The Finnish Kennel Club cancels all canine events in Finland

- We understand that the situation is challenging for many of our member clubs. However, we have a duty to ensure the health and well-being of people participating in free-time activities and consider the situation in the whole community, states Harri Lehkonen, Chair of the Finnish Kennel Club's Board.

On 12th March 2020, Finland's government decided to restrict the organisation of public events in order to prevent the coronavirus from spreading. According to the decision, all public events with more than people are cancelled until 31st May 2020. Organisers of other events are also advised to consider, based on their risk assessments, whether or not to organise similar events.

On 22nd April 2020, the government decided to further restrict all events of more than 500 people until 31st July 2020.  

To reduce the spread of infection, non-essential activities, such as close contact in recreational activities and other leisure time, must also be restricted.  This is particularly important for protecting those at risk, including older people and people with underlying medical conditions.

All dog shows, trials, and competitions cancelled until 31st May 2020

The Board of the Finnish Kennel Club has decided to cancel all dog shows, trials, and competitions until 31st May 2020. Organisers are not required to refund entry fees, since the cancellations are caused by Force Majeure (circumstances beyond the organiser’s control). The Finnish Kennel Club will give a recommendation for organisers next week regarding a possible partial refund of entry fees.

Due to the decision of the Finnish government on 22nd April 2020, all international, all-breed shows as well as many smaller dog shows must be cancelled until 31st July 2020. This cause is Force Majeure.

Events can be postponed for later this year, if it is possible.

Organisers of events have been given further instructions.

Events organised by the Finnish Kennel Club are cancelled

The Finnish Kennel Club cancels all its educational seminars and other events that were supposed to be held before 31st July 2020. The entry fee is refunded to those who have entered to events subject to a charge.

Courses and training seminars held by the Finnish Kennel Club's local actors in Kennel Districts are also cancelled until 31st July 2020.

Visits by care and reading dogs and their participation in public events are cancelled

All care and reading dog visits to residential homes and care centres for elderly and disabled as well as visits to kindergartens and libraries are cancelled until 31st July 2020. Furthermore, care and reading dogs are not allowed to participate in public events during this time.

The Finnish Kennel Club follows up the situation regarding coronavirus and will give out closer information on practical measures.

Questions regarding coronavirus are answered by email, the address is corona@kennelliitto.fi.