October 4 is World Animal Day and it is the time for all animal lovers to show us their compassion. Unlike humans, animals can’t talk in a conventional way and therefore there is one day when we can all give a voice to the animals who cannot speak for themselves. People spanning the globe will come together to celebrate World Animal Day on October 4. Animals will consistently have a strong impact on the region’s culture in any corner of the planet, no matter which country you explore.
History
In 1925 Heinrich Zimmermann who was the publisher of a German animal lovers’ magazine, “Man and Dog,” launched World Animal Day to raise awareness and improve animals’ welfare. October 4 is also known as Saint Francis of Assisi’s feast day, the animals’ patron Saint. Saint Francis was beloved among all Catholics and was famously recognized for his unique way with animals and all living things.
This Day has also become a platform for ecologists to debate the problems related to endangered species. The UK-based charity, Naturewatch Foundation, starting in 2003, has funded the event and organized ways for animal lovers all across the world to participate and make their voices heard in favor of our animal friends. World Animal Day is for domesticated animals, as well as for wild animals, endangered species, and those threatened by lack of protection or environmental devastation. This day is a reminder to respect and appreciate all living things that are a part of our ecosystem.
Timeline of World Animal Day
530 BCE (Going Greek) – Greek philosopher Pythagoras was the first in a line of various Greek and Roman philosophers to teach that animals have souls and supported vegetarianism.
1624 (Early Vegan’s) – One of the first books advocating for animal rights was published by early vegan Lewis Gompertz. The publication’s name is “Moral Inquiries on the Situation of Man and of Brutes.”
1877 (The Power of Literature) – First English novel written from the perspective of a non-human, that spurred debate over the treatment of horses was Anna Seawell’s novel Black Beauty.
1931 (Animal Victory) – World Animal Day was unanimously accepted and adopted globally by the International Animal Protection Congress in Florence Italy.
1955 (SAPL Makes Waves) – The first organization to lobby for humane slaughter legislation in the United States was the Society for Animal Protective Legislation (SAPL).
FAQs About World Animal Day
Where can my pet be blessed on World Animal Day?
Ask your local Catholic church if they are offering animal blessings.
Are there any events on World Animal Day?
It is a global holiday, research local animal conservation centers and shelters to find out if there are any options for you to give back.
How do I participate in World Animal Day?
There are many things that you can do. You can donate to your favorite animal rights organization, volunteer at a local conservation center or shelter, or join in a peaceful protest.
Read about World Ranger Day
How To Observe World Animal Day
Get involved
Get involved with any of the official events happening on October 4, this will be one of the best ways to do your part. The official World Animal Day website is a good place to start, there you can get the assistance coming up with an idea, arranging a plan, and putting it into action.
Adopt a pet
On World Animal Day, pet adopt-a-thons are a typical event held in many cities and it is a small action that can make a big difference. At these events, participants can learn about pet care and ownership, buy pet-related toys, and products, share stories with fellow pet owners, and more.
Join a peaceful protest
On October 4, peaceful protests are also commonplace around the world. These can vary from the better treatment of agricultural livestock to the entire termination of recreational activities such as whale slaughtering, bullfighting, and poaching elephants and other wildlife.
Interesting Facts About Animals
Sealife
When seahorses travel, they hold each other’s tails and it is known that they mate for life.
Heartheaded
A shrimp’s heart is located in its head.
Outside Voices
The loudest sound of any animal (188 decibels) is produced by the blue whales.
A Tiger cannot change its stripes
The skin of a tiger also has stripes and each pattern is as individual as a fingerprint.
Flamingos are naturally white
Their diet of algae, shrimp, and brine, turns them pink.
Why Is World Animal Day Important
Protecting the Ecosystem
As we all are aware, ecosystems are incredibly fragile. When one species flees for any reason, it often has grave consequences for the rest of the system. By celebrating World Animal Day, we grow awareness about the significance of preserving the balance in our ecosystems. This guarantees tens of thousands of people will maintain their fishing and farming livelihoods.
It unites us all
World Animal Day’s mission is to bring together all humans for the sake of improving the lives of animals. This means all people, in spite of nationality, political ideology, religion, or faith are welcome to join in to make a difference. The highest goal is to assure animals are recognized as conscious beings and we do all we can to enhance their welfare.
It has been a success
In improving the lives of animals, World Animal Day has seen great success over the years. In Egypt, there are additional clauses in the Egyptian constitution that offer animal rights. Likewise, in Sudan, parliament has introduced renewed legislation meant to safeguard animals.
