Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, June 20, 2025 – The Cayman Islands Department of Agriculture (DoA) reminds the public of the critical role that Animal Welfare and Control Officers play in safeguarding animal welfare and ensuring community safety. These officers work tirelessly to rescue animals in need, investigate cases of neglect and abuse, educate the public on responsible pet ownership, and enforce animal welfare laws.

The Role of Animal Welfare Officers
Animal Welfare Officers operate under the Animals Act (2024 Revision) and hold the same rights and immunities as Police Constables. Their responsibilities include responding to reports of animal cruelty, managing the animal pound, educating the public, and ensuring compliance with animal welfare regulations. Their work is essential in maintaining the well-being of both animals and the public.

Public Cooperation and Officer Safety
While carrying out their duties, officers may face challenging situations. The DoA urges the public to cooperate with Animal Welfare Officers and treat them with respect as they work to protect the community. Threats, verbal abuse, physical intimidation, online harassment, or any actions that put an officer in fear of imminent harm are taken seriously and may result in legal consequences. Any individuals found threatening officers will be reported to the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS) and may face prosecution.

“Every day, our officers put themselves in challenging situations to safeguard the well-being of animals, and the community across the Cayman Islands. “We believe that it’s equally important to protect our officers while they conduct their duties effectively and efficiently, and we are asking for the public’s cooperation and support. By working together, we can ensure the safety of both animals and the officers dedicated to their protection and the protection of the community,” said Director of Agriculture, Mr. Wilbur Welcome.

Reporting Animal Welfare Concerns
The Department of Agriculture encourages residents to report animal welfare concerns through appropriate channels, and to avoid obstructing officers in the execution of their duties.

If you need to report an animal welfare issue, please use the contact details below:

Contact Animal Welfare and Control Officers Directly
Animal Pound Located on 135 Agricola Drive, Bodden Town, Grand Cayman
Main Phone number: (345) 947-3090
Animal Welfare Emergencies number: (345) 916-3051
Main Office Email: [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]>

Anonymously Report Animal Cruelty
Email: [email protected]
Submit an animal cruelty report online: https://doa.gov.ky/service/animal-welfare-and-control-services/
For emergencies, call: 9-1-1

Report to Cayman Crime Stoppers
Website: www.caymancrimestoppers.com<http://www.caymancrimestoppers.com>

For more information on the work of Animal Welfare and Control Officers, visit www.doa.gov.ky<http://www.doa.gov.ky>.

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About the Department of Agriculture (DoA):
The Department of Agriculture aims to foster sustainable agricultural production, enhancing self-sufficiency and food security in the Cayman Islands. The Department extends a range of services, from agronomical to veterinary, and wholly supports the Ministry of Planning, Lands, Agriculture, Housing and Infrastructure in implementing its policies and strategies.