Pets and domestic animals

Helsinki residents have several tens of thousands of pets for companionship and hobbies. Dogs and cats account for the overwhelming majority. In 2005 dog tax was paid for almost 15,000 dogs. The number of rodents, reptiles and caged birds has also shown a significant increase over last year. A pet is often an important family member, a part of nature that is close to use, and an irreplaceable friend in today’s society. Owning a pet is a great responsibility.

A pet is fully dependent on the care it is given. The correct food, looking after the cleanliness and health, and treating the pet fairly are basic rights to which all pets are entitled, and that are enshrined under animal protection legislation.

The need for exercise, the instincts for a breed or species, and the need for social interaction call for particular attention in urban conditions, where the population density is high, and apartment block living restricts the opportunities for activity.

Animals in the natural habitat