The Institute of Community Sustainability (ICS) has dismissed claims that consuming dog meat, particularly the head, can protect individuals from emotional heartbreak or marital breakdown.
In a statement issued on Monday, May 4, the organisation said the assertion, which is reportedly gaining traction in parts of Accra, has no scientific or psychological basis.
According to ICS, findings from a recent community outreach and fact-finding exercise revealed that several women consume dog heads based on the belief that it strengthens emotional resilience and guards against infidelity.
The group further noted that some respondents indicated they were advised by pastors and spiritual leaders to adopt the practice as a form of akwankyerɛ (spiritual direction) to sustain their marriages.
Executive Director of ICS, Eric Jerry Aidoo, described the claim as misleading and harmful.
“Heartbreak is a psychological and emotional challenge, not a biological or spiritual condition that can be cured by consuming an animal. There is no scientific or logical basis to this claim,” he stated.
He warned that such beliefs not only exploit vulnerable individuals but also promote cruelty toward animals while offering a false sense of security.
The organisation has therefore called on religious leaders to refrain from promoting what it describes as unsubstantiated practices and instead focus on providing sound emotional and marital counselling.
ICS also raised public health concerns, cautioning that the consumption of dogs and cats could expose individuals to zoonotic diseases.
Beyond health risks, the group emphasised that dogs and cats should be regarded as companion animals rather than food.
Following its findings in Accra, ICS said it will extend its awareness campaign to the Volta Region, where it plans to engage communities on emotional well-being, animal welfare, and the dangers of harmful myths.
The campaign will also seek to equip women with practical tools for building emotional resilience without resorting to unverified spiritual practices.
