The Institute of Community Sustainability (ICS) has called for an immediate ban and criminalisation of the slaughter and consumption of cats and dogs in Ghana, warning that the practice poses serious public health and ethical concerns.
According to the organisation, cats and dogs are not livestock but vital members of households and the broader national community, serving emotional and security roles that should not be undermined.
In a press release dated February 23, 2026, and signed by its Executive Director, Eric Jerry Aidoo, the Institute formally declared its opposition to what it describes as the high consumption of cats and dogs in parts of the country.
“We are calling on the government, the media, and the general public to recognize that these animals are not livestock, but vital members of our homes and our national community,” they noted.
ICS stated that cats and dogs provide companionship and emotional support to families, particularly children and the elderly, while also functioning as protectors and early warning systems for homes and businesses.
The statement added, “By treating these animals as meat, we diminish their value as loyal partners in our daily lives and undermine the social fabric of our communities.”
Beyond ethical concerns, the Institute warned that the unregulated slaughter and handling of these animals expose the public to dangerous diseases.
It cited rabies which is a fatal viral infection often associated with infected dogs, trichinellosis as a parasitic disease contracted from contaminated meat, and cholera as a risk linked to unsanitary conditions in trade operations if these meats.
The Institute is formally urging the Minister of Health to implement decisive measures immediately.
“We demand the following: A Total Ban: An immediate prohibition on the slaughter of cats and dogs for human consumption.
Criminalization: The passing of legislation to criminalize the trade, transport, and sale of cat and dog meat.
Public Awareness: A national health campaign to educate citizens on the zoonotic risks associated with these meats.”
The Executive Director, Eric Jerry Aidoo, emphasised that urgent action is necessary to safeguard both public health and animal welfare and stressed that “We cannot sit idly by while public health is put at risk and our loyal companions are mistreated.”
The statement continues, “It is time for Ghana to align with global health standards and ethical practices. Cats and dogs are our family, they deserve protection, not the slaughterhouse.”
The Institute added that it remains committed to promoting a sustainable, healthy and compassionate Ghana. It further urged media organisations to amplify the message and called on the public to support the campaign.
