World Animal Day is tomorrow, but it dates back to October 4, 1931 when, at a convention in Florence, a group of ecologists sought to raise awareness for endangered and rare animal species. On this day, animal life, in all its forms is celebrated, and special events are planned in locations all over the globe. These 24 hours are the chance to give back and celebrate animal life in an especially special way (as every day is "world animal day") in all its shapes and sizes, from mice to elephants, and recognize the positive influence they have on our lives. Over the years, World Animal Day has evolved into a day to honor all animal life and appreciate the love and companionship of our companion animals.
October 4th was chosen as World Animal Day as it is the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals. World Animal Day, however, has now gone beyond being the celebration of a Christian saint and is today observed by animal-lovers of all beliefs, nationalities and backgrounds. Animal blessings are held in churches, synagogues, and by independent animal chaplains in parks and fields. Animal recue shelters hold fundraising events and open days, wildlife groups organize information displays, schools undertake animal-related project work like organizing trips to shelters and farms. Individuals and groups of friends or co-workers donate to animal charities or pledge to sponsor a shelter animal. People donate food/money to cat and dog shelters or adopt an animal. You could even organize an animal related quiz night to raise money for animal charities.
World Animal Day is celebrated in different ways in every country, with no regard to nationality, religion, faith, or political ideology.
