About Us
The Animal Welfare Advocacy Group (AWAG) brings together Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs), Government of Jamaica (GOJ) entities, the Private Sector, Charitable Organisations, and individual animal welfare advocates, to provide a framework for all interested groups and individuals to play a role according to their area of expertise and level of commitment in promoting the humane treatment of animals.
AWAG will maintain partnerships with governmental and civil society groups which share similar concerns for the welfare of animals in Jamaica including groups and individuals outside of our jurisdiction.
You Have the Power to save Wildlife
Our Vision
We have a vision of a Jamaican society that is fully aware of the importance of animal welfare as a critical component of national development and the building of a civil society.
Our Mission
To bring together all players who have an interest in advocating for the humane treatment of animals, around common goals that improve their lot. We will create a framework for a National Animal Welfare Plan that stimulates government action enabling the society to move forward in compliance with international standards.
Our Strategic Goals
- To create a framework for a National Animal Welfare Plan (NAWP) and to collaborate and cooperate with the Government thereafter to implement the plan. The NAWP will address a range of requirements, including human resources and expertise, financial support and infrastructure such as animal shelters. It must be recognised that the need to eliminate cruelty to animals applies to both domestic and indigenous wild animals, many of which are viewed with antipathy and killed for no reason.
- To lobby the Government to ensure that there is an effective legal framework in relation to animal welfare, and that resources are allocated to enforce the laws. We believe Jamaican legislation on animal welfare must be raised to international standards with the added benefit of improving our optics as a nation.
- To implement a programme of public education and support educational mechanisms to bring about the humane treatment of animals in Jamaica.
- To create and brand a volunteer programme that broadens the reach of support services for the humane treatment of animals and to deliver training programmes to better equip volunteers.
Our Membership
AWAG has a broad based membership that includes veterinarians, animal welfare professionals, development specialists, educators, social sector workers, young professionals, volunteers and advocates.
Our Executive
- Dr. Blossom O'Meally-Nelson, Coordinator
- Dr. Barbara Carby
- Mrs. Cindi Scholefield
- Mrs. Marie Baillie
- Dr. Paul Cadogan
- Dr. Simone Johnally
- Ms. Wendy Lee
We Need Your Help!
Help make a difference to an animal welfare organization today! Your contribution can provide shelter, food, medical care, and other essential resources to animals in need.