Helsinki stops distribution of dog waste bags in Feb

The distribution of free dog waste bags in city-maintained dispensers will end in February, said the City of Helsinki in a press release on Monday.

Currently, the city-maintained dog waste bag dispensers are located in areas such as Vuosaari, Kruunuvuorenranta, Ruoholahti, Töölö, Kallio and around Töölönlahti.

However, the dispensers do not serve residents of different neighbourhoods equally, and there are no resources to expand the dispensers citywide.

Dog owners are urged to bring their own waste bags when going out. The Public Order Act obligates dog owners to clean up after their pets, and doing so helps reduce the health risks posed by bacteria in dog waste to both pets and people.

The city, however, will continue to support dogs and their owners through its extensive network of dog parks and designated dog-friendly swimming areas.