Dublin Tops List of Counties for Pet Attacks on Irish Postal Workers

An Post has released data showing that Dublin recorded the highest number of pet attacks on postal workers in Ireland this year.

The postal service reported 47 incidents in Dublin, which resulted in 101 working days lost due to injury or absence. Nationwide, there were 118 total incidents involving animals in 2026.

This figure represents a 19% increase compared to the same period in 2025, when 99 incidents were recorded. Cork, Kildare, Limerick, and Meath completed the top five counties for animal-related attacks. Only four counties, Leitrim, Longford, Westmeath, and Cavan, had no recorded incidents this year.

Noel Lacey, Head of Group Safety for An Post, stated on Newstalk Breakfast that dog attacks constitute the majority of animal-related injuries, accounting for the high 90s percent of cases. He noted that other incidents include bites or stings from pigeons, seagulls, bees, wasps, spiders, insects, and cats.

Lacey explained that while most injuries are minor, some staff have required stitches or hospitalization. He emphasized that the company empowers employees to withdraw from a delivery if they feel unsafe, prioritizing their safety over the completion of the task. He noted that a single postman or woman often cannot control the environment where a dog may roam, which complicates safe deliveries.

The safety head also mentioned that some postal workers carry treats in their pockets to manage dogs waiting at gates or drives. However, he cautioned that a dog's behavior can change, meaning a friendly animal on one day might pose a risk the next. An Post records these data points to track trends in workplace safety across its network.