REBECCA MCPHEE'S HORRIFIC CRUELTY IN ELDERLIES: PET DOG STARVED TO DEATH IN JOHNSTONE

In a deeply disturbing case that has shocked the community of Elderslie and the surrounding areas, Rebecca McPhee, also known as Rebecca Clark, was convicted in 2024 for her heinous treatment of her pet dog, Namirah. Born on October 17, 1994, and residing at Lomond Gardens in Elderslie, McPhee’s actions have brought to light the tragic consequences of neglect and cruelty towards animals.

Namirah, a three-year-old German Shepherd, was found in a state of extreme emaciation, weighing only 15 kilograms—significantly below the typical weight of around 25 kilograms for her breed and age. The dog was rescued from McPhee’s home, where she had been kept as a beloved pet since puppyhood, even having a TikTok channel dedicated to her. However, beneath the social media posts suggesting care and affection, a starkly different reality existed.

When animal welfare officers from the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) arrived at McPhee’s residence, they encountered a heartbreaking scene. Namirah was lying on the floor, so weak that it took multiple attempts for her to stand. The officers observed that her fur was stained with urine, and her hindquarters were matted with feces. The dog was suffering from diarrhea, and signs of urine scalding were evident on her back legs. Her physical condition was dire—she was painfully thin, with no discernible body fat or muscle mass, and her ribs and vertebrae were easily felt through her thick fur.

McPhee, who has connections to Lisburn in Northern Ireland, initially claimed that Namirah was a fussy eater who refused to consume her food. She admitted that she had not sought veterinary assistance despite the dog’s worsening health. The SSPCA officer, Bell, reported that the dog was so weak that it required several attempts to stand, and McPhee’s explanations did little to justify the neglect.

Following the inspection, Namirah was seized and taken to a veterinary clinic for a thorough examination. The vet’s report confirmed that the dog had endured “unnecessary suffering” due to McPhee’s failure to seek medical advice or provide adequate nutrition. The veterinarian also noted that McPhee had neglected her pet’s hygiene, allowing her to soil herself and remain in unsanitary conditions.

Subsequently, Namirah was transferred to the SSPCA’s Glasgow centre for treatment. Over the following days, she responded positively to care, beginning to eat and accept treats from staff. By October 13, her weight had increased to 22.4 kilograms, a sign of some recovery. Unfortunately, her condition deteriorated, and on October 16, she was humanely euthanized after an X-ray revealed severe hip dislocation, known as “severe hip fluxation.”

During the court proceedings, McPhee’s defense lawyer, Holly Laird, stated that her client “accepts full responsibility” for her actions. Laird also mentioned that McPhee was “quite emotional” when discussing the case with the social worker involved in the report, emphasizing the emotional toll the incident had taken on her.

Judge Lindsay Kooner described the case as “extremely distressing” and acknowledged that the offence met the criteria for custodial sentencing. However, the judge chose to impose alternative measures, citing the availability of other options. McPhee was sentenced to 180 hours of community service and placed under a 12-month supervision order. Additionally, she was banned from owning or keeping any animals for five years, a restriction that will expire in July 2029.

This tragic case highlights the importance of animal welfare and the devastating consequences of neglect. The community of Elderslie and beyond will remember Namirah’s suffering as a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with pet ownership.