In recent times it has become apparent that some folk’s stomachs grumble when they see dogs, but consumption of dog meat is illegal in Jamaica under the Cruelty to Animals Act. Other types of meat are also prohibited due to public health and environmental regulations. So, what are these restricted meats?

The Cruelty to Animals Act states: “Every person who cruelly beats, ill-treats, starves, beats, over-drives, over-rides, over-loads, abuses, tortures, or otherwise maltreats any animal, shall be guilty of an offence against this Act.”

The law does not explicitly mention dog meat consumption. However, it generally protects animals from cruelty, and local attitudes and laws around consuming dogs are influenced by cultural and public health concerns. Furthermore, to consume Spot or Rex, one would have to harm them to do so.

Meats Off-limits for human consumption

Jamaican law bans the slaughter and consumption of cats, dogs, horses, mules, and donkeys with restrictions enforced under the Public Health Act. Much like the Cruelty to Animals Act, the Public Health Act doesn’t specifically address all of these animals. It is a law aimed at ensuring food safety, and the restrictions that are governed by other laws or public health concerns. For example, dogs carry parasites like worms, that can be passed on to humans which can be very harmful, so eating dog meat can be considered a dinner choice.

Other animals raised for food may carry parasites, but they undergo inspection by public health officials to ensure they are safe for human consumption and free from harmful parasites. However, dogs are not subject to such inspections, as they are not seen as ‘food animals’.

Additionally, certain wildlife species, such as sea turtles, are protected under the Wildlife Protection Act and international agreements like the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The Fisheries Act also prohibits the harvesting of some marine life, including parrotfish, to protect ecosystems.

Jamaica may be the land of ‘one love’, but it does not love people who eat strange meats, and you dare not try and serve them these meats should they come over for a little ‘Sunday bickle’.

Violators of these laws may face penalties, as authorities work to ensure food safety and animal welfare across the island.