At the husky farm, people and animals are doing well

At Syötteen Eräpalvelut’s husky farm, responsibility is visible in everyday actions: the well-being of dogs and people goes hand in hand, and the work community is built on trust, expertise, and long-term commitment. The husky company is part of the Syöte tourism area, where an increasing number of operators are committing to international sustainability standards and the Sustainable Travel Finland (STF) programme.

Tourism operators in the Syöte area are strongly and consistently committed to sustainable development. Syötteen Eräpalvelut has been operating in the area for 15 years, and its sustainability work continues with determination. The company was awarded the STF label in 2023, but responsible practices have been an integral part of everyday operations from the very beginning.

“From the start, our work has been guided by the well-being of the entire community—both people and dogs. That is the common thread running through everything we do. We know our dogs by name; each one is an individual with their own personality and is valued for their uniqueness. We celebrate birthdays together as a whole kennel and check in with the dogs every day,” says “husky mom” Jonna Määttä.

Joy, learning and energy

The company’s philosophy is based on mutual learning: experienced employees mentor younger ones, while younger staff bring energy, new perspectives and joy to the work—whether it concerns dogs or people. Strong emphasis is placed on onboarding. This year, a seasonal employee started a month before the season began in order to become familiar with the dogs, operating practices and working environment at a calm pace.

In the same way, the oldest members of the dog teams support the youngest as they grow into their role. Sled dogs are born to run, and working is what they enjoy. With the help of experienced lead dogs, each young dog finds their own place in the team.

“Sled dogs have been used as working animals in Arctic regions for centuries, and it is wonderful that this tradition continues. Today, sled dogs work in tourism just like people do. It is especially important to take care of the well-being of both and to ensure that dogs are able to express behaviour that is natural to their species. It is truly encouraging to see how much emphasis is placed in Syöte on the quality of life of animals used in tourism,” comments Liisa Kokkarinen, Sustainable Tourism Expert at Visit Finland.

The well-being of the dogs is evident throughout every stage of a sled dog’s life. When it is time to retire from daily work, senior dogs are allowed to spend their well-earned retirement years at the same kennel. Depending on their condition, they are also offered light and meaningful activities, such as fitness-maintaining sled rides at a “retirees’ pace”.

Nature and the local environment at the heart of operations

Safari activities require respect for nature. Routes are maintained regularly, and environmental impact is kept to a minimum. At the same time, good cooperation with the local community is actively nurtured.

“Our huskies train in the same areas where others spend time outdoors. During the hunting season, we stay in close contact with local residents so that we are aware of each other’s schedules and can operate safely without disturbing one another,” Määttä explains.

The company also favours local products and services whenever possible. For example, lake fish from restorative fishing are used in the dogs’ diet.

Summer programmes are likewise designed on nature’s terms and include canoeing, fishing, hiking, river tubing and culinary experiences. The meals feature Finnish ingredients, as locally sourced as possible, and the tableware consists of Finnish outdoor dishes made from recycled materials.

Networks strengthen a sustainable future

Syötteen Eräpalvelut and other tourism operators in the area actively participate in sustainability training, workshops and joint volunteer efforts. Development work is carried out together and transparently, for the benefit of the entire region.

The Syöte Tourism Association and Syötteen Eräpalvelut participated in Visit Finland’s first nationwide Sustainable Travel Finland event, held in Tampere in November 2025. Tourism companies and regional organisations from across Finland were widely represented.

“During the day, we heard inspiring stories from different paths toward sustainability, received practical marketing tips and took part in shaping the future of the Sustainable Travel Finland programme. Most importantly, however, the event offered valuable nationwide networking,” says Ulla Anttila from the Syöte Tourism Association.