Ghana: The Institute of Community Sustainability (ICS) has filed a case at Ghana’s Supreme Court to stop the slaughter and consumption of dog and cat meat. The organisation demands the court to enforce Section-303 of the Criminal Offences Act and said that the practice threatens animal welfare and public health because it is largely unregulated.
ICS group stated that, since there are no officially recognised dog or cat farms, some of the animals could be stolen pets. The organisation suggested that many of the animals consumed may have been obtained through theft or illegal trade.
Executive Director of ICS – Eric Jerry Aidoo, popularly known as Chairman Jerry, said that the Dogs and cats have proven to be loyal companions and vital members of households. The widespread theft and cruel slaughter of these animals must end. They are calling on the highest court of the land to uphold the law and protect both their animals and public health.
The Institute of Community Sustainability said that its legal action forms part of its broader advocacy for legal compliance, environmental welfare and the protection of companion animals in Ghana.
According to ICS, dogs and cats are companion animals that develop close emotional bonds with humans and should not be treated as food. The organisation also warned that the unregulated slaughter and handling of the animals pose significant public health risks, including the possible spread of zoonotic diseases such as rabies.
An organization has filed a case at Ghana’s 🇬🇭 Supreme Court to stop the slaughter and consumption of dog and cat meat.
The Institute of Community Sustainability wants the court to enforce Section 303 of the Criminal Offences Act, saying the practice threatens animal welfare… pic.twitter.com/fiUSNEhkKK
— Africa View Facts (@AfricaViewFacts) July 29, 2026
About Rabies
Zoonotic diseases such as Rabies are infections that spreads naturally from animals to humans. Rabies being a fatal viral example spread through bites or scratches. Other major types include avian influenza, brucellosis, and leptospirosis.
They Spread
Bites and Saliva: Direct contact with infected animal spit via breaks in the skin (common with rabies).
Food and Milk: Eating undercooked meat or drinking unpasteurized dairy products.
Environment and Water: Contact with mud, soil or water touched by animal urine or waste.
Preventive Measures
Vaccination: Keep pets and livestock up to date on shots and get immediate post-exposure vaccines if bitten.
Hygiene: Wash hands well after touching animals or cleaning waste.
The official statement was released on Tuesday, July 28, 2026; the organisation said that it is seeking strict enforcement of Section-303 of the Criminal Offences Act (Act 29), as amended by the Criminal Code Amendment Act, 1998 (Act 554), which it contends criminalises the killing and eating of companion animals.