Animal burial

General information

Dead animals are a potential risk to health and hygiene, which is why they usually have to be disposed of in an approved procedure. Owners/keepers are required to hand dead animals over to an approved facility (such as a local collection point, animal disposal service, animal cemetery or pet crematorium).

However, a single pet (dog, cat or other small animal) can be buried on the own/keeper's own property unless there is a risk that it could pass on an infectious disease.

Caution

Additional restrictions apply in some Austrian provinces. 

Competent authority

Further information

Advice

For advice about what to do when an animal dies, speak to any official vet (known as an Amtstierarzt or Amtstierärztin).   

Certified Translation
Last update: 3 February 2023

Responsible for the content: Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection