Puppy abandoned between garbage cans in Vienna – animal welfare association asks for help!

Puppy abandoned between garbage cans in Vienna – animal welfare association asks for help!

In the last few days, several unpleasant animal welfare incidents have caused a stir in Vienna. On December 30, 2025, a small Pomeranian puppy was abandoned in a pink transport box between two garbage cans in Pappenheimgasse, in the 20th district of Brigittenau. The puppy was found at night and his fate makes animal rights activists' hearts beat faster. The animal protection association Hunde-Such-Hilfe Österreich has already launched a call on Facebook and is asking the public for information. Anyone who has seen something can call 0664/9113540, also anonymously. 5min report on it.

But it doesn't stop with this shocking case. According to a new report from the animal welfare association TierQuarTier Vienna, two mother dogs and their newborn puppies were abandoned within a few days. The first dog family, consisting of a mother dachshund and her five puppies, was discovered in a dog park in the 5th district. An attentive passer-by informed the animal rescue team, who quickly intervened. The second dog family, consisting of a mother dog and eight puppies, was even handed over to a police station in the 22nd district. The operations manager of TierQuarTier, Thomas Benda, was concerned about the irresponsibility behind these acts. These suspensions require intensive care, which ties up valuable resources. OTS provides the details.

Recklessness is becoming more and more common

These incidents reflect a growing problem in the city. Since the start of the holidays, numerous pets have been abandoned. In recent months, the Vienna Animal Protection Ombudsman has taken several actions against owners who have illegally disposed of their animals. Fines of 4,000 euros each were imposed in three cases. Eva Persy, the Vienna animal protection ombudsman, emphasizes that abandoning animals is considered animal cruelty. For example, a heavily pregnant dog was found in the 16th district and an owner was identified, who was fined. Click here for further information.

But it's not just high penalties that are involved. Abandoning pets can be punished with fines of up to 7,500 euros - repeat offenses can even result in a fine of up to 15,000 euros. The city is calling on the population to pay attention to suspicious activities and to seek help for the animals.

Animal protection needs our help

The situation highlights the need for responsible pet owners and to consider whether one can truly prepare for the long-term care of an animal before choosing an animal companion. Given the depletion of capacity in animal shelters, such as TierQuarTier Wien, considered one of the most modern animal shelters in Europe, it is crucial that the city's residents work together to prevent such tragedies.

If you have information about the abandoned animals or would like to give up a pet yourself, you can find information about the contact points and how you can help on the websites of the local animal protection organizations.