KAY HOPPLEY FROM SWINTON SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO STAFFY LIPSY IN MANCHESTER

Kay Hoppley, born on September 29, 1981, and most recently residing on Brierley Road East in Swinton, Manchester, with the postal code M27 9TQ, faced legal action after being found guilty of neglecting her pet Staffy, Lipsy. The case drew significant attention due to the severity of the neglect and the subsequent rescue efforts.

In May 2022, RSPCA inspectors responded to reports of a dog in distress within the Swinton area. Upon arrival, they discovered Lipsy in a dire state of health, severely underweight to the point where her ribs, spine, and hip bones were prominently visible. The dog’s condition was so poor that she was suffering from painful ailments affecting her eyes and ears, indicating a prolonged period of neglect and inadequate care.

Recognizing the urgent need for medical intervention, the inspectors facilitated Lipsy’s surrender to the RSPCA. She was subsequently transported to the Greater Manchester Animal Hospital, where she received treatment for her injuries and nutritional deficiencies. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of veterinary staff, Lipsy’s health has since improved, and she is now considered healthy enough to be rehomed to a caring family.

Inspector Nichola Waterworth expressed her concern and disappointment over the case, stating, 'Lipsy was really, really thin and didn’t deserve this. She’s a beautiful dog, so friendly and so loyal. I’m just so glad that a member of the public was kind enough to report her to us and that we were able to rescue her in time and rehome her with someone who will treat her well.'

Following the investigation, Hoppley admitted to causing Lipsy unnecessary suffering by neglecting her veterinary needs, which is a violation of the Animal Welfare Act 2006. Her guilty plea led to a court hearing where she was sentenced to a 12-week custodial sentence, suspended for 18 months. Additionally, she was ordered to complete 25 days of rehabilitation and pay a victim surcharge of £154. The court also imposed a seven-year ban on her from owning or caring for any animals, a restriction set to expire in June 2032, reflecting the seriousness of her actions and the commitment to animal welfare enforcement in the Manchester area.