Finland is a country that prides itself on being an animal-friendly nation. The Finnish people have a deep respect for animals, and they are often seen as important members of the family. In this article, we will explore the prevailing attitude to animals and pets in Finland, the laws regarding pet ownership, major animal charities, pet supply stores, and cultural taboos or sensitivities associated with different types of animals in Finland.
Prevailing Attitude to Animals and Pets
The Finnish people have a positive attitude towards animals and pets. They consider them as an integral part of the family, and they are often treated as such. Many households in Finland have pets, including dogs, cats, and rabbits. It is common to see people taking their pets out for walks or even taking them along to restaurants or cafes.
In addition, Finland has a long history of hunting and fishing, but this has not led to a lack of respect for animals. Hunters and fishermen in Finland are required to follow strict rules and regulations to ensure that animals are treated humanely.
Laws Regarding Pet Ownership
In Finland, pet ownership is regulated by the Animal Welfare Act, which sets out the rights and responsibilities of pet owners. According to the law, pets must be provided with adequate food, water, shelter, and medical care. In addition, pet owners must ensure that their pets are not a danger to others.
There are also regulations regarding the identification and registration of pets. Dogs must be microchipped, and their owners must have a valid license to keep them. The license fee is determined by the municipality where the owner lives, and it is usually valid for one year.
Major Animal Charities
There are several major animal charities in Finland that work to improve animal welfare and protect animals from abuse and neglect. These include:
- Animalia: A non-profit organization that works to promote animal welfare and rights in Finland.
- The Finnish Association for Animal Welfare: An organization that aims to prevent animal abuse and promote responsible pet ownership.
- The Finnish Society for the Protection of Animals: An organization that works to improve the treatment of animals in Finland and promote their welfare.
Pet Supply Stores
There are many pet supply stores in Finland that cater to the needs of pet owners. These stores offer a wide range of products, including food, toys, and accessories. Some popular pet supply stores in Finland include:
- Musti ja Mirri: A chain of pet supply stores that offers a wide range of products for dogs, cats, and other pets.
- Lemmikkistore: A pet supply store that offers a range of products for dogs, cats, and small animals.
- Zooplus: An online pet supply store that offers a wide range of products for pets, including food, toys, and accessories.
Cultural Taboos or Sensitivities Associated with Different Types of Animals
In Finland, there are no cultural taboos or sensitivities associated with different types of animals. The Finnish people have a deep respect for all animals and do not discriminate against any particular species. However, there are some regulations regarding the ownership of exotic animals. In Finland, it is illegal to keep certain exotic animals, such as lions, tigers, and bears, as pets.
Animal welfare is an important issue in Finland, with a high level of awareness and care for animals among the general population. The country has several laws and regulations in place to ensure the protection of animals and their well-being. There are also many animal charities and organizations working towards improving animal welfare and advocating for better treatment of animals in the country. While there are no significant cultural taboos or sensitivities related to pet ownership, there are some cultural sensitivities related to hunting and wildlife management in Finland. Overall, Finland is a great destination for pet owners and animal lovers, with a strong commitment to animal welfare and responsible pet ownership.