Uncomfortable dog zone: Protest by dog ​​owners in Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus!

Uncomfortable dog zone: Protest by dog ​​owners in Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus!

The redesign of the dog zone in the Forschneritschpark in Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus is causing a lot of excitement among dog owners. The beauty treatment was intended to improve the dog area, but instead of joy there is mainly resentment. Dog owners are voicing their displeasure loudly and have collected over 200 signatures against the redesign within just a few days. A protest in front of the district office on Monday, August 11, 2025 mobilized around 20 dog owners who expressed their disappointment with the shortcomings of the new design.

Criticism of the redesign is diverse. The route has been removed, making it much more difficult to use. Bark mulch was also applied, which makes finding dog feces a challenge. A relocated hydrant means that the dogs can no longer be supplied with enough water. The dog zone is increasingly viewed by users as an “improvement,” reports dog owner Barbara Eder, who has initiated a petition. With 243 signatures, dog owners are demanding real improvements.

Criticism of the use of the budget

In the debate about the redesign, the use of the city's budget is also being questioned. “It gives the impression that money was spent without taking the actual needs of people and animals into account,” is the opinion of many dog ​​owners. Suggestions such as barrier-free access, better privacy and alternative floor coverings that are easier to clean are being discussed. After all, 40 to 70 dog owners use the zone every day.

The wishes of dog owners are clear: more greenery, better privacy and new drainage. Accessibility is also an important issue, as the path through the dog park has been removed. In order to defuse conflicts with scooter drivers, it was also proposed to expand the dog zone towards Märzstrasse. District leader Dietmar Baurecht (SPÖ) is open to new ideas and would like to meet with the responsible authorities soon to discuss accessibility.

Suggestions for the future

In order to actually upgrade the dog zone, future-oriented ideas such as integrating the Vienna dog team into the planning could come to light. In this way, breed-specific needs and the experiences of dog owners could be better taken into account. It would be a real benefit for the entire community if dog owners' suggestions were taken seriously and implemented.

The debate about the dog zone in Forschneritschpark shows once again how important it is to involve citizens in shaping their surroundings. It remains to be seen whether and how quickly something will change for the better. One thing is certain: in order for the dog zone to remain a place of joy and togetherness, real improvements are urgently needed.

For further information about the situation of the dog zone in Forschneritschpark, visit meinbezirk.at or w24.at.