Why hikers with dogs face extra risks near cows in Austria
Briefly

A hiking incident in Styria left a 44-year-old woman seriously injured after a herd of 30-35 cows charged her. The couple was hiking near Ursprungalm when their dog startled the herd. Following the dog, the cows overran the woman, requiring her airlift to a hospital. Experts emphasize that dogs can provoke aggressive behavior in cows, especially mothers with calves. Safety courses for dog owners aim to minimize risks during hikes, and clear warnings are posted at grazing areas to alert hikers about potential dangers.
In a recent hiking incident in Styria, a 44-year-old woman was severely injured after a herd of 30 to 35 cows charged at her when her dog startled them.
Experts caution that dogs can trigger aggressive behavior in cows, which perceive them as predators, especially if the cows are protective of their calves.
Safety courses for dog owners, conducted by animal therapist Katharina Steindl-Prem, emphasize the importance of familiarizing dogs with the presence of grazing cattle to prevent dangerous encounters.
Warning signs at grazing areas indicate that hikers should remain vigilant, particularly near mother cows, as they tend to react aggressively if they feel their calves are threatened.
Read at www.thelocal.at
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