POSTAL workers are demanding legislation with teeth that protects them from savage dog attacks.

Currently the Dangerous Dogs Act does not apply on private property so any of our brave posties that get injuried on their rounds are unable to prosecute the animal's owner or get compensation.

Now the Communications Workers Union (CWU) is working with Unison, the RSPCA, the Dogs Trust, Metropolitan Police and other stakeholders to support a change in the law.

Postman Gary Coulson, 39, of Broomhill Road, Woodford Green, told the Guardian that watching out for aggressive animals is "almost part of the job".

The dad-of-two added: "There are quite often situations when a dog will be loose in the front garden wagging its tail but as soon as you go through the gate it just goes mental and you have to back away.

"I've heard of a couple of people in our office who have suffered nasty attacks and have been quite badly injured.

"I think the campaign is a great idea. It's not only the risk of attack but also sometimes people can't get their mail as we can't get access to their property."

Around 6,000 postal workers are attacked by dogs every year with 70 per cent attacked on private property.

Bret Heuthman has worked as a postman in Woodford Green for the last five years.

The 32-year-old, from Hornchurch, said: "I think it's a good idea as I've been attacked a couple of times by dogs growling and trying to get at me.

"A lot of times the owners don't appreciate how serious it is and think it's funny but it's not funny and there needs to be more protection."

Dave Prentis, general secretary of UNISON, said: "It is appalling that district nurses, utility workers home care and social workers among others, run the risk of being attacked by these animals when visiting clients at home.

"Dog attacks can result in serious debilitation and disfiguring injuries and can also be the cause of high levels of stress."