This is an international day of action for animal rights and welfare celebrated every year on 4 October.
This day is a tribute to all the amazing animals that we share this planet with . This day is celebrated to spread awareness about the animal issues that exists in the world .
Afterall we are just a part of Earth’s immense diversity and it’s our duty and responsibility to take care of our neighbours that we live with . We need to safeguard this beautiful planet for our future generations also .
World Animal Day, was originated by cynologist Heinrich Zimmermann. The day is kept to align with the feast day of Saint Francis of Assisi , the patron saint of animals.
Francis of Assisi
Francis of Assisi is the common name of Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone . He is the founder of Secular Franciscan order . He led a life of travel and in his second enlisting in the army he realised he wanted to work for poor people . Coming from a rich family this changed his life completely . His love for animals is infamous and that also made him a patron saint of animals .
For everyone who cares about animals, October 4th is a time to celebrate and pay tribute. To acknowledge their role in our life. To be thankful of thier lovely presence and positive influence in our lives .
The mission of World Animal Day is to…
- Celebrate animal life in all its forms.
- Celebrate humankind’s relationship with the animal kingdom.
- Acknowledge the diverse roles that animals play in our lives.
- Acknowledge and be thankful for the way in which animals enrich our lives.
How can we celebrate this day ?
Is it something that only some big organizations can celebrate or something that few activists can ??
Not really we all can celebrate it in our small ways .
Afterall every impact matters and has the ability to create difference .
Donate : If you want to help but have no time you can donate to the organisations that work for animals .
You don’t have to have huge amount of money for it
Just imagine even a small amount that matters nothing to you will add up to a huge amount if done by thousands of people .
Educate yourself : awareness is the best way . Afterall one needs to be aware of problems first then only we can work on resolving them .
Make yourself aware about animal issues and if possible what as an individual can we do about it .
Spread awareness in your community and friends . Maybe do something by combined efforts .
Volunteer : you can volunteer at your local shelter or sanctuary . Volunteering will help you interact with animals more and maybe make good connections for the future .
Avoid products that hurt animals : nowadays there are ample resources to know where your food or products are coming from. A quick google search will provide you with enough information for you to take an ethical decision.
Lets celebrate this day with warmth and care .
Make yourself aware and others too . Enjoy this day of togetherness and love .
Malvika Tiwari, |