Pet-friendly cottages near Helsinki

Pet-Friendly cottages in Finland – Suomen Kotteria welcomes your furry friends

When planning a cottage holiday in Finland, many travellers face the same question: what should we do with our pet during the trip? Pets are beloved family members, and leaving a dog or cat with a friend—or in a pet hotel—often doesn’t feel like the right choice. That’s why the easiest and happiest solution is to bring your pet along!

At Suomen Kotteria’s rental cottages, your four-legged family members are warmly welcome.

All well-behaved pets are welcome – But what does “well-behaved” even mean?

Many cottage owners advertise that “well-behaved pets” are allowed. Sounds reasonable in theory… but what exactly is a “well-behaved pet”? It’s a bit like saying only “well-behaved children” are allowed – but who decides what that means?

Most pet owners love their animals and feel that their own dog or cat behaves well, especially in normal everyday situations. However, pets are still animals. Even the sweetest companion may occasionally get excited, stressed, or bored — and that can lead to chewed chair legs, scratched wooden walls or doors, destroyed croquet balls, or a yard that needs extra cleanup.

Why do we charge a pet fee?

Pets are warmly welcome in all our cottages, with a small additional fee of 10 €/pet per day. This fee helps us maintain the cottages in top condition for all guests.

While most pets stay out of trouble, the pet fee contributes to covering occasional extra cleaning, wear and tear, or minor repairs. It ensures that every guest — human or furry — can enjoy a comfortable, well-maintained cottage holiday.

What Makes a Responsible Pet Owner?

A considerate pet owner:

1. Reports any pet-related damage immediately

This allows us to repair issues quickly and prevents further problems. Unfortunately, damage is sometimes left unreported — perhaps due to fear of extra costs. We appreciate honesty.

2. Does not leave pets unattended in the cottage

A bored or anxious pet can cause damage without the owner even noticing.

3. Cleans thoroughly before checkout

Please vacuum the sofa and under the furniture. If your dog sheds a lot, you may want to roll up rugs during your stay. Remember to pick up all dog waste around the cottage area — also in winter, by covering it with snow to keep the surroundings pleasant.

4. Respects other guests and neighbors

Keep barking to a minimum, especially by the river and by the seashores — sound carries far on calm days.

Dog walking and Finnish nature guidelines

There are plenty of forest paths and quiet country roads around our cottages, perfect for peaceful dog walks. If your dog is well-trained and reliably under control, it may roam freely in the cottage yard.

Please note Finland’s seasonal leash law: dogs must be kept on a leash from 1 March to 19 August to protect wildlife during breeding season. Outside this period, dogs may be off-leash on the yard as long as they remain under your immediate control.

Staying safe in Finnish nature

The Finnish wilderness is beautiful but can hold unexpected risks, especially for those not used to countryside life. Prepare for your trip by saving emergency numbers and knowing the location of the nearest veterinary services.

• Emergency veterinary care: Every municipality has an on-call veterinarian, and larger towns have private clinics with 24/7 service
• Nationwide vet helpline: 0600 14499 (call charges apply)

Summer safety: bbq, heat, and algae

BBQ safety: Dogs love the smell of grilling and may eat dropped food. Items such as corn cobs, bones, or wooden skewers can be life-threatening. If your pet swallows something dangerous, contact a veterinarian before attempting to induce vomiting.

Heat and hydration: Finnish summers can be surprisingly hot. Provide shade and fresh water, avoid long walks during midday heat, and take extra care with short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds. A swim in the sea or river is an excellent way to cool down.

Blue-green algae: Algae blooms are rare in rivers but may occur in the sea during summer. If suspected, prevent your pet from drinking or swimming in the water.

Forest hazards: mushrooms, carrion, snakes, and ticks

Toxic mushrooms and carrion: Can cause severe stomach or neurological symptoms. Seek veterinary advice if your pet shows unusual behavior.

Snakes: Mostly harmless grass snakes are common near Skitunäs and riverside cottages, but vipers (adders) may also be present. If bitten, carry your pet to a vehicle and avoid unnecessary movement. Do not use viper tablets as first aid.

Ticks: Use preventive measures, check your pet’s fur daily, and remove any ticks with appropriate tweezers.

Preventing your pet from running away

Even well-behaved pets may wander in a new environment. To keep them safe:

• Use a GPS tracker for dogs or outdoor cats
• Ensure your pet is microchipped
• Attach a collar tag with your pet’s name and your phone number

Water safety for pets

Winter: Check ice thickness before walking on frozen sea or rivers. Drill a test hole if unsure.

Boating: Bring a pet life jacket if taking your pet on the water — cottages provide life jackets for humans only.

Welcome to a relaxing, pet-friendly holiday

At Suomen Kotteria, a true Finnish cottage holiday is best enjoyed together with the whole family — pets included. With peaceful surroundings, spacious yards, beautiful nature trails, and clear pet-friendly policies, your stay will be comfortable and carefree.

Now that the safety tips are covered, it’s time to pack your bags, bring your furry friend, and let the adventure begin!

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Cottages in South Finland, Suomen Kotteria Oy +358400534269, asiakaspalvelu@kotteria.com