Today is World Animal Day!

Today (4 October) is World Animal Day, which raises awareness about animal rights, welfare, and conservation.

It is a worldwide celebration dedicated to raising awareness about the protection and care of animals, which encourages individuals to take action to safeguard the creatures we share our planet with.

The day also serves as a reminder of the crucial role animals play in our lives and our responsibility to ensure their safety and wellbeing.

4 October was chosen in honour of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals, whose deep compassion for all living creatures inspired the world.

History

World Animal Day was first celebrated in 1925 by Heinrich Zimmermann, a German writer and animal welfare activist. His goal was to raise awareness about the need to protect animals and promote animal rights across the globe.

He initially held the event on the 24 March 1925 in Berlin, attracting more than 5,000 attendees. By 1929 the date was moved to October 4 to align with the feast day of St Francis of Assisi.

Over the years, World Animal Day has grown into a truly international movement, supported by governments, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and individuals who are passionate about animal welfare.

The world is their home too

This years theme is "the world is their home too" which highlights animals' entitlement to a secure and protected environment where they can thrive.

It serves as a platform to highlight critical issues such as species extinction, animal cruelty, and the illegal wildlife trade, as well as a call to action for improved policies and practices that protects animals globally.

The day emphasises education, awareness and action for animal welfare, including:

• raising awareness - it highlights the struggles animals face due to habitat loss, poaching, and climate change, encouraging people to learn and advocate for their protection;
• promoting animal rights - the day calls for fair treatment and stronger laws to prevent cruelty, recognising animals as sentient beings deserving respect and compassion;
• encouraging positive action - it inspires individuals and organisations to engage in activities that improve animal welfare, such as donations, volunteering, and wildlife conservation;
• fostering compassion - it promotes the idea that humans have a responsibility to care for animals, advocating for humane practices and sustainable living.

Take part

World Animal Day is a chance to reflect on our relationship with animals and take meaningful steps towards coexistence and harmony.

Small acts of kindness and larger conservation efforts can make a significant difference. Ways to take part in the day includes:

• hosting or attending awareness and educational events such as conferences and workshops;
• attending shelter open days and pet adoption events;
• taking part in fundraising events such as concerts, sponsored walks, bake sales, coffee mornings, or gala balls;
• encouraging school events to educate the younger generation early on by using animal-related competitions, concerts and films;
• attending workshops with owners of working animals;
• reading or watching World Animal Day content to further under its mission;
• attending peaceful protest marches;
• attending or creating a World Animal Day event;
• taking part in animal awareness days throughout the year.