The Animal Welfare Advocacy Group (AWAG), led by president and co-founder Dr Blossom O’Meally Nelson, has been in talks with several stakeholder groups to promote the humane treatment of animals. AWAG is growing in strength, having built working relationships with the Ministry of Agriculture, Mining and Fisheries and the Jamaica Constabulary Force.
Its recommendations for updating animal welfare legislation are being reviewed and “have made every effort to get the Ministry of Tourism to set standards for animals used in tourism”, notes Dr O’Meally Nelson. They are concerned at the proliferation of “fake vets” and are alerting the public to ensure that they use licensed practitioners for the protection of their animals. AWAG is planning a public education programme and is reaching out to media for their support.
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