October 4th is the Feast Day of Saint Francis of Assisi – and World Animal Day.
The World Animal Day mission, as set out on the official website is:-
- 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 being our companions, 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
The annual day was started in 1931 by ecologists at a convention in Florence, to highlight the plight of endangered species. It now aims to improve animal welfare everywhere, and today animal welfare activists all over the world are organising events.
Since 2003 Naturewatch Foundation has run the official World Animal Day web site, and the number events being held is growing every year.
Please see more info and news about events here World Animal Day .