The Institute of Community Sustainability (ICS) has announced plans to file a case at Ghana’s Supreme Court seeking the enforcement of Section 303 of the Criminal Offences Act (Act 29), as amended by the Criminal Code Amendment Act, 1998 (Act 554), to curb the illegal slaughter and consumption of dogs and cats.
In a statement issued on Monday, 28 July 2025, the organisation said the legal action is aimed at compelling the enforcement of existing laws against the killing and consumption of companion animals, which it described as both an animal welfare and public health concern.
According to ICS, dogs and cats continue to be slaughtered for human consumption in parts of the country despite the legal provisions governing such practices. The organisation argued that companion animals should be recognised as members of households rather than sources of food.
The group also raised concerns about the potential spread of zoonotic diseases, particularly rabies, through the unregulated slaughter and handling of dogs and cats. It warned that the practice poses a significant threat to public health because there are no regulated systems for breeding or processing such animals for human consumption.
ICS further claimed that the absence of licensed dog or cat farms in Ghana suggests that many of the animals consumed may have been stolen from households, contributing to what it described as a growing problem of pet theft and illegal animal trade.
“Dogs and cats have proven to be loyal companions and vital members of our households,” said Eric Jerry Aidoo, also known as Chairman Jerry, Executive Director of ICS.
“The widespread theft and 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,” he added.
The organisation said it remains committed to promoting legal compliance, environmental sustainability and the protection of companion animals across Ghana through advocacy and public education.
Eric Jerry Aidoo is the Executive Director of the Institute of Community Sustainability.
