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By Efua Nessa
Accra, May 4, 2026 – The Institute of Community Sustainability (ICS), an advocate against dog and cat meat consumption, has officially dismissed claims that eating dog meat, particularly dog heads, can prevent heartbreak or marital problems.
During a recent community outreach and fact-finding campaign across neighborhoods in Accra, the ICS team discovered a concerning trend. Many women interviewed reported consuming dog heads under the belief that it “strengthens the heart” against emotional pain or infidelity.
“Our findings indicate that this practice is not simply a dietary choice but is often guided by spiritual advice,” said Eric Jerry Aidoo, Executive Director of ICS. “Many women shared that pastors and spiritual leaders specifically instructed them to eat dog heads as a form of akwankyre—spiritual guidance—to protect their marriages or shield themselves from heartbreak.”
Mr. Aidoo emphasized that heartbreak is a psychological and emotional experience, not a biological condition that can be cured by consuming an animal. “There is no scientific or logical basis to the belief that eating a dog’s head provides emotional strength. This superstition causes unnecessary harm to animals and gives vulnerable women a false sense of security,” he added.
The ICS strongly condemns the promotion of such practices and is calling on pastors, prophets, and spiritual leaders to immediately cease issuing these directives. The organization urges clergy to focus on offering sound emotional counseling and marital support rather than encouraging the slaughter of domestic animals for unfounded spiritual rituals.
Dogs and Cats Are Family, Not Food
Beyond ethical concerns, consuming dogs and cats poses serious public health risks, including the potential transmission of zoonotic diseases. Dogs and cats are companions, family members, and not meant for consumption.
Following the revelations in Accra, ICS plans to expand its advocacy nationwide. The organization invites Ghanaians, animal welfare activists, and community leaders to join its upcoming campaign in the Volta Region, which aims to:
Educate the public on the emotional and social intelligence of dogs and cats
Empower women with practical tools for emotional resilience
Debunk the myth that animal cruelty provides spiritual protection
“Our goal is to build a more compassionate Ghana, where our best friends are protected—not served on a plate under the guise of spiritual healing,” concluded Mr. Aidoo.
Eric Jerry Aidoo
Executive Director, Institute of Community Sustainability (ICS)