10 Most Popularly Photographed Dog Breeds Of Instagram

Top 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds

What makes a pup popular? There are many reasons why these dogs made it onto the Most Popular Dog Breeds list. Here are the top 10 breeds that the AKC named as very good dogs! Show us someone who doesn’t love dogs and we’ll show you someone who doesn’t have a heart. These loving and lovely animals are beloved by humans everywhere. They remain the best of all possible pets (sorry cat-lovers, but you know it’s true!). Yet, there are so many different doggos out there. It can be hard to choose which one to bring into your home. Still, people do it every year by the millions. Dogs are everywhere and in all shapes and sizes. But which dogs are the most popular? Which breeds always find themselves at the head of the pack? We’re just as curious as you! So to uncover that answer, we’re going to rely on the American Kennel Club. No one would know better than them which pups are selling in record numbers. Every year the good folks at the American Kennel Club (AKC) run a survey of dog registrations to determine which breeds rule our hearts. The data is gathered, tabulated, and out comes AKC’s listing of the Top 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds. Now we all know the Labrador Retriever has continued to top the charts for the past 26 years. That’s just a fact. The Lab is loved. However, what about those breeds who will be forever the bridesmaid and never the bride? Let’s take a look at those breeds that made the coveted Most Popular Dog Breeds list… but from the bottom up. These are the ten most popular dogs, other than the perpetual crowdpleaser: the Labrador Retriever. We’ll get to them. Just wait. 10. Boxer

Top 10 Most Popular Teacup Dog Breeds

The smallest of pooches falls into the category known as teacup dog breeds. Even if you’re name isn’t Paris, these tiny bundles of love will steal your heart! Pinkies up and best behavior needed as we take a look at the tiniest of the tiny dogs – teacup dog breeds. These wee ones are so small they don’t even fall within the American Kennel Club (AKC)’s criterion for their “toy” group (which is to weigh a minimum of 4 to 6 pounds). Yes, this is the controversial under-4-pounds-when-fully-grown group that brings lots of love but also lots of health and care concerns as they come in extra-fragile packaging. Still want to fill up your cup with this teeny pup? Let’s look at 10 of the most popular teacup dog breeds: Teacup Chihuahua

Top 10 Most Popular Hound Dog Breeds

Let’s talk hound dog breeds! Not the iconic “you ain’t nothing but…” pooch of song made famous by Elvis but the different breeds that fall under the term “hound”. While all hound dog breeds were originally bred for the chase or the hunt, many of today’s dogs have found their true calling – that of companion animal – and they chase nothing more than an errant treat under the sofa or the family cat. That’s not to say these clever boys have been decommissioned, in fact the physical traits that made them inherently ideal for work in the field such as a heightened sense of smell, superior long-range vision and physical prowess are still very much intact and need to be taken into consideration by new pet parents thinking about adopting a hound dog breed. So, let’s take a look at some of the most popular hound dog breeds. Bloodhound

American Kennel Club Announces America’s 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds

Top 10 Dog Breeds That Shed the Most

You’re never fully dressed without some dog hair clinging to your clothes! If you don’t mind the fuzz, here are the dog breeds that shed the most. While my gal-pals are non-shedding Schnoodles that require regular grooming by a seasoned pro, I’m always surprised to find those non-Poodle breeds (think Retrievers and Terriers) quietly perched atop the grooming stations as they endure a comb-out. I mean, why spring big bucks to have someone bathe and groom your pooch if you can get by with just regular brushing, right? Truth is, for some breeds even a daily brushing does nothing more than skim debris from their surface coat. It takes a really deep de-shedding session to get down to the undercoat and remove all that fluffy loose hair before it envelopes your life each time the seasons change. So, what causes some breeds to shed more than others? It’s typically down to having a thick double-coat with a soft, downy under-layer that provides warmth topped by coarse layer of hair that delivers waterproof protection from the elements. Your dog will gradually shed both coats throughout the year, but it will be particularly heavy when temperatures change and he needs to prepare for the growth of a new coat. The term used for this type of extra heavy shedding is “blowing his coat” and the visual it instills pretty much sums it up. This hairy period of time happens when Spring turns to Summer and when Fall turns to Winter and whether you try to stay on top of it yourself or decide to bring in the pros, you can bet that a quality brush and lint roller are about to become your favorite home accessories. Want to know which breeds are best at leaving a furry trail in their wake? Here are 10 of the top offenders plus tips on tools to keep those fluffy tumbleweeds at bay. Beagle

UK Law Commands Serious Jail Time for Pet Theft

Recently introduced private member's bill received Royal Assent to make it a law.

