Avoiding Dog Bites in Warmer Weather
How Your DAs Can Avoid Dog Bites This Spring and Summer
As the weather warms up and the days grow longer, it’s not just delivery routes that heat up—so does the likelihood of encountering dogs outdoors. For your Delivery Associates (DAs), this can mean an increased risk of dog-related incidents. Dog bites may seem like an unlikely hazard, but they are a leading cause of injuries for delivery drivers year after year.
At GRYPHON™, we understand how vital it is to protect your team and your business by minimizing preventable risks. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help delivery drivers stay alert, recognize potential warning signs, and avoid dog bites on the job.
Why the Risk Increases in Warmer Weather
In spring and summer, more dogs are outdoors enjoying the sunshine alongside their owners. You’ll encounter them more frequently in yards, on porches, and on sidewalks. Many of these dogs may feel protective of their territory, especially when unfamiliar people—like delivery drivers—approach. This makes it critical for your DAs to stay situationally aware and prepared at every stop.
Tips to Stay Safe and Avoid Dog Bites
1. Stay Alert at Every Delivery Stop: Before stepping out of the van, have your DAs scan the area for any signs of dogs. Look for:
Dog bowls, toys, or leashes near the yard or porch.
"Beware of Dog" signs or fenced areas.
Dogs roaming loose or barking inside the home or near the delivery point.
If you spot any signs of a dog, proceed with caution.
2. Use Non-Verbal Communication: If a dog is present, make sure your DAs avoid sudden movements or direct eye contact, as dogs may interpret these as threats. Instead:
Keep a calm and steady demeanor.
Stand still if a dog approaches and let the dog sniff you.
Do not shout, wave your arms, or run away, as these actions may provoke the dog.
3. Carry a Dog Deterrent Kit: Your DAs can benefit from carrying basic dog deterrents, such as:
Dog Spray—Non-harmful spray to discourage aggressive dogs.
Dog Whistle—A high-frequency whistle to distract dogs.
Dog Treats—Tossing a small treat can sometimes redirect a dog’s attention.
Our recommendation is that you, as the DSP operator, provide these inexpensive tools for your team. This will save you thousands of dollars if/when an unfortunate encounter with a dog occurs.
4. Follow Safe Package Placement Protocols: When delivering to homes with dogs, instruct your DAs to always place packages in safe, visible locations to avoid triggering a territorial response. For homes with fenced yards, advise them to never enter the gate unless the customer has left specific instructions indicating it’s safe to do so.
5. Report Any Dog Incidents Immediately: If a dog behaves aggressively or there’s a near-miss, have your DAs report it immediately (on the app, so a dog paw appears next time associated with that address), also have them report it to your dispatcher or DSP supervisor. This allows your team to document the incident, take precautions for future deliveries to that address, and follow up with Amazon as/if necessary.
6. Trust Your Instincts: If a DA spots a dog and feels unsafe exiting the van, it’s okay to skip the stop—after attempting to contact the customer. Make sure your DAs and Dispatch team understand that safety comes first. Returning a package is better than risking a bite. The station manager will understand, and the team can coordinate with the customer to secure the dog and reattempt delivery.
What to Do in Case of a Dog Bite
In the unfortunate event of a dog bite, it’s important that your DAs act quickly (assuming they can). Advise them to:
Get to a Safe Place: Move to a secure area away from the dog.
Administer First Aid: Clean the wound with soap and water and apply antiseptic.
Report the Incident: Notify LMET and Dispatcher and follow your company’s incident reporting process, and seek medical attention if necessary.
Document the Incident: Take photos of the wound and write down details of what happened. This documentation may be needed for workers’ comp claims or insurance purposes.
Final Thoughts: Prevention Is Key
By staying alert, using smart delivery practices, and carrying basic deterrents, DAs can significantly reduce the risk of dog bites during the busy spring and summer months. Remember, avoiding dog bites isn’t just about protecting your DAs from injury—it’s about keeping your entire operation running smoothly by reducing preventable incidents and workers’ comp claims.
At GRYPHON™, we’re here to support DSPs and their teams with safety best practices, risk management strategies, and resources to keep drivers safe on the road. Stay safe, stay aware, and let’s work together to minimize risk and maximize success. Need more safety tips or risk management guidance? Contact GRYPHON today to schedule a safety consultation!
Remember, take control of your risk and be the guardian of your business longevity!
