ICS takes dog and cat meat trade to Supreme Court in landmark animal welfare case

The Institute of Community Sustainability (ICS) is escalating its campaign against the slaughter and consumption of dogs and cats in Ghana by approaching the Supreme Court to enforce long-standing but rarely enforced legal protections for companion animals.

In a statement released on Monday, 28 July, the environmental advocacy organisation announced it will petition the apex court to compel enforcement of Section 303 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29), as amended by the Criminal Code (Amendment) Act, 1998 (Act 554). The legal action reflects growing concern among animal welfare advocates that existing law criminalising the practice remains unenforced despite documented cases of pet theft and slaughter across the country.

Public health and animal welfare concerns

ICS argues that the unregulated slaughter of dogs and cats poses significant public health risks. Unlike licensed livestock farming for cattle, goats, pigs, poultry and fish, Ghana has no recognised or regulated dog or cat farms. This absence of oversight means there are no standardised breeding, slaughtering or inspection systems, exposing consumers to serious health hazards.

The organisation specifically highlights the risk of zoonotic diseases such as rabies, which can transfer from animals to humans through uncontrolled slaughter practices. Additionally, the lack of regulation creates space for stolen pets to enter the supply chain, fuelling concerns about a growing illicit trade in companion animals.

Eric Jerry Aidoo, Executive Director of ICS, framed the legal action as essential to protecting both animals and public welfare. "Dogs and cats have proven to be loyal companions and vital members of our households. The widespread theft and cruel slaughter of these animals must end," he stated, calling on the Supreme Court to uphold existing legislation and provide greater legal clarity on the status of companion animals.

Why this matters for Ghana

This case represents a critical moment for animal welfare advocacy in Ghana. Although Section 303 of the Criminal Offences Act explicitly criminalises the slaughter and consumption of dog and cat meat, enforcement has been inconsistent or absent in practice. Many Ghanaians remain unaware that the law exists, whilst those engaged in the trade operate with relative impunity due to weak enforcement and limited public awareness.

A Supreme Court ruling in favour of ICS could establish clear judicial precedent requiring law enforcement agencies to actively prosecute offences under the statute. Beyond animal welfare, the case touches on broader questions about Ghana's commitment to animal protection laws and public health standards, particularly in an era of growing concern about zoonotic disease transmission.

The case also signals shifting attitudes towards companion animals in Ghana. As urbanisation increases and more households adopt dogs and cats as family pets, cultural and legal perspectives on their status are gradually changing. A successful court action could accelerate this shift and influence future animal welfare policy.

ICS's broader campaign

This Supreme Court petition caps years of sustained advocacy by ICS. The organisation has previously conducted public education campaigns highlighting the welfare implications of the dog and cat meat trade and the associated health risks. ICS has also engaged government institutions, law enforcement agencies and animal welfare stakeholders, pushing for stricter enforcement and greater legal protection.

If the Supreme Court grants ICS's reliefs, the decision could lead to more robust enforcement of laws against the slaughter, sale and consumption of dog and cat meat across Ghana. It may also clarify the legal status of companion animals, set a foundation for stronger animal welfare legislation and pressure government to allocate resources to enforcement.