Dog seizures double in Finland as homes flood in for rescued poodles

Finnish authorities have seized twice as many dogs in recent years, with 350 taken into care last year alone, according to the Finnish Animal Welfare Federation (SEY).

In Lahti, a municipal veterinary officer removed over 20 severely neglected poodles from a single property in June. The dogs, now under the care of the Päijät-Häme Animal Welfare Association, are being prepared for adoption, with nearly 400 applications received for the small breeds.

SEY reported a sharp rise in dog seizures in 2023, with half of the 700 dogs taken in by its member associations last year removed by authorities. The rest were surrendered by owners due to housing difficulties or life changes.

The poodles, some unable to stand due to matted fur weighing up to 700 grams, had fur so thick it obscured their eyes and caused infections. Some had dried feces trapped in their coats. The association is now selecting adoptive homes capable of managing their grooming needs.

Larger or challenging breeds, as well as older or mixed-breed dogs, remain harder to place. One dog, Fiinu, has waited months for a home.

SEY suggests increased oversight may explain the rise in seizures, though the full impact of recent legal changes—including a 2024 animal welfare law and a restructuring of veterinary authorities—remains unclear.