What Is Reverse Sneezing in Dogs?

Reverse sneezing, also known as inspiratory paroxysmal respiration, is a condition that often worries dog owners because of its dramatic presentation. Unlike regular, common sneezing, which involves expelling air out through the nose, reverse sneezing occurs when a dog rapidly pulls air into its nose. This phenomenon is characterized by sudden, repeated, and forceful inhalations through the nose, accompanied by a snorting sound that can be quite alarming to those unfamiliar with the condition. But is it a cause for worry? Here’s the scoop on this weird behavior.What Is Reverse Sneezing in Dogs?What reverse sneezing essentially is is a spasm of the throat and the soft palate. During an episode, the dog’s airway temporarily narrows, causing the dog to extend its neck and make loud snorting noises as it tries to clear the irritation. These episodes are usually brief, lasting from a few seconds to a couple of minutes, and they typically resolve on their own without intervention. There are several key factors that can trigger reverse sneezing in dogs. Here are some common causes:#1 Irritants:Environmental irritants, such as pollen, dust, perfumes, and smoke can all cause reverse sneezing. Dogs with allergies, or those exposed to new or strong scents are particularly susceptible. For dogs with allergies, supplements can be of great help in managing symptoms and even relieving them altogether.

Viral TikTok Video Shares the Joy of a Rescue Dog Reunited with Friend

Adopting a rescue dog can be a challenge at the best of times. Having gone through multiple homes/environments, sometimes without the attention to training or socialization that helps to create that “ideal pet,” rescue parents find themselves trying to navigate various challenges and obstacles. Not that it takes away from the benefits of being a rescue pet parent – having only ever rescued our dogs and cats, I can attest to just how much love these amazing pets have to give!  One struggle many rescue pets will need to overcome is leaving behind the other pets they have previously connected or bonded with. This could include pets that they are housed with in shelter environments or those that they live with in foster homes. While some become SO incredibly bonded that organizations decide they can only be adopted together, others try to increase their chances of being adopted by offering the pets individually. This was the situation with Celeste, a beautiful and loving rescue dog that was adopted by TikTok user goosegooseduckling. However, they never could have predicted how this story would unfold… A few months after adopting the pup and bringing her into their Indiana home, Celeste’s new mom, Michelle, decided to introduce her to the neighbor’s dog. However, a short conversation with the neighbor revealed something amazing… Celeste and her new neighbor were best friends in the shelter before they were adopted! Offering even more insight into the incredible situation, Michelle wrote: “What a small world! Today we found out that our next door neighbor’s dog was adopted from the same shelter, nearly 2 hours away from where we live. They were both rescued as young pups, and each spent 9 months at the shelter… with a 6-month overlap. This was their first time seeing each other since being adopted.”The video of the two dogs running and playing has now gone viral on TikTok, with over 300 comments and 7.6K likes. It’s a reminder of the many emotions a dog in the shelter system can experience—from meeting new friends to leaving them behind for their new forever home. However, Celeste would come to enjoy the best of both worlds!

Which Spring Flowers Are Toxic to Dogs?

