The Institute of Community Sustainability (ICS) is set to approach the Supreme Court to seek a legal order compelling the enforcement of laws that prohibit the slaughter and consumption of dogs and cats in Ghana.
Speaking in an interview on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, the Executive Director of the institute, Eric Jerry Aidoo, stated that the legal action aims to protect both companion animals and public health.
He explained that the institute is seeking the strict enforcement of Section 303 of the Criminal Offences Act (Act 29), as amended by the Criminal Code Amendment Act, 1998 (Act 554), which criminalises the illegal slaughter and consumption of dogs and cats.
Mr Aidoo stressed that the continued brutal killing of these animals for human consumption across parts of the country is unlawful, maintaining that companion animals deserve full legal protection.
He posited that dogs and cats are not livestock, but animals that form strong emotional bonds with humans and serve as household companions.
Raising public health alarms, he warned that the unregulated slaughter and handling of companion animals significantly heighten the risk of zoonotic diseases, particularly rabies.
He further argued that, unlike livestock such as goats, pigs, poultry, cattle, and fish, there are no regulated dog or cat farms in Ghana, suggesting that many of the animals consumed are obtained through theft and illicit trade.
Speaking to host Kwabena Agyapong, Mr Aidoo asserted: “People who consume cats and dogs can easily kill their fellow humans and consume them.”
He added: “Dogs and cats have proven to be loyal companions and vital members of our households. They are classified as pets and not for consumption. As an institute, we believe that the cruel slaughter of these animals must end. We are calling on the highest court of the land to uphold the law and protect both our animals and our public health.”
The Executive Director emphasised that the suit forms part of broader efforts to advocate for legal compliance, environmental welfare, and animal rights in Ghana.
He clarified that the lawsuit is not a public relations stunt, but a genuine campaign to ensure that pets and companion animals are safeguarded under the law.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
