Animal rescuers in Detroit are calling for accountability after a dog was found dead in a garbage can on Crane Street. The dog, which had been previously seen in poor condition, was discovered emaciated and frozen, with food placed on top of it. Chantel Rzewnicki and Melanie Thomas, co-founders of Karens Animal Rescue, say that this case is just one example of a much larger pattern of neglect.
The Karens Rescue, which has been operating in Detroit for three years, had previously helped the dog’s owner with food and shelter. However, they claim that the owner’s cooperation was inconsistent, with dogs constantly coming and going. The situation worsened over time, with reports of emaciated and mistreated dogs, including one that was allegedly abused in May 2024. Despite multiple reports to Detroit Animal Care and Control (DACC), the Karens say they received little response, and the conditions for the animals never improved.
The situation came to a tragic head in February 2025, when the dog was found dead in a trash can. The Karens are now questioning the effectiveness of DACC’s involvement, noting that no follow-up visits were made after previous reports of neglect. “That dog is dead because of them — because they didn’t do their job,” said Chantel, expressing frustration over the lack of action from authorities.
Local 4 reporter Erika Erickson confronted the dog’s owner, who denied any wrongdoing. The owner claimed to have loved the dog and even provided pictures from the dog’s first birthday. When asked about the dog’s condition, the owner said it had run away and frozen to death. The owner was also vague about the number of dogs in her care, initially stating there were two, then one, before eventually saying all of the dogs had run away.
The Karens have since sent the dog’s body for an autopsy and received preliminary results, confirming neglect. They are now pushing for criminal charges against the owner and demanding better oversight from DACC. “Something has to give,” Melanie said, echoing the frustration of those working to protect animals in the community.
The case has highlighted ongoing concerns about animal welfare in Detroit, with rescue groups calling for stronger enforcement and better support for abused and neglected animals. The Karens Animal Rescue, despite facing overwhelming challenges, continue their fight for the animals that cannot defend themselves.
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