Springtime is such a joyful time of the year. The harsh and gloomy winter days are finally over, and nature is awakening – the sun is shining, trees are blooming, and life erupts all over again. But that doesn’t mean that there are no downsides to this season. From spring allergies to spring shedding, there are also quite a few things that don’t spark joy when spring comes. One of those unexpected things that become a downside of spring when you’re a dog is flowers. Yup. Those gorgeous, lush-smelling blooms that appear in the spring can pose a threat to your dog, as many spring flowers are toxic to our canine friends.So without further ado, let’s see which of these pretty, colorful flowers are potentially dangerous for dogs – so you’ll know exactly which of them to avoid planting in your garden or putting in a vase.Which Spring Flowers Are Toxic to Dogs?As we all know, dogs are inquisitive and love to nibble and sniff all sorts of odd things, flowers included. This is why you should be vigilant in the spring when many potentially toxic plant varieties are in season. Keep an eye out for the following flowers when walking your pet out and about or when picking out seeds for your flower beds!Daffodils

What Can I Do If My Dog Runs Away During Fireworks?

When the celebrations begin and the fireworks are brought out, they can become a source of anxiety and fear for many dogs, and it is not uncommon for them to run away in panic. If your pet happens to run away because of fireworks, it can be a distressing experience for sure – both for you and them – but it is crucial to remain as calm as possible and take action to find them as soon as possible. Here is what you need to know in order to locate your pet quickly and to prevent any future escapes.What Can I Do If My Dog Runs Away During Fireworks?Fireworks are a big part of festivities such as Fourth of July, New Years Eve, and even smaller celebrations, such as people’s weddings and birthdays. Often, you cannot prevent this, as fireworks can be released by neighbors or at the town square. And even if you are near your pooch, one moment can be enough for them to bolt off. Here is what to do if that happens:#1 Stay calm:First of all, it is essential to stay calm and composed. Keep a level head, as panicking won’t help you think clearly or act effectively. Take a few deep breaths and start your search methodically.#2 Check your home and immediate surroundings:Dogs often don’t go far at first. Thoroughly search your home, yard, and nearby areas. Look under porches, in bushes, and any hiding spots they might find comforting. #3 Call and listen:Walk around the neighborhood calling your dog’s name. Pause and listen for any sounds of movement or barking in response. Sometimes, a frightened doggo may be nearby but too scared to come out immediately.#4 Use a familiar scent:Leave out your dog’s bedding, favorite toys, and some pieces of your clothing. The familiar smells can lure them back home. Placing their food and water outside can also help. Remember that dogs have super powerful noses and will pick up scents with ease. To help broaden your search, you can also inform your neighbors about your missing pet. Provide them with a description and your contact information. Neighbors can keep an eye out and may have already seen your pet. Similarly, you can post about your missing dog on local social media groups, such as Facebook community pages, Nextdoor, and other neighborhood forums. Include a clear photo, a description, and your contact details. The more people are aware, the better the chances of finding your dog. If enough time passes, you can also visit the nearby animal shelters, rescue organizations, and vet clinics. Bring a recent photo of your dog with you or easier identification. Leave your contact information and check back regularly.Another great idea is to make flyers with a clear photo of your pooch, a fitting description, and your contact information. Distribute them around your neighborhood, in local businesses, and public areas. This traditional method can still be very effective.Preventing Your Pet Runs Away Or Gets Lost Due to FireworksOnce you find your pet it is important to take steps to prevent this from ever happening again. Here are some basic steps to take:#1 Secure your home and your yard: Ensure that your house and yard are secure. Check for any weak spots in the fence, or find areas where your pet could escape. #2 Microchip:Make sure your dog is microchipped and that the information is up-to-date. In addition to a microchip, your dog should always wear a collar with an ID tag that includes your current phone number.

