lemmikkien

Lemmikkien is the Finnish term for domestic animals kept for companionship and enjoyment. They span a variety of species, but the most common are dogs and cats, with smaller mammals, birds, fish and reptiles also kept as pets. In Finland, pet ownership is characterized by a strong emphasis on welfare, preventive health, and regular veterinary care.

Care and welfare: Responsible ownership includes providing appropriate nutrition, safe housing, daily exercise or enrichment, social interaction, and routine health care such as vaccinations and parasite control. Many Finns obtain pet care through veterinarians, pet stores, and registered breeders, and animal welfare legislation governs treatment and living conditions.

Regulation and practice: Finland has robust animal welfare standards. The Animal Welfare Act and related decrees set minimum standards for housing, handling, and care, and municipal authorities enforce compliance. For dogs and cats, microchipping and registration are common in many areas; breeders and sellers typically provide health records. Shelters and rescue groups operate to re-home animals.

Adoption and ethics: The adoption of animals from shelters is encouraged to reduce stray populations and reliance on breeding. Spaying and neutering are commonly recommended to promote responsible reproduction and animal health.

Impact and society: Lemmikkien ownership shapes daily life and local economies through veterinary services, pet products, and housing design, while also raising considerations about welfare, access to care, and environmental factors.