Farm under investigation for animal welfare violations in Puolanka, Finland

In the past year, a farm in Puolanka has been the subject of multiple reports concerning animal welfare concerns. The environment director of the area, Jarmo Kelloniemi, has indicated that the farm is under suspicion for severe violations of animal protection laws. In November, approximately 40 dead cattle were discovered on the premises, with the last surviving animal also euthanized. Following this incident, heifers that originated from the farm were sought after in Ristijärvi.

Kelloniemi confirmed that the animals are no longer on the loose. A report regarding animal welfare issues was filed in February, leading to interactions between the farm owner and a veterinarian. However, this report did not result in an inspection for animal welfare. In January, a veterinarian visited the farm for disease surveillance and determined, based on that visit and other information received, that no follow-up was necessary.

In May, further reports came in, prompting an inspection by the veterinary services, which resulted in a hearing and an administrative decision. Compliance with the directives from that decision has been monitored through a follow-up inspection the following week. By October, additional reports of animal welfare concerns surfaced. Despite attempts to conduct an inspection at the end of October, the veterinarian could not reach the farm owner. An inspection finally took place at the end of November, with police assistance, leading to administrative actions and a criminal investigation into potential animal welfare offenses. Throughout the summer and fall of 2024, numerous reports of escaped cattle from this farm continued to emerge.