Sphynx Cats Have the Lowest Lifespan of All Domestic Cats, Study Finds

Looking for a new feline companion to take home? Before you start researching cat breeders or head to the local shelter, keep in mind that not all cats live to a ripe old age. Researchers from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) and the National Chung Hsing University in Taiwan created life tables of the annual life expectancy of cats in the United Kingdom. Based on their findings, the hairless Sphynx cat has the lowest life expectancy of all cat breeds, living for only six and a half years, on average. The first-of-its-kind study of companion cat varieties was published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery. The team of researchers created the very first “life tables” for different cat breeds, which predict the remaining life expectancy and probability of death. Life tables have been used in human public health for years, but have recently started being used for cats and dogs. “Understanding typical remaining lifespan can also support owners and veterinarians while making complex decisions about the best treatment option to protect a cat’s overall wellbeing,” said researchers. Although they look timeless, the Sphynx cat has a surprisingly low life expectancy of 6.7 years. Researchers noted that Sphynx cats are at an increased risk of several diseases that might be the leading cause of their shorter-than-average lifespan. For this study, researchers used data from 7,936 veterinary-registered cats in the United Kingdom that died between January 1, 2019, and March 31, 2021. Data showed that the average life expectancy for cats is 11.7 years. Interestingly, researchers discovered that female cats have a longer life expectancy (12.5 years) than male cats (11.2 years).The team also found that cats that haven’t been neutered have shorter lifespans. Cats with normal weight tend to have a longer lifespan than underweight or overweight felines. The study discovered that crossbred cats have a longer life expectancy than purebred cats. Crossbred felines have an average life expectancy of 11.9 years, while purebreds have an average lifespan of 10.4 years.Based on the data, Birman and Burmese cats have the longest life expectancy of all cat breeds, with kittens in their first year of life expected to live on average 14.4 years. Next were crossbred cats, which usually live around 11.9 years, followed by Siamese cats, with an average lifespan of 11.7 years. Using the available data, researchers calculated that Persian cats have an average lifespan of 10.9 years, followed by Ragdoll cats (10 years), Maine coon cats (9.7 years), Russian cats (9.7 years), British cats (9.6 years), and Bengal cats (8.5 years). The study also discovered that purebred cats have a 1.83 higher chance of dying before three years of age than crossbred cats. According to researchers, understanding these numbers is important because they offer an idea of what the future holds. “Essentially what we’re doing is we’re giving some level of statistical certainty, where previously it was just guesswork,” said Dr. Dan O’Neill, a co-author of the study from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC). This data can be important for prospective owners, vets, and rehoming organizations, and can also be helpful for people who may be evaluating the value of expensive and painful surgery or medication for their cat. “Essentially, this is now giving the power to the public. If somebody’s priority is they want a cat that is going to defer death for as long as possible, on average, we now have the evidence to say [get a] female and crossbred [cat].” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Is It Safe For Dogs To Swim In The Ocean?

Most dogs are very capable swimmers. And many of them love to take a dip whenever possible. They might not like baths at home, but they will surely love to dive right into a lake, pond, or river. But what about those big bodies of water – lakes, seas, and more importantly, the ocean? These can be a bit scary and sometimes unpredictable, so owners are naturally apprehensive when it comes to their precious pet swimming in them. However, swimming in the ocean can be a fun and invigorating activity for dogs, offering them a chance to cool off, exercise, and explore a new environment. But even so, as a responsible pet owner, it's essential to understand the potential risks and take appropriate precautions to keep your furry friend safe. Here’s what you need to know before your pooch splashes around.Is It Safe For Dogs To Swim In The Ocean?While most dogs naturally enjoy splashing in the waves, the ocean presents unique challenges that require careful consideration. There are some important factors to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable ocean swimming experience for your dog and to fully enjoy your carefree days at the beach.Of course, it goes without saying that you should first observe the water and its surface, and to try and determine if it is safe to swim in. Ensure the water is clean and free of potentially harmful bacteria, algae, or pollutants. Avoid areas with red tides, dead fish, or signs warning of contamination. The next logical step is to consider the elements. If the weather is rough and the ocean seems “rowdy”, then it is best to avoid swimming. Be aware of the strength of its currents and waves that can be unpredictable. Strong undertows or large waves can be dangerous, especially for smaller dogs or less skilled swimmers. If your pet is not a proficient swimmer, you should make sure to get them a dog life jacket even when the water seems perfectly calm. Pick one in bright colors so your pet is easier to spot in case of an emergency – ideally with reflective details, too, for better visibility in low light conditions.

What to Know About Dehydration in Cats

As a pet parent, it’s important to know about the risk of dehydration in cats. When the body is dehydrated, organs and bodily systems are negatively impacted and electrolyte imbalances occur, and if the dehydration worsens, it could be fatal.There are multiple causes of dehydration, and there are several symptoms that will alert you to the fact that your kitty isn’t hydrated. Keep reading to learn the basics so you’ll know what to look for and what you can do to help prevent this problem.

