Travelling safely in the mountains
To ensure that your holiday with your four-legged companion is an unforgettable experience, we ask you to observe a few basic rules of conduct!
keep dogs on a lead
In Styria there is a legal obligation to keep dogs on a lead - this applies to meadows, mountain pastures, hiking trails and also in hotel areas. It ensures that all guests and nature lovers can enjoy a relaxed stay.
Why is it important to keep your dog on a lead?
- Safety: Without a lead, you can never have your dog completely under control, especially in the great outdoors. There is a risk of your dog getting out of sight and causing unpredictable situations.
- Wildlife protection: For example, your dog could startle a doe mother, who then leaves her fawn behind. The fawn would no longer be accepted due to the strange odour.
- Grazing animals: Mother cows often perceive dogs as a threat (they are equated with wolves) and can react aggressively. In such cases, you may unleash your dog to protect yourself.
- Consideration: Not everyone is dog-friendly, and statements such as "He won't do anything" do not help people who are afraid of dogs. Respect and consideration are essential.
Responsibility as a dog owner
- Faeces disposal: Dog faeces in pastures can cause serious illness in cows and calves. Please always pick up your dog's faeces.
- Sticks: Remove sticks after retrieving as they can cause damage to agricultural mowers.
- Avoid grazing areas: Do not enter grazing areas - they are not a play area, but an important economic factor for farmers.
Liability and property damage
As a dog owner, you bear full responsibility for your dog's behaviour. Damage caused by your dog must be fully covered by you or your insurer - this also includes compensation payments by the owner to third parties. We therefore strongly recommend that you take out pet or personal liability insurance to cover any damage caused by your dog.
Thank you for your understanding and consideration - your holiday with your dog will not only be a great experience for you, but for everyone involved!