A Royal Mail delivery worker has come under intense public scrutiny after doorbell footage appeared to show him kicking an elderly blind Shih Tzu outside a family home in Buckinghamshire, England. The dog, an 11-year-old pet named Ethel, later died after suffering severe injuries, prompting widespread condemnation from animal lovers and renewed debate over the risks postal workers face when encountering dogs during deliveries.
The incident occurred shortly after the postal worker delivered a parcel to the property. Security camera footage allegedly captured him turning back moments later and forcefully kicking Ethel as she stood outside the house. According to her owner, 40-year-old NHS worker Eve Lewis, the elderly dog posed no threat. Ethel was partially blind, had only a single tooth remaining, and had spent years as a gentle family companion.
Lewis said she was devastated after reviewing the footage.
“The driver was walking away and still made the effort to turn around and kick her,” she said. “He didn’t just kick her—he kicked her like a football. She flew into the air, hit the ground, and rolled several times.”
Ethel was rushed to a veterinary hospital, where examinations revealed extensive internal injuries. Veterinarians attempted emergency treatment, but her condition deteriorated rapidly. Lewis said her dog’s blood pressure continued to fall, internal bleeding developed, and scans later indicated catastrophic brain damage. Faced with no hope of recovery, the family made the painful decision to have Ethel euthanized.
The case quickly spread across social media, where many users demanded accountability. However, the reaction was not unanimous.
Several current and former postal workers publicly defended the delivery driver’s actions, arguing that dog attacks remain a significant occupational hazard. Some said they had personally experienced bites while delivering mail and claimed they would react similarly if they believed they were in danger.
One postal worker told British media that he had previously kicked a dog that attacked him and would do so again if necessary. Others emphasized that delivery staff are often required to make split-second decisions when confronted by unfamiliar animals, particularly while working in areas they do not know well.
According to Royal Mail, more than 2,000 dog attacks on postal employees were reported during the previous year, with dozens resulting in serious injuries. The company has repeatedly highlighted the dangers posed by uncontrolled dogs during deliveries.
Despite those concerns, critics argue that the available footage appears inconsistent with an act of self-defense, claiming the dog showed no signs of aggression before the alleged kick.
Royal Mail said it was “deeply sorry” for the distress caused to the family and confirmed that it had launched a full internal investigation after reviewing the video. The company also stated it would cover the veterinary expenses incurred following the incident.
Meanwhile, Thames Valley Police confirmed that officers are conducting ongoing inquiries relating to potential animal welfare and criminal damage offenses. No arrests had been announced at the time of reporting.
The incident has reignited discussion over balancing the safety of delivery workers with the protection of household pets. Animal welfare organizations continue to stress that elderly, disabled, or non-aggressive animals deserve careful treatment, while postal unions maintain that employers must ensure staff have the training and support needed to manage potentially dangerous encounters safely.
As investigations continue, the case remains a reminder of how quickly a routine doorstep delivery can become the focus of a national conversation about animal welfare, workplace safety, and personal responsibility.
Stories involving companion animals often raise important questions about responsible pet ownership, animal welfare laws, veterinary emergency care, and legal rights following suspected animal cruelty. Understanding how to prevent pet injuries, recognize medical emergencies, and navigate insurance or legal claims can help owners make informed decisions while ensuring the safety and well-being of their animals.
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