Location: NEPAL
Event: World Animal Day Celebration
Hosted by: Directorate of Livestock Production, Dept. of Livestock Services, Government of Nepal

This year we celebrated World Animal Day with grand success raising public awareness about animal welfare. The celebration was a week long program which commenced with a press release and awareness program on the radio on 4th October. The celebrations concluded on 8th October with an interaction program and a grand closing ceremony.

Here are the celebrations and events conducted to mark World Animal Day 2009.

1. Press Release and Radio Program:
On 4th October, 2009, the Directorate of Livestock Production circulated a press release with information about World Animal Day, its celebration in Nepal and importance of animal welfare. The news was covered by most of the national media (radio, newspapers and televisions). On the same day there was a radio program about World Animal Day and importance of Animal Welfare. The program was fully devoted to creating awareness about animal welfare.

2. Speech Competition:
A Speech competition was organized among students of secondary level. The topic was "Role of Animals in Society". The participants were students of schools in the Kathmandu Valley. The winners were awarded with cash prizes and certificates during the closing ceremony.

3. Drawing Competition:
Drawing competition among the children of primary level was organized on 8th October, 2009. Theme of the drawing competition was "Our Animals Our Pride". Participant of the competition were children of primary level from schools in Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur.

4. Animal Photo Competition
Amateur photographers all over the country were asked through national newspapers to submit via email photos of animals taken by themselves. There was an overwhelming response from all over the country. The selection panel selected the best pictures and again, the winners were awarded with cash prizes and certificates during the closing ceremony.

5. Distribution of pamphlets and Caps
Pamphlets containing the message about World Animal Day and importance of animals and their welfare were distributed to the general public throughout the week. In addition, caps with the World Animal Day logo were distributed to all the participants during all celebrations and to the general public.

6. Interaction Program
An interaction program with the presence of many stake holders was organized on 8th October. The topic of the interaction was "Status of Animal Welfare in Nepal and Role of Stakeholders".

In conclusion, the program was a great success and was able to generate public awareness about animal welfare. The celebration also urged for coordination among stakeholders for improvements within animal welfare.

Report submitted by: Mr. Uday Chandra Thakur, Program Director, and Dr. Yadav Sharma Bajagai, Livestock Development Officer, Directorate of Livestock Production, Hariharbhawan, Lalitpur, Nepal. Ph: +977-1-5522031, Fax: +977-1-5542016 E-mail: dolp@wlink.com.np

Location: MALAYSIA, Kuala Lumpur
Event: Celebration of World Animal Day
Hosted by: SPCA Selangor

Many thanks to all the volunteers, fosterers, donors, sponsors and friends of SPCA Selangor who attended our World Animal Day celebrations on the 4th of October!

The short and meaningful ceremony started at 2.30 pm, and included a speech by the SPCA Chairman Christine Chin, a pledge to help animals (read together aloud!), and a pledge wall signing session for penning personal pledges and thoughts for the animals.

There was also an Appreciation Awards ceremony, where we recognized and thanked individual volunteers, fosterers, donors, and long-time friends of our organisation. The recipients were given a chance to say a few words, to encourage others to put their compassion into action for the animals!

And the most beautiful and touching part of the day – the candle-lighting. With the calm and quiet chants and prayers by a priest from the Sri Nivas Ashram, one by one the guests came forward to light the scented tea-lights – in memory of animals that have passed on, and in hope of a brighter future for animal welfare in Malaysia.

Emcee Shahrul encouraged the crowd – “Remember the plight of animals worldwide, strengthen your will to help them, and honour the beautiful memories of animals that have touched your life. Remember your pets, our shelter animals, the strays on the streets, animals that are left neglected by their owners, and the animals in captivity who are suffering in zoos and parks.” The tone changed to something more somber, thoughtful, and more meditative.

More than 100 friends joined us for this simple celebration - special guests included MBPJ Councillor Anthony Thanasayan, Datin Nariza Petra, Radio personality Kudsia Kahar, Arthasarathy Sampath (Spiritual Advisor, Sai Nivas Ashram) & his wife Kanaka Sampath, Rachel Ng (former Miss Malaysia), ex-national badminton star Cheah Soon Kit and his lovely wife Anita. Guests took home their personalized pledge cards and free “I Pledge To...” carsticker.

After the ceremony, everyone mingled and enjoyed a delicious vegetarian buffet! We hope everyone will follow through with their pledges to honour, respect and care for the animals around them! Jacinta Johnson.

Location: MALAYSIA, Penang
Event: Awareness Day
Hosted by: SPCA Penang

On World Animal Day we held an 'Open Day' at our shelter. We opened our doors to the public in the hope that more animals would be adopted which would save more lives. We organized the following:

1. Health Scan check by Pharmanex for visitors - to ensure that our potential pet owners were in good health enabling them to be committed to their pets.
2. Animal Health Corner manned by our Hon. Veterinarian Dr. G.S. Gill - who gave free consultations to pet owners about the health of their pets.
3. Dog Obedience Training Tips by our Volunteer Trainer Ms. Donna Chee – Visitors with problem pets were given a free consultation.
4. Pet Adoption - Visitors were able to browse through our kennels to see the animals available for adoption.
5. Sale of our SPCA merchandise to raise funds for the animals.

Our aim was to create awareness about the work and activities of the SPCA.  Our Open Day attracted about 100 visitors and we hope to do better next year. Lily Leng, Administrator.

Location: KUWAIT
Event: Paw Printing Day / Launch of Yappy Hour / Open Day
Hosted by: