Cow attack in Styria: hiking seriously injured-this is how you protect yourself!

Cow attack in Styria: hiking seriously injured-this is how you protect yourself!

Schladming, Österreich - A terrifying event occurred in Styria last Sunday afternoon. A 44-year-old woman was seriously injured by a herd of cows on a hiking trip near Schladming. According to reports from the KURIER Read here the woman with her husband and her dog was on a forest path from the Giglachsen to the origin, as her dog-unfortunately-came too close to the nasty cows. This led to the cows persecuted the woman and overrun. The incident ended with a rescue helicopter to the hospital in Schwarzach-St. Veit had to be flown.

suckler cows are known for their pronounced protection instinct and vehemently defend their offspring. As the BR , it can be dangerous if someone approaches your calf. Other animals in the herd also support the suckler cow to defend the offspring. This shows how important it is to observe the corresponding rules of conduct when you are traveling with dogs near pasture areas.

experts from the Chamber of Agriculture advise you to keep a healthy distance in such situations and to lead dogs on short leash. In the event of an attack, it is advisable to leave the dog off the leash to distract attention from the cows. If possible, hikers should handle pasture areas with leashed dogs and make sure to close gaps after crossing so as not to deny the animals.

rules of conduct for hikers

In order to avoid accidents with pasture cattle, various rules of conduct have been drawn up over the years. There is an overview of the most important points, for example, at the Pudel :

1. avoid contact with pasture vieh; Do not feed animals.
2. calm behavior and keep your distance; No screaming of the animals.
3. always lead on a leash and keep an eye on the behavior of the dog.
4. Letting go of the dog leash immediately when attacked.
5. suckler cows and their calves have to be observed.

These guidelines are not only a guide for your own security, but also underline the personal responsibility of every hiker. The Supreme Court (OGH) has made it clear that the hiker himself is responsible for aggression of cows, which are due to tiredness, uncertainty or ignorance of the hiker. In addition, farmers are not obliged to build fences to secure hiking trails.

create consciousness

With its approximately 8,000 managed alpine pastures,

Austria has a great tourist attraction, and it is important to respect both nature and the animals living there. The felt gap to the herd is essential, especially near young animals and bulls, who can also represent a source of danger.

In this regard, it is crucial to deal responsibly with the Situation. The Tyrol Chamber of Agriculture has already developed a code of conduct for hikers who emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and safe behavior. Local farmers also want such regulations to be implemented regionally to ensure the safety of everyone involved.