Private veterinary clinics face decline in 24/7 services across Finland

The number of private veterinary clinics operating around the clock in Finland is declining, with only ten remaining, four of which are located in the capital region. This year, Vethaus, a clinic in Hämeenlinna, became the second private clinic to announce the closure of its nighttime emergency services. Rising costs have made 24/7 operations increasingly expensive, coupled with difficulties in finding veterinarians and staff willing to work nights and weekends. This decision likely increases pressure on local municipal veterinarians, as well as on private emergency services in Tampere and the capital region. Previously, Mevet in Helsinki also discontinued its overnight emergency services.

According to Antti Kuosmanen, CEO of Evidensia, the demand for emergency services has diminished. He confirmed via email that changes to the network of emergency hospitals have been made for now. Alternative options for emergency care are available, as municipal veterinarians provide assistance throughout Southern Finland within a reasonable distance, generally considered to be under 100 kilometers.

The revised Animal Care Law will come into effect in early 2026, emphasizing improved access to emergency care for pets within the public system. Discussions include increasing collaboration between private and public sectors to meet this need sustainably.

As private clinics are not flooding the market with emergency services, the veterinary profession continues to monitor patient volumes and trends. Mikko Turku, president of the Finnish Veterinary Association, noted that while the overall patient volume remains constant, clients are now seeking care differently. The University Veterinary Hospital in Helsinki has already begun noticing an uptick in overnight patients following recent clinic closures, suggesting continued demand for emergency services remains strong.