World Animal Day
World Animal Day is commemorated every year on October 4. The day aims to raise awareness about the abuse and illegal killing of animals around the world and highlight how important it is to protect them and assure their welfare. It is our responsibility to make sure that both wild and domestic animals are kept safe in their habitats. Other campaigns include stopping the testing of products on animals, which is currently a widespread form of abuse.
Background
The day was founded by Heinrich Zimmerman in 1925. Zimmerman was a journalist who wrote for a magazine about animal welfare and how important it was to protect them. It was through his magazine that he advertised World Animal Day, which at first was observed on March 24. The date was changed to October 4 in 1929, and the only countries to celebrate the day were Germany, Austria, the former Czechoslovakia, and Switzerland. The day was officially adopted by the International Animal Protection Congress in 1931, and the day became an international holiday, observed around the globe.
World Animal Day is observed on October 4 in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, who is the patron saint of animals and was thought to have a very special connection with animals, with claims that he was even able to communicate with them.
The aim of the organizations that organize World Animal Day is to elevate animals to the status they deserve. There has been a lot of progress regarding animal protection and habitat conservation since the first World Animal Day, but there is still a long way to go.
Many species are endangered by poachers and illegal hunters, pets are still bred for profit with no compassion, and animals are still the victims of testing, among other issues that currently affect them. Animal lovers on World Animal Day raise awareness about these issues, and campaign for the improvement of animal welfare standards, advocating for better laws that protect animals.
World Animal Day brings together people from all over the world that share their love for animals, regardless of nationality, politics, or faith. This day is all about the animals and how we can come together to ensure that they are protected from abuse.
What to do on World Animal Day
If you are an animal lover there are many ways to get involved with World Animal Day.
If you have the time to do it, it is a great idea to volunteer with an animal shelter or an animal rights group. Look up some in your area to see which ones are doing work that you’d like to be a part of.
Many abused animals end up in shelters, so if you’ve been thinking about adopting an animal, there is nothing better than giving a home to an animal who has been abused and deserves a new, happier chance in life.
Some animal organizations host events on this day, such as peaceful protests, seminars, and awareness rallies. You can participate in them and get learn more about animals. Zoos, shelters, and veterinary clinics may also organize events to raise funds and awareness, so participating in them is a great way to help the animals.
