KERRY HODGKINSON'S HORRIFIC ANIMAL CRUELTY IN WINSFORD: DOGS STARVED TO DEATH

Kerry Anne Hodgkinson, also known as Kerry Gannon, born on July 9, 1975, and residing at 30 Aston Avenue in Winsford, has been found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to animals in a case that has shocked the local community. The conviction follows a disturbing incident involving her care of dogs under her responsibility, particularly a Kangal Shepherd named Kaan, who was found in a critically malnourished state and had to be euthanized immediately.

Hodgkinson, who operates as a self-employed dog groomer trading under the name Dandelion Dogs in Northwich, allowed her Kangal Shepherd, Kaan, to deteriorate to an alarming degree. The dog was so severely starved that he was reduced to a gaunt, emaciated condition, with his bones clearly visible beneath his skin. The neglect was so extreme that Kaan’s life could not be saved, and he was put down by a veterinarian. The veterinary staff described the dog's condition as heartbreaking, noting that he was in such poor shape that no veins could be found to administer sedation, and he yelped in pain whenever moved.

According to reports, an unidentified man brought Kaan to a veterinary practice, visibly distressed and embarrassed by the dog's condition. The man requested the vet to come to his car to examine Kaan, indicating a reluctance to bring the dog inside. Upon examination, the vet observed that Kaan was in a state of severe emaciation, with sunken eyes and almost no visible muscle mass. The dog was given a last biscuit to eat, which he struggled to consume, before the vet managed to find enough muscle in his neck to administer the euthanasia injection.

The vet promptly contacted the RSPCA, which dispatched inspectors to Hodgkinson’s residence. During their investigation, they discovered three other dogs living in the property, including a crossbreed named Buddy, who was also found to be in a severely underweight condition. A veterinarian assessed Buddy’s health and concluded that his condition was so dire that he was likely suffering unnecessarily, highlighting the extent of neglect and cruelty involved.

Hodgkinson was charged and subsequently convicted on two counts of causing unnecessary suffering to animals. The court heard a statement from the vet who was responsible for euthanizing Kaan, describing the dog's condition and the circumstances of his death. The vet recounted how Kaan was wrapped in a blanket when picked up from the car, and how a foul smell was noticeable upon opening the vehicle door. The man present claimed he was not Kaan’s owner but had permission to proceed with euthanasia. The vet explained that they needed the owner’s consent, which was verbally given by Hodgkinson.

Further examination revealed Kaan’s emaciated state, with his eyes sunken into his skull and almost no muscle tissue remaining. The case drew significant attention from local animal welfare advocates and the community, emphasizing the importance of responsible pet ownership and animal cruelty prevention.

Leanne Cooper, an RSPCA inspector involved in the case, expressed her distress over the suffering endured by Kaan. She stated, “It’s heartbreaking Kaan suffered so much as a result of being starved. It was Hodgkinson’s legal responsibility to ensure Kaan and Buddy didn’t suffer, and she failed to do this.”

In sentencing, Hodgkinson received a 16-week prison sentence, which was suspended for 12 months. She was also ordered to pay costs of £400 and a victim surcharge of £154. Additionally, she was banned from keeping animals for life, a measure intended to prevent further cruelty and protect future animals from similar neglect.