In Finland, one may practice the veterinary profession only if one is authorized as a veterinarian in Finland or if one has a temporary right to practice. Practicing the veterinary profession is regulated in the Act on Access to and Pursuit of the Profession of Veterinary Surgeon (29/2000).
According to 2 § of the Act, only a person who has the right to practice veterinary medicine may decide on the animal's veterinary examination, diagnosis, treatment, and medication. However, scientific, experimental, and educational animal activities are regulated separately. Unauthorized practice of the veterinary profession can lead to a fine or imprisonment for a maximum of three months.
If you suspect that a private person or someone who does not have the right to practice veterinary medicine is performing veterinary procedures on animals, you can report the matter by e-mail to elainlaakarit@ruokavirasto.fi. The notification should include a brief description of the events or potential procedures done to the animal, the name of the person subject to the notification, and the contact information of the notifier. As a result of the notification, Finnish Food Authority can, if necessary, make an investigation request to the police regarding the unauthorized practice of veterinary medicine.
As a central government authority, Finnish Food Authority directs and supervises the implementation and compliance with the Act on Access to and Pursuit of the Profession of Veterinary Surgeon and the provisions issued under it. Finnish Food Authority authorizes practitioners of the veterinary profession in Finland. In addition, Finnish Food Authority makes decisions and receives notifications concerning the temporary right to practice. Finnish Food Authority also supervises veterinarians.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry directs and supervises the implementation and compliance with the Act on Access to and Pursuit of the Profession of Veterinary Surgeon and the provisions issued under it as the highest authority.
In Finland, you can study to become a veterinarian at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine in the University of Helsinki.