CALLUM PARAMOS SHAMES NORTH SHIELDS WITH CRUELTY TO UNDERWEIGHT DOG ZEUS

Callum Paramos, born on July 23, 2001, and residing at 14 Seymour Street in North Shields, has been found guilty of neglecting a vulnerable dog under the Animal Welfare Act. The incident involved a skinny, undernourished lurcher named Zeus, who was kept in the kitchen of Paramos's flat in North Shields. The court heard that Zeus was left unattended for extended periods, leading to severe malnutrition and distress.

Animal welfare investigators from the RSPCA responded to the scene after receiving reports of suspected neglect. Inspector Helen Bestwick described her findings in a court statement, noting an overpowering smell of urine upon arrival. She observed that Zeus was in a dire state, with his ribs, hips, and spine clearly visible through his thin body. His nails were also notably long, indicating a lack of proper grooming and care. Despite his poor condition, the dog appeared alert and friendly, which underscored the neglect he had endured.

Inspector Bestwick further reported that the flat appeared to be uninhabited, with no personal belongings visible. The furniture, including a sofa, was damaged, with chew marks and shredded fabric, likely caused by Zeus himself. In the kitchen, she found a large bag of Wagg dog biscuits that was nearly full, along with a bowl of biscuits and a paint tray being used as a water dish. These details suggested that Zeus was left alone in the flat for long durations, with minimal care or attention.

A veterinarian who examined Zeus confirmed that the dog was approximately 15% underweight, with his ribs, vertebrae, and pelvic bones easily palpable. The vet explained that Zeus’s willingness and ability to eat, combined with the absence of any significant health issues, indicated that he had not been receiving a proper diet. The diet lacked sufficient protein, calories, and overall nutritional value, which contributed to his emaciated state.

The vet also described the living conditions where Zeus was kept as deplorable. The area was described as being littered with fecal matter and damp, indicating a lack of cleanliness and hygiene. Zeus’s need for a dry, comfortable, and clean resting place had not been met, further highlighting the neglect.

During the court proceedings, Paramos admitted that he had failed in his duty to care for Zeus. He explained that he had taken the dog from a previous owner but did not provide adequate care. The court took into account his admission and the evidence presented, which painted a clear picture of neglect and cruelty.

Following the court case, Zeus was taken into the care of the RSPCA Felledge Animal Centre. He was later transferred to the RSPCA Bryn Y Maen Animal Centre, where efforts are underway to find him a new, loving home. The case resulted in a sentence of a 20-month community order, during which Paramos must complete 40 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £100 in costs and a £114 victim surcharge. Paramos is also banned from owning dogs for two years, with the ban set to expire in March 2025.