Vienna in animal rescue mode: Over 950 found animals rescued in the summer!
The number of animals found in Vienna increased dramatically in the summer of 2025. Around 950 animals were taken into the TierQuarTier.

Vienna in animal rescue mode: Over 950 found animals rescued in the summer!
The number of animals found in Vienna reached an alarming peak in the summer of 2025. From the beginning of June to mid-September, a total of 950 animals were taken into the TierQuarTier Vienna. This is a significant increase compared to previous years, highlighting the need for immediate action in animal welfare. Over 200 dogs, including 105 lost animals, and more than 600 cats, of which over 470 were registered as lost animals, needed help during this time. Only a fraction of these animals, namely 59 dogs and 120 cats, were returned to their owners, highlighting the challenges in repatriating missing animals.
The condition of many animals that arrived at the animal shelter already severely malnourished, injured or sick is particularly worrying. In view of these circumstances, TierQuarTier Vienna is calling for a legal chip and registration requirement for all cats, including those that live in apartments. This could make identifying and repatriating missing pets much easier.
High costs and legal regulations
The costs for medical treatment, care and accommodation of these found animals put a considerable strain on the resources of TierQuarTier Vienna. Abandoning animals is not only a moral dilemma, but is also prohibited by law and can be punished with fines of up to 7,500 euros. Despite all efforts, only one of the 100 small animals taken in was returned to its owner.
In order to support the work of the animal quarter, donations and animal sponsorships are of great importance. Information about found animals and collection options is available on the City of Vienna website. The TierQuarTier Vienna offers around 9,700 m² of space for up to 150 dogs, 300 cats and several hundred small animals and makes an indispensable contribution to animal protection work in the city.
Abandoned animals and animal welfare**
The problem of abandoning animals is not new. Loud Animal Protection Austria In recent years, around 26 percent of pets taken in have been successfully returned to their original owners, while three out of four animals have been abandoned. This shows the urgency to educate more about animal welfare and create awareness among the population.
In addition, animal protection organizations not only take in pets, but also wild animals. This summer, for example, over 3,200 wild animals and 7,000 swallows were cared for in Austria's largest animal shelter. The rising cost of feed and the shelter's structural deficiencies are just some of the challenges these organizations face.
The support of the population is therefore of utmost importance in order to secure future work in animal protection. Information about lost or found animals is below Animal quarters available, where the requirements for returning animals are clearly explained.