Dog meat can’t cure heartbreak – ICS debunks viral claim

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, 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 some women consume dog heads based on the belief that it strengthens emotional resilience and guards against infidelity.

The group further noted that some respondents claimed 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 exploit vulnerable individuals, promote cruelty toward animals, and offer 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 the health risks, the group emphasised that dogs and cats should be regarded as companion animals rather than food.

Following its findings in Accra, ICS says 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 aim to equip women with practical tools for building emotional resilience without resorting to unverified spiritual practices.

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