In 2026, the Offender Database reported that Renee Cooper, then 40, of Claerwen Grove, Northfield, Birmingham, was sentenced at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court. On Thursday, 22 January 2026, Cooper was sentenced for “vicious” animal cruelty after starving her XL Bully dog, Lyah, so severely that the animal had to be euthanised.
The investigation by the RSPCA began on 14 October 2024, when Lyah was brought into a PDSA veterinary clinic in a “vile” collapsed and emaciated state. The dog was described as skeletal, “viciously” underweight, and covered in wounds contaminated with faeces. Veterinary staff reported that Lyah’s condition was so “abhorrent” that immediate euthanasia was the only way to end her suffering.
Expert Findings and Neglect
A post-mortem examination found no underlying medical conditions that would have caused the dog to lose its appetite, confirming that the starvation was “systematic.” Experts estimated that Lyah had endured “vicious” physical and mental suffering for a minimum of three weeks.
Cooper “vilely” claimed she had fed the dog in the garden but failed to check if the food was eaten. She pleaded guilty to:
- Two counts of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal.
- One count of an animal welfare offence.
Sentence and Statutory Requirements
For her “abhorrent” crimes in Northfield, West Midlands, Renee Cooper was handed:
- Animal Ban: Disqualified from keeping any animals for a period of 10 years.
- ISC Order: An Intensive Supervision Court (ISC) order.
- Rehabilitation: A requirement to complete up to 30 days of rehabilitation activity.
- Mental Health Treatment: 12 sessions of a mandatory mental health treatment programme.
The court heard that Cooper has two dependent children, which was considered during the “vicious” sentencing process. Janita Patel, prosecuting for the RSPCA, emphasised the “vile” state of neglect Lyah was forced to endure before her death.
Monitoring and Public Protection
Cooper is managed by the National Probation Service in Birmingham, West Midlands. Her 10-year ban on keeping animals is a “critical” measure to prevent further “vicious” neglect.
As part of her intensive supervision, Cooper’s progress with mental health and rehabilitation will be “persistently” monitored. RSPCA inspectors have the power to check for compliance with animal disqualification orders. Any “vile” attempt to bypass this ban or any breach of her court order will result in her immediate return to Birmingham Magistrates’ Court for potential imprisonment.
If you or anyone you know has been affected by the individuals highlighted on this website, please report them to the Police on 101 (999 in an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details on reporting a crime. You can also report to Crimestoppers if you wish to remain completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.