LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – Raquel Leviss and James Kennedy, former stars of Vanderpump Rules, shared custody of their dog named Graham during their relationship. However, allegations have arisen that James mistreated the dog.
James introduced Raquel to the Vanderpump Rules cast when they began dating during Season 5 of the reality TV show. Their relationship faced challenges even before it came to an end.
The couple started dating in 2016, and James proposed to Raquel in May 2021 with a lavish Palm Springs Cochella-themed celebration called “Rachella.” However, they announced their breakup in December 2021 on Instagram, and Raquel returned her engagement ring during the Vanderpump Rules Season 9 reunion.
After their separation, Raquel and James agreed to co-parent Graham. However, while Raquel was staying at a mental health facility, James regained custody of the dog and renamed him “Hippie.”
During Raquel’s first podcast episode for “Rachel Goes Rogue,” she revealed that James had a troubling relationship with Graham, alleging that he encouraged the dog to bite people. She described James as an irresponsible dog owner who would taunt and antagonize Graham, even kicking him off the couch while he was sleeping.
Raquel’s parents initially cared for Graham while she was at the mental health facility, but they eventually transferred him to a goldendoodle rescue center. Lisa Vanderpump discovered Graham’s whereabouts through his microchip and returned him to James without informing Raquel. James, along with his girlfriend Ally Lewber, now officially owns the dog and decided to change his name to “Hippie.”
This mistreatment of Graham appears to be consistent with how James treated Raquel, often belittling her and becoming hostile, particularly when he was intoxicated. As Raquel and James have gone their separate ways and no longer interact, Raquel is unable to see the dog she once co-owned.
In summary, Raquel Leviss and James Kennedy, former stars of Vanderpump Rules, had a contentious relationship that extended to their dog Graham. Raquel has alleged that James mistreated and encouraged aggressive behavior from the dog. After their breakup, James regained custody of Graham, renaming him “Hippie.” Raquel no longer has access to the dog she once shared.