RACHEL MCKENZIE FROM RUSHOLME FACES EIGHT-YEAR BAN AFTER STARVING DOG IN FILTHY YARD

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community of Rusholme, Manchester, Rachel McKenzie, born around 1982 and residing on Deyne Avenue, was found guilty of neglecting her pet dog, Missy, in a manner that left the animal severely emaciated and suffering. The incident came to light in February 2016 when RSPCA officers conducted a welfare visit to McKenzie's home, uncovering appalling conditions that highlighted her neglect.

Upon arrival, the officers observed a yard littered with faeces, with no sign of fresh drinking water or any suitable resting area for the dog. Missy, a pitbull-type dog, was discovered in a deplorable state, suffering from extreme muscle wastage and emaciation. Her ribs, pelvis, spine, and hip bones were prominently visible through her skin, indicating prolonged malnutrition. The dog was found to be unsteady on her feet and was sleeping on wet, filthy bedding within a makeshift kennel that offered no comfort or protection from the elements.

At the time of her rescue, Missy weighed only 13.6 kilograms, a dangerously low weight for her size, and it was determined she had been suffering for at least seven days prior to the officers' intervention. Veterinary assessments rated her health as a one out of nine, with one representing the most severe emaciation and nine indicating obesity. The condition of the dog was a stark reflection of neglect and poor care.

During her interview with authorities, McKenzie claimed she had taken Missy to an animal hospital because the dog had not been eating for approximately two months. She stated that she was told to keep Missy separated from another dog she owned. McKenzie admitted she did not contact the RSPCA earlier out of fear that her dog would be euthanized. She explained that she had been too ill to clean the yard and that her partner, who usually took care of the cleaning, was not speaking to her at the time.

William Staunton, representing McKenzie, argued that her concern for the dog’s welfare was genuine and emphasized that Missy was a placid animal. He highlighted that her behavior was not driven by malicious cruelty but rather by omission and neglect, influenced by her personal circumstances, including a breakdown in her relationship with a violent partner. The defense also requested that McKenzie only be banned from keeping dogs, as her autistic son considered their family cat a vital part of his life.

Following treatment and care, Missy was gradually nourished back to health. By early March 2016, she had gained weight, reaching 14.95 kilograms. Despite initial concerns that her breed might lead to a ban, she was eventually returned to her original owner after recovery.

In sentencing, Rachel McKenzie received a 12-month community order, which included a 20-day rehabilitation program and a three-month curfew. Additionally, she was banned from keeping dogs for eight years, a ban set to expire in September 2024. The case has served as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglecting vulnerable pets in the community of Rusholme, Manchester.