The Executive Director of the Institute of Community Sustainability (ICS), Eric Jerry Aidoo, has described the killing and consumption of dogs and cats as a violation of animal rights, calling for stronger action to protect these animals.
Speaking in an interview with Kojo Marfo on the DayBreak show, monitored by Kumasimail, Mr. Aidoo stressed that dogs and cats should be treated as companions rather than sources of food.
“It is against their rights. They are family; they are not meat, they have souls,” he emphasized.
“Yes, some may argue that people slaughter goats, cows, and hens, but the difference is clear. If you are attacked in your home, can a goat or hen defend you? They can’t. That is why they are used primarily as sources of protein.”
Mr. Aidoo questioned the moral motivation behind the consumption of pets, describing them as “innocent animals” that deserve human care, not cruelty.
“What kind of appetite do you have that makes you want to eat innocent animals like dogs and cats? Have you ever seen a cat harming someone before?” he asked.
Sharing his experiences from his travels, the ICS Director revealed his surprise at the growing demand for dog meat in some parts of the country.
“In one community I visited though I won’t mention its name, dog meat was even more expensive than goat or chicken because of its high demand,” he noted.
When asked whether his advocacy against dog and cat consumption had gained public backing, Mr. Aidoo expressed satisfaction with the level of support received.
“I am truly amazed by the support from the public,” he said. “It is quite unfortunate that among the Frafra people, eating dog meat is still considered part of their culture. However, apart from such isolated communities, many Ghanaians have overwhelmingly supported our campaign to criminalize the consumption of dog meat.”
Mr. Aidoo reaffirmed his commitment and that of the Institute of Community Sustainability to advocate for animal welfare and push for legislation that protects domestic animals from slaughter for food.
Meanwhile, Mr. Eric Jerry Aidoo is embarking on a tour of the Northern and Volta Regions to raise public awareness on why dogs and cats are family members, not food.
Source: www.Kumasimail.com
