UPS delivery man injured by dogs
By Lynsi Musselman
Albany’s United Parcel Service (UPS) man, Larry Loveland, has delivered countless packages to residents for over 15 years.
Some might say he is one of the most important visitors to town, next to Santa Claus.
Loveland is depended on by his customers, Monday through Friday, and always “delivers.”
On Monday, Aug. 10, while Loveland was making his way to Albany via Hamby, he made a stop at a house on his route in western Jones County, just north of Fort Phantom Lake.
Loveland said he stepped out of his van carrying packages and and was making his way to the porch when a small dachshund mix approached him, stopping a short distance away in an intimidating stance.
“Then a pit bull came out of nowhere, and as I thought to drop the packages and head back to my van, it was too late,” Loveland explained.
He said both dogs had him on the ground on his back before he could react.
“The pit bull bit the inside of my left arm and the smaller dog bit my left calf twice,” Loveland added. “Both dogs clawed at my chest, shredding my uniform shirt. My pants were torn as well from the bites on my leg.”
Loveland began his career with UPS in 1982 and said he has never had an injury like this.
“I left the packages on the ground, and drove myself to the hospital,” he said.
Loveland said he will have open wound care for several weeks.
“Because of the nature of the injuries, the doctor could not suture them,” Loveland explained. “Bacteria can form with dog bites.”
Loveland said he will be off his route until at least end of the month, as he is limited to lifting only five pounds.
“I really miss seeing everyone, and I am looking forward to returning to work,” Loveland said. “I did find out from Jones County that the two dogs are currently in quarantine. I’m not sure what will happen by the time I get back to my route.”
Loveland plans to take it easy for now and spend extra time with his daughter, who just celebrated a birthday.
Loveland is also married, but said he has not been able to see his wife in five months since she is currently living in a nursing facility after developing an infection from knee replacement surgery.
Tisha Wilkins has provided a donation basket for Loveland that will be placed this week at The Albany News.
Wilkins said the basket is to collect donations for Loveland and his family, along with notes and cards to lift his spirits.
