World
Animal Day was first launched in 1931 at a convention of ecologists
to draw attention to the plight of endangered species. Its scope
has since developed to encompass the animal kingdom in general.
The 4th October was chosen for the day because it is the Feast
Day of St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals.
World Animal Day is intended as a day of celebration for anyone
in the world who cares about animals. It is not restricted to
any one nationality, creed, religion, political belief or ideology.
World Animal Day is celebrated annually in many countries, including
Singapore, Malta, Lithuania and Australia.
World Animal Day - Mission Statement
• To celebrate animal life in all its forms
• To celebrate humankind’s relationship with the animal
kingdom
• To acknowledge the diverse roles that animals play in
our lives – from providing food, through being our companions,
to supporting and helping us, to bringing a sense of wonder into
our lives
• To acknowledge and be thankful for the way in which animals
enrich our lives
• World Animal Day takes place every year on 4 October.
Animal welfare groups, sanctuaries and individuals throughout
the world hold special events to heighten public awareness of
animal issues and to encourage people to think about how we as
humans relate to animals.
How you can help
To get involved, all you need is an idea. In fact, you don't even
need that as WAD have plenty of ideas for your successful World
Animal Day contribution. And of course they will help you to advertise
your event for free. Visit their Get
Involved pages for more information.
Or how about helping to spread the word by sending your friends
a special World Animal Day e-card.
Events Calendar
Their events diary can be viewed here World
Animal Day Events Diary
To view events planned for 2008 around the UK and the rest of
the world simply click on their interactive map. |
