A Kotka woman has received her second conviction this year for failing to control her dangerous dog. The American Staffordshire Terrier has bitten multiple people in separate incidents around the coastal city.
The most recent court ruling found the 54-year-old woman guilty of two counts of leaving an animal unattended and one public order violation. She received 40 day fines totaling 240 euros based on her income. Authorities also ordered her to pay 884 euros in compensation to victims with interest.
Court documents reveal a troubling pattern of negligence. In early June, the dog escaped from her apartment building and bit a male neighbor in the hand and calf. Just weeks later in July, the woman stumbled while walking her dog near Karhula cemetery, allowing the animal to attack another dog. Witnesses reported she made no effort to control her pet and told the other dog's owner she didn't care about the incident.
Later that same month, while intoxicated and sitting on a public bench, her dog bit a passerby in the buttock. The woman claimed the victim came too close to the animal.
This case highlights Finland's approach to dangerous dog regulation. Unlike some countries that automatically euthanize aggressive animals, Finnish courts focus on owner responsibility. The Kymenlaakso District Court explicitly noted the dog wasn't inherently dangerous but became hazardous due to irresponsible ownership.
The woman had previously been convicted in mid-June for similar offenses involving the same dog. That ruling resulted in 30 day fines totaling 210 euros and over 400 euros in victim compensation. The earlier conviction became final while the recent one remains subject to appeal.
Court records show the dog had a history of aggression dating back to May 2023 when it first attacked a person. In May 2024, the animal bit a ten-year-old child in the leg. Injuries in all cases were described as minor.
The woman repeatedly claimed victims had provoked her dog. However, the court found she showed complete indifference to controlling her pet and was well aware of its dangerous tendencies.
What makes this case notable is the court's reasoning. Judges determined the dog could be safely managed by a responsible owner who properly supervises the animal and anticipates triggering situations. This reflects Finland's balanced approach to animal regulation that considers both public safety and responsible pet ownership.
The case raises questions about enforcement effectiveness when owners repeatedly fail to control dangerous animals. Despite multiple incidents and two convictions, the woman retains ownership of the dog that has attacked at least five separate victims.
Local residents in Kotka now face ongoing safety concerns as the dog remains in the same household. The situation demonstrates the challenges municipalities face when dealing with negligent pet owners who repeatedly endanger their communities.