How Do I Stop My Cat From Waking Me up at Night?

As cat parents, we all love our feline family members. But that love doesn’t erase the frustration that comes with your cat turning into a furry alarm clock at precisely 3 am every morning. Why are they even up at that hour?In this article, we’ll address exactly that—the reasons for your cat’s nighttime activities and the steps you can take to reclaim your sleep once and for all.Let’s not waste any time…Why Does My Cat Wake Me Up Every Night? Having your sleep disturbed by your cat every night can be frustrating. But before you get upset with your furry friend, consider asking yourself why. Why are they waking you up? Why are they unable to settle in? There is a possibility that this could be your cat’s way of asking for or alerting you to something important. Here are a few of the more common reasons: Pain or Medical Problems This is most common in cats that once used to settle in fine and are now changing their nighttime routine. If your cat is feeling “off,” whether it’s due to discomfort or pain, it may be preventing them from relaxing or sleeping at night. To rule this out, you must make an appointment with your veterinarian. Pay careful attention to any other signs of trouble, including: Panting Changes in eating habits “Accidents” or failure to use their litterbox like usual Excessive vocalization (meowing, howling, hissing)Loss of interest in toys, furniture, or activities they once loved Overgrooming or failure to groom Hiding or reluctance to be handledIrritability or uncharacteristic aggression When you speak with your veterinarian, explain all behavior changes or reasons for concern that you have recorded. If you're unsure, we recommend keeping a journal. This will help you spot patterns and red flags. Feline Dementia Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) in cats is similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans. As our cats get older, one of the unfortunate age-related symptoms they suffer is a change in their mental state. They may start to act confused, seem unfamiliar with their surroundings, stare blankly into space, or struggle to follow household rules that were once deeply ingrained. If your cat has CDS, they may vocalize loudly at night because they don’t remember where they are or can’t find you. This behavior is often a sign of feeling anxious, fearful, or stressed out. Cat parents who know they have a kitty with CDS may need to keep their cat in a contained “safe place” at night to prevent them from wandering and becoming lost, as it can be incredibly distressing for them. Feeling Hungry Do you have a cat that is highly food-driven? I do! Speaking from experience, an empty food dish can trigger quite a commotion. Our food-driven cat Jinx is quick to let us know when she’s hungry and doesn’t have access to something tasty. In the same way, it could also be your cat’s way of letting you know that their water dish or fountain is running low. Lack of Daytime Activity/Stimulation Cats require mental and physical exercise throughout their day to live a happy, healthy life. When they don’t have this, they can feel bored and exhibit “bad” behaviors like scratching furniture, tearing about the toilet paper, overgrooming, or becoming overly vocal. Much like the cats who are trying to communicate that their food or water dishes are empty, these cats are trying to tell you that they are missing something essential in their lives. It is most common in cats living in a smaller space with few opportunities to engage in their natural behaviors, such as climbing, scratching, hunting, and hiding. Feeling Lonely Despite their aloof and sassy personalities, cats are actually social animals. This is why you find stray cats living in colonies. Your cat’s social needs can be met by you, other people in the house, a second cat (or third or fourth…), or even another animal, like a dog. But they need to have someone they can connect with. Are you your cat’s person? Even if you spend a few hours focused entirely on them before heading to bed, your absence may be difficult for them. Cats can experience separation anxiety, even if the only separation is that you are in a different room, leaving them alone. Differing SchedulesCats are naturally most active at dawn and dusk, which is known as being crepuscular. While some cats will adjust their schedules to match their human family members a little closer, doing so goes against their natural instincts (unless you work a night shift). Other crepuscular pets include hamsters, rats, mice, rabbits, ferrets, and chinchillas. Your cat will likely wake up to get attention or play with you throughout the day, but they will also take many naps. Our cats spend much of their day stretched out in a patch of sunshine, soaking up the warmth and recharging. In general, cats are most energetic first thing in the morning as the sun rises and again just as the average person is getting ready for bed.

