A steep rise in dog attacks on postal and delivery workers across the SN postcode area has prompted renewed warnings from both Royal Mail and Wiltshire Police, as local figures reveal a 60% year-on-year increase in reported incidents.
The SN area — which spans Swindon, Chippenham, Calne, Corsham, Devizes, Malmesbury, Melksham, and Pewsey — has been named one of the ten worst postcode regions in the country for dog-related attacks on Royal Mail employees, with 40 incidents reported between July 2023 and July 2024. This marks the first time the region has entered the top ten nationally for such reports.
Royal Mail, which has long campaigned for better protection for its workers, has again urged dog owners to think carefully about how they manage pets during postal and parcel deliveries.
A spokesperson for the Royal Mail Group stated: “Dog attacks have a devastating effect on our people. We are appealing to dog owners to think twice when the postperson calls. All dog attacks can have life-changing consequences, even where the physical injuries are not severe. We need the public to do their bit to help reduce the risk.”
Almost half of all reported attacks occur at the front door, with over a quarter taking place in the front garden, according to Royal Mail’s internal data. Delivery staff from other companies are also vulnerable to these incidents, not just those from Royal Mail.
Wiltshire Police have echoed these concerns, offering practical advice to pet owners. PC Paul Croft, a dog handling officer with the force, said: “We take all reports of dog attacks seriously. These incidents can result in long-term physical and emotional harm for victims. We would urge residents to take care when opening their doors to delivery workers. Take a moment to secure your dog, whether that’s placing them in another room, behind a stair gate, or in a crate. Also, avoid leaving dogs unsupervised in gardens that provide access to delivery workers.”
The increase in incidents has sparked wider debate about responsibility and awareness. Police and postal services alike are encouraging local residents to adopt simple safety measures — especially as more people order goods online, increasing the frequency of visits from couriers and postal staff.
Members of the public who see a loose or seemingly out-of-control dog are urged to report it online or via 101. More advice can be found on the Wiltshire Police and Royal Mail websites.
