Australia Post will equip posties with citronella spray after an alarming number of dog attacks over the last six months.
From June, posties will be given water-based citronella spray to be used as a last resort defence against aggressive dogs. The roll out will start in areas most affected before being handed to posties all over the country.
The move comes after Australia Post workers reported more than 1150 dog attacks in the last six months, with the organisation becoming worried about the welfare of their employees.
Australia Post reports that the growing frequency of parcel deliveries is increasing dog attacks, with 40 per cent taking place on a customer’s property, with half of those happening when a door is opened to sign for a parcel. Meanwhile, 57 per cent of attacks take place on the street with roaming dogs making up 39 per cent of street incidents.
The citronella spray was tested in a two-phase trial in some of the areas where posties encounter the most aggressive dogs. According to Australia Post, the testing found the citronella spray to be 80 per cent effective in causing dogs to retreat and leave posties unharmed.
In addition to these stats, Australia Post says that there are currently 35,000 dog-related hazards which are recorded in handheld devices carried by posties.
“The safety of our team members is a core value at Australia Post. Despite public awareness efforts and rigorous safety protocols, we continue to see alarming rates of dog-related incidents,” said Australia Post General Manager of Safety Russell Munro.
“The best way to avoid dog attacks is to ensure your dog is safely secured behind a locked door or gate when your Postie arrives with your parcel.”
According to Munro, citronella spray deterrent has been “largely effective”.
“We’ve identified a safe citronella spray deterrent that has proven largely effective in de-escalating incidents. When our people continue to end up in hospital, we have a responsibility to act and this is a last resort measure.”
What is citronella?
Citronella is an oil derived from the leaves and stems of lemongrass species. It is well-known for being an insect repellent but is also used to perfume things like soaps, candles and incense.
It has also been historically used in dog products such as citronella collars and shampoos and conditioners as a natural alternative to chemical-based products.
Is citronella spray safe for dogs?
In short, yes.
Citronella spray, especially when it is formulated for use with dogs, is non-toxic. However, when used improperly, dogs can suffer from skin irritations, rashes or redness from the oil.
That’s why it’s important that posties follow the guide released by Australia Post to ensure that they are using the product safely.
To avoid a postie having to use citronella spray on your dog altogether, Munro says it’s important to “make sure your dog is safely secured behind a locked door or gate when your Postie arrives with your parcel”.
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