Does My Dog Need a Stroller?

Is a dog stroller a necessity or an extravagant splurge? While some may raise an eyebrow at the site of a dog riding comfortably in their stroller, these seemingly luxury items offer many benefits for both dogs and their owners. From providing a safe and comfortable way to transport your dog in various settings to accommodating mobility concerns and enhancing their quality of life, let’s explore why a dog stroller may be a great choice for your dog. Plus, I’ll share tips for choosing the best dog stroller for your pup and how to incorporate it effectively into your daily routine. What Are Dog Strollers? Let’s start at the beginning. What exactly are dog strollers? Are they the same as baby strollers? Can the two be used interchangeably? While dog strollers look similar to baby strollers in many ways, they have a few key features that differentiate the two. Most importantly, dog strollers incorporate a way to keep your dog secured and held in place so they can’t hop out and escape, like a zippered mesh cover or a leash attachment that can be hooked to their harness. They are often described as a “fancy dog crate on wheels.” The most basic models are soft-sided dog crates with wheels and a handle. But most offer other features, like adjustable or padded handlebars, cup holders, storage pockets and compartments, sunshades, and ramps for easy access. Is it Okay to Put Your Dog in a Stroller? An important question that every pet parent should ask when being introduced to a new product is whether it’s actually safe and beneficial for your pet. After all, just because it’s being sold and marketed doesn’t mean it’s good for them. When it comes to dog strollers, the answer is “maybe.” If you have a healthy dog, only taking them out in a stroller and not making space for the exercise and physical activity they require can lead to a whole list of health problems. However, there are many situations where a dog stroller can be used to improve your dog’s quality of health. In short, this means that, yes, there are times when it is okay to put your dog in a stroller. It is our responsibility as dog parents to recognize the right time and place for their use. Are Dog Strollers Only for Small Dogs? One of the most common misconceptions about dog strollers is that they are only designed for small dogs or toy breeds. While this is arguably the most common type of dog stroller on the market, it’s not the only option. Recognizing the benefits these products offer, many brands now make dog strollers with larger dogs in mind. This includes creating sturdier frames that can support heavier weights, offering more room for large dogs to sit or lie down comfortably, and even adding features like ramps to help our larger friends get in and out of the stroller when lifting them isn’t an option. A great example is the HPZ Pet Rover Titan-HD, designed for dogs up to 100 LBS. So, while your standard stroller may not be the right solution (not without breaking it), big dog strollers are available!

Dog Nurturing Cherry Tomato Goes Viral on TikTok

Juicy, ripe treat brings out the maternal side of this little dog.

Strict Rules for Bringing Your Dog Across the US Border Start Aug 1st

All the Canadians who were considering bringing their pooches across the U.S. border are now facing new and very strict rules. Coming into effect August 1st, this new rule will require all owners to own vet-approved documentation that would prove that the dog was vaccinated against rabies. All those who were used to journeying to the USA will have to navigate these strict new regulations. The new rules were introduced by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and prevent casual crossing of the international border with a canine. Instead, owners are required to present papers to the CDC in advance of a planned trip, and thus prove that their pooch is healthy, vaccinated against rabies, and has a valid microchip. In simpler terms, spontaneous travel to the USA is no longer possible.So, beginning this August 1st, your dog will have to be at least six months old to travel to the U.S. and fulfill all the conditions above as well. Of course, owners have to be understanding too: these new measures are there to keep the U.S. free of rabies. One additional condition on the list is a requirement that “your dog hasn’t been in one of over 100 countries where rabies is not under control, in the previous six months.”To help owners fully understand all these - and other - regulations, the CDC launched its special DogBot application that makes everything easier to understand. Even so, many owners are finding these changes radical. For years, taking your dog across the U.S. border was simple, regulated by border officials, and required few if any documents. But that is all about to change coming this August. Owners will have to complete a string of tasks before even considering travel. Vaccinations, vet visits, microchips – the list is hefty and mandatory. Many owners concluded that this new rule implies treating a dog as “chattel”, a thing you own, and not a friend and family member. But it’s not just the perception, but rather the unnecessary complications that come with it – you have to have a form filled out by a vet, to ensure that the microchip your pet has is compatible with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). This brings up the question of whether the chips issued by vets are compatible with the ISO. So far, there is no explanation issued by the CDC to resolve this. The new rules also affect doggos that are younger than six months and thus cannot be vaccinated against rabies. Before, they could enter the U.S., but now this is no longer possible. Besides, the new rules and form requirements will be an additional expense for owners, who would already be burdened with the costs of travel.Needless to say, the regulations will also have major implications for breeders, show dog owners, rescue organizations, and others. “If you don’t follow CDC’s rules, your dog won’t be allowed to enter the United States,” warns the CDC. “If denied entry, your dog will be sent back to the last country of departure at your expense. Country of departure is where the last trip originated - not where the dog was born or where it lives.”

