Press releases

Sprouting buds and the ever-increasing splendor of flowers are an unmistakable sign: Spring is here! But it's not just plants that are awakening to new life, our native wild animals are also expecting offspring in the coming weeks and months. In addition to many natural risks, free-roaming dogs pose a danger to young animals that should not be underestimated. Even the smell of a dog can cause the parents to flee their clutch or their young. In their absence, the clutch may cool down or the young may fall victim to a predator.

In the period from the beginning of April to mid-July, dogs should therefore only be walked in the forest and open countryside under strict supervision and, if possible, on a lead. Therefore, according to § 2 Paragraph 1 of the NRW State Dog Law, dogs must be kept and supervised in such a way that they do not pose a danger to the life or health of people or animals. In public parks, gardens and green spaces, dogs - with the exception of specially designated dog exercise areas - must be kept on a lead anyway to avoid danger (Section 2 (2) of the NRW State Dog Law). In all nature conservation areas in the city of Aachen, it is also generally forbidden to let dogs run off the lead. In addition, it is forbidden for people and dogs to enter nature conservation areas off the approved paths, as the lower nature conservation authority of the City of Aachen points out.

In the arable landscape of the north of Aachen, free-roaming dogs pose a particular danger to the offspring of ground breeders such as lapwings, partridges and skylarks. Their populations have declined dramatically over the last two decades.

This is why we appeal to all responsible dog owners: Always keep your four-legged friend on a leash until mid-July.

Free-roaming domestic cats pose a considerable risk to clutches of eggs and also pose a risk to birds. It is therefore better for "house cats" to stay at home during the wild animals' breeding season and have no business in the wild during this time.