Falling donations threaten Upper Austrian animal rescuers

Animal rescue groups in Upper Austria say falling donations and low public reimbursements are threatening their finances, ORF Upper Austria reported.

Icara, a rescue group in Linz, says its donation income has fallen sharply this year. It receives public money only when authorities remove animals, such as dogs, and can wait months for payment, said chairman Georg Pold.

Pold, who is supported by five volunteers, is considering charging for rescues that are not life-threatening.

Pfotenhilfe, an animal rescue organisation in Lochen am See in the Braunau district, also depends on private donations, said spokesperson Jürgen Stadler. State support accounts for only about five per cent of its funding, he said.

Reimbursements for taking in stray animals often fail to cover later costs, including veterinary bills. The groups are calling for political solutions, with the concerns raised around World Animal Day.