Half the animal shelter moved from Vösendorf to Wöllersdorf

The Tierschutzhaus in Vösendorf, one of Austria's largest animal shelters, is undergoing a significant relocation process as part of its expansion and modernization efforts. The decision comes amid growing challenges related to space limitations and structural issues at the current facility. According to Madeleine Petrovic, president of Tierschutz Austria, the existing site has become increasingly difficult to use due to contamination and aging infrastructure. While there is no immediate risk of collapse, many parts of the building have deteriorated over time, limiting their suitability for housing both animals and staff. This situation has prompted the organization to consider abandoning the location altogether. However, given the favorable location near Vienna and good accessibility, they aim instead to expand their operations elsewhere.

To address these concerns, Tierschutz Austria has acquired a four-hectare plot of land near the A2 motorway exit in Wöllersdorf, located in the district of Wiener Neustadt-Land. The new facility will accommodate approximately half of the current workforce from Vösendorf, allowing for a gradual transition. Initial planning proposals for the new building have already been submitted, and the organization hopes to finalize key decisions and begin detailed planning by the end of this year. A groundbreaking ceremony is anticipated around early 2027, according to Petrovic’s expectations.

The new Tierschutzhaus is envisioned as a state-of-the-art facility featuring spacious accommodations for animals and comprehensive care facilities. Energy efficiency is also a priority, with plans to incorporate geothermal energy and photovoltaic systems to make the shelter largely self-sufficient in terms of energy consumption. Although precise cost estimates are still pending, Petrovic anticipates construction costs ranging between ten and twenty million euros, expressing hope that the final figure will lean closer to the lower end of this range.

At the current Vösendorf site, nearly 2,600 animals are cared for by about 120 employees and numerous volunteers. Approximately half of these animals will be relocated to the new premises in Wöllersdorf. The shift reflects a growing trend of more injured wild animals being brought into the shelter, including birds that were previously considered too delicate to rescue. For example, while a small bird falling from its nest might have once been seen as a lost cause, today such cases are increasingly addressed with successful rehabilitation efforts.

The increase in the number of animals taken in by authorities is another factor influencing the move. Currently, two crocodiles reside at the Vösendorf facility, highlighting the diverse range of species the shelter handles. Despite the presence of various animals, the new location in Wöllersdorf is designed to minimize disturbances for nearby residents. Petrovic assured that appropriate measures will be taken to prevent noise pollution from barking dogs or chirping birds. In addition to the main shelter, Tierschutz Austria operates a wildlife station in Gloggnitz within the Neunkirchen district.

Local officials have expressed enthusiasm about the project. Mayor Florian Pfaffelmaier of Wöllersdorf-Steinabrückl stated that the community aims to establish itself as a model municipality in the field of animal protection. They have already appointed a dedicated animal welfare officer and formed a working group focused on conservation efforts. With 42 percent of the area covered by forests, the local government feels a strong responsibility towards protecting wildlife. The new facility is expected to align with these environmental goals, reinforcing the region's commitment to preserving biodiversity.