What Is Dog Repellant?
Dog repellant is a spray used by many postal workers to stop any dangerous dogs they encounter along their route from attacking. According to a recent study by the USPS, more than 5,800 postal employees were attacked by dogs in 2020 alone. Thus, the need for dog repellent is clear.
While there are a few formulations of dog repellent, the most common product contains a .35 percent oleoresin capsicum, which is an extract derived from cayenne peppers. The remaining 99.65 percent of dog repellent consists of inactive mineral oil, which acts as a carrying agent for the capsicum. Dog repellent comes in an aerosol spray can, which provides a certain number of uses.
When a postal worker encounters a dog that they believe is about to attack them, the postal worker can point the can of dog repellent at the animal as it is about to attack. Carriers should point the can at the dog’s eyes, nose or mouth to ensure the product’s effectiveness. The USPS strongly discourages what it calls indiscriminate use of dog repellent and advises carriers to use special caution around humans. This is because dog repellent can cause irritation to the eyes and skin for about 10 minutes after exposure. However, there are no harmful long-term effects of coming into contact with dog repellent.
Cans of dog repellent contain multiple uses. However, it is important to properly care for the product to ensure that it remains effective for subsequent uses. After using dog repellent, there will be a small amount of residue left in the nozzle. To clear the nozzle, turn the can upside down and spray until a white mist comes out. It is important to wash your hands after each use. When the case of dog repellant is empty, it can be thrown in the trash without any special consideration. However, USPS recommends consulting state and local regulations before discarding a large number of cans.
If you are a USPS worker and have been injured in a Chicago dog bite attack, you may face hurdles when pursuing compensation for your injuries. At Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, we are here for you. Our personal injury law firm has over 30 years of experience helping injury victims obtain the compensation they need and deserve after being bit by a dog. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation, call 1-877-595-4878 today. Because we work on a contingency basis, you will not pay any upfront costs to bring a claim, and we will not charge you for our services unless we can get you the compensation you deserve.
Other Dog Bite FAQs:
- Can the Post Office Refuse to Deliver Mail Because of a Dog?
- How Do Dogs React to Repellant?
- How Many Dog Bites Occur In The US?
- How to Prevent a Dog Bite?
- How to Treat Dog Bites?
- My Child Got Bitten By A Dog; What Are My Next Steps?
- What Breed of Dog Bites the Most?
- What Can I File if I Was Bitten by a Dog During My Delivery?
- What Evidence Is Needed For A Dog Bite Lawsuit?
- What Is Dog Repellant?
- What Is The Total Cost For A Dog Bite Lawyer?
- What Should Letter Carriers Know About Dogs?
- What Should Pet Owners Do Before a USPS Worker Delivers the Mail?
- What to Do If Someone’s Dog Bites You?
- When Should Dog Repellant Be Used?
- Where Should I Discard Dog Repellant?
- Which Cities Have the Most Dog Bites?
- Who Do You Contact After A Dog Bite?
- Why Is Dog Repellant Necessary?