dog-related claims in 2015.