KATEY CAMMISH SCARBOROUGH HORROR: STARVED DOG FOUND IN FILTHY EASTFIELD KITCHEN

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community of Scarborough, Katey Elizabeth Cammish, born around 1988 and residing on Hawthorn Walk, Eastfield, was found guilty of severe animal cruelty involving a female lurcher-type dog. The incident came to light when North Yorkshire Police officers responded to a call at her address for an unrelated matter, only to discover the dog in a deplorable state of neglect and suffering.

Officers entered the property and immediately identified the dog, which was living in a kitchen that was covered in faeces and urine. The environment was described as utterly unsuitable for any living creature, with no water, food, or proper bedding available for the animal. The officers reported that the smell emanating from the room was nauseating and would have caused significant distress to the dog. The animal was found to be extremely emaciated, with ribs, vertebrae, and pelvic bones clearly visible through her skin, indicating a severe lack of nourishment.

After being rescued from the grim conditions, the dog was given water by the officers and drank eagerly, highlighting her urgent need for hydration. Veterinary examination revealed that her body condition score was a mere 2 out of 9, with poor muscle tone, no palpable fat, and protruding bones. The dog also exhibited signs of dry skin and overgrown claws, further evidence of neglect. Her condition was so dire that her health was at immediate risk.

During questioning, Cammish claimed she had left the dog in the care of someone else, attempting to distance herself from responsibility. She also stated that the dog could not put weight on her legs, a claim contradicted by the dog's rapid weight gain after being taken into the care of the RSPCA. The rescue organization has since reported that the dog is now thriving, having received proper care and attention, and has been successfully rehomed.

Inspector Geoff Edmond of the RSPCA expressed his concern, stating, “The police attended this address and found the dog in an appalling state, living in totally unsuitable conditions. The officers were very concerned and sought advice from us. The dog was immediately removed for her own safety, and I would like to thank the police officers involved in this investigation who worked in partnership with the RSPCA to ensure she could receive the proper care and attention she needed.”

PC Sam Thompson, part of the Scarborough Response Team who seized the dog and led the investigation, shared his reaction: “As a dog owner myself, I was horrified by the conditions of both the dog and its environment. I am so pleased that the dog is no longer suffering. There is simply no excuse for anybody to keep an animal in those conditions, and this case should serve as a stark reminder to all pet owners that they have a duty of care and responsibility towards their animals.”

In addition to Cammish’s conviction, a second individual, whose identity remains undisclosed for legal reasons, pleaded guilty to one offence under the Animal Welfare Act and was disqualified from owning any animals for five years. The court sentenced Cammish to a 12-week custodial sentence, suspended for 18 months, along with requirements for rehabilitation, and ordered her to pay £85 in costs and a £154 surcharge. Her disqualification from owning animals will last until January 2029, serving as a reminder of the serious consequences of neglecting animal welfare in Scarborough and Eastfield.