In the heart of the Vienna Woods , Gabriele Wodakuncovered one of Austria’s biggest animal welfare scandals some 25 years ago. Where there are now expansive pastures, countless animals were once confined to tiny, filthy cages. Wild horses, foxes, and small animals were languishing under catastrophic conditions. With immediate assistance from Prof. Dr. Helmut Pechlaner and the Schönbrunn Zoo, an unprecedented emergency rescue effort began and eventually evolved into an animal sanctuary in the Vienna Woods.
From Animal Welfare Scandal to Safe Haven
Since no permanent solution was in sight, Gabriele Wodak took over the desolate site on short notice using her own funds and converted it into the Tierpark Wolfsgraben sanctuary. Today , the well-maintained grounds cover 4.5 hectares of pasture and offer a safe haven for chronically ill or traumatized animals. The animals live in natural herds and are cared for around the clock in well-lit stables.
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Camels, Noriker horses, and a painting donkey
At the sanctuary, you’ll encounter an extremely diverse group of rescued animals who can finally find peace here. The mixed herds include Bactrian camels, white Baroque donkeys, and sturdy Noriker horses. But exotic animals like the new desert lynx Amarulo or the painting artist-donkey Frederic also spend their peaceful twilight years here.
The entire infrastructure is consistently designed for species-appropriate care and maximum freedom. In addition to two natural ponds and its own monkey house, the caretakers provide targeted behavioral enrichment daily. This constant, meaningful engagement of the animals is crucial for preventing boredom in their daily lives and promoting natural behavior.
Here’s how you can visit the animal park
If you’d like to visit the site yourself, this is only possible after making an online reservation. The sanctuary deliberately has no set opening hours to ensure the animals have sufficient rest periods free from visitor stress. To cover the enormous veterinary and feeding costs, this private project welcomes direct donations at any time. Alternatively, you can actively help ensure the optimal care of your favorite animal by sponsoring an animal.
📍 Location: Tierpark Wolfsgraben Sanctuary, Tierparkstraße 1, 3012 Wolfsgraben
💶 Costs: Support through direct donations or animal sponsorships is appreciated
⏰ Opening Hours: No set hours – visits only possible after prior online booking!