The U.S. Postal Service Just Released Its National Dog Bite Rankings

Not all dogs are friendly and calm, and U.S. Postal employees know this all too well. Just in the last year, incidents involving dog attacks on Postal Service employees have risen to more than 5,800 cases. In an effort to raise awareness of these issues, the organization started the USPS 2024 National Dog Bite Awareness Campaign and is now offering key guidelines on how dog owners can help foster a better environment for safe mail delivery. Starting on June 2nd and running through June 9th, the campaign is running under the slogan “Don’t let your dog bite the hand that serves you.” Supporters can also spread awareness on social media, with the hashtag # dogbiteawareness.“Letter carriers are exposed to potential hazards every day, none more prevalent than a canine encounter. All it takes is one interaction for a letter carrier to possibly suffer an injury,” said Leeann Theriault, USPS Manager, Employee Safety and Health Awareness. “The U.S. Postal Service consistently encourages responsible pet ownership. The national dog bite campaign is an effort to promote dog bite awareness to keep our customers, their dogs, and letter carriers safe while delivering the mail.”Letter carriers are aware that dogs can be unpredictable, and even those who seem docile can bite unexpectedly. This is because doggos are usually protective of their home and are suspicious of strangers, even if they are just postal employees. They are now trying to emphasize the importance of dog owners ensuring safer mail delivery. As most people know the usual time a postman comes each day, it should be easier to secure their pets and minimize the risk of dangerous situations. When a postal employee comes to your home, try to keep your dogs inside the house or behind a secured fence, away from the door, or on a leash. Besides this, owners can now use Informed Delivery, a new and free USPS service, which allows customers to digitally preview any incoming mail and packages from their computer, tablet, or smartphone. Since the service launched in 2017, it garnered more than 52 million customers. Sign-up is possible at informeddelivery.usps.com. All dog owners can now anticipate the arrival of the postman and prepare accordingly. Dog bites can be harmful and costly too. Information from the Insurance Information Institute reveals that the average cost per insurance claim for a dog bite is $64,555. When a postal employee gets bitten, the owner can end up responsible for lost wages, medical bills, uniform replacement costs, and the pain and suffering that the employee endured.Of course, all postal employees are trained to observe an area where they know dogs are present. They have to remain alert and expect dangerous conditions. But also they have to respect a dog’s territory and their natural instinct. Overall, they are trained to never startle a dog, never attempt to pet or feed them, keep their eyes on the dog, and lastly to never assume a dog will not bite. They are also instructed to use a dog repellant if necessary and try to protect their vital areas.“Even though a customer’s dog is friendly to most people, it can always have a bad day,” said letter carrier Tara Snyder. “I know, from experience, even when a dog is in the house, customers need to make sure their door is secure so their dog can’t push it open and bite the letter carrier.”As a stark glimpse into the rate of dog bites on postal employees, a ranking was released as a part of this campaign. This lists the top 20 cities where dog bites occurred in 2023. Leading the list at number one is Los Angeles, with 65 attacks reported, followed by Houston and Chicago, with 56 and 58 attacks respectively. As for the states, the most reported attacks occurred in California, 727 in total.