Department of Agriculture Issues Strong Warning on Stray Animals and Full Enforcement of the Animals Act
May 28, 2026
Castries, Saint Lucia – The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Security is once again reminding all livestock owners that the irresponsible management of animals will not be tolerated, as the Department moves to strengthen enforcement action against stray and roaming animals throughout Saint Lucia.
Stray cattle, horses, goats, donkeys, sheep and other livestock continue to pose a serious danger to motorists, pedestrians, private property, agricultural lands, and communities across the island.
These incidents have resulted in road accidents, destruction of crops and property, and unnecessary risks to human life.
The Department wishes to make it abundantly clear that livestock owners have a legal responsibility under the Animals Act to properly secure and control their animals at all times. Animals found roaming public roads, highways, communities, or trespassing on private property are liable to be seized and impounded by authorized officers.
The Department has engaged in years of public sensitization, consultations, tagging exercises, and repeated appeals to livestock owners. Despite these efforts, the problem persists and continues to threaten public safety and national order.
Department of Agriculture Issues Strong Warning on Stray Animals and Full Enforcement of the Animals Act Under the Animals Act, livestock owners who fail to control their animals may face significant penalties, including fines, impoundment costs, prosecution, and possible imprisonment. The law further provides authority for the seizure and disposal of impounded animals where owners fail to comply within the stipulated period.
The Department particularly warns owners against allowing animals to graze along highways, road verges, public spaces, and unfenced properties. Claims of land constraints or informal grazing arrangements do not exempt owners from their legal obligations and responsibilities.
The Department also reminds the public that animals tied in unsafe areas, including close to pedestrian access routes and roadways, may also be subject to impoundment if they pose a hazard to the public.
The Department is therefore urging all livestock owners to take immediate corrective action by:
- Properly fencing and securing animals
- Ensuring adequate supervision and control of livestock
- Utilizing approved grazing areas responsibly
- Cooperating fully with tagging and identification systems
- Removing animals from public roads and unsafe locations immediately
The Department of Agriculture will continue working with stakeholders and livestock owners toward long-term solutions; however, public safety remains the priority and enforcement measures will be applied where necessary.
The Department is appealing to all livestock owners to act responsibly and avoid the financial and legal consequences associated with non-compliance.
The Department thanks the public for its cooperation as we work collectively to protect lives, property, agriculture, and the safe use of our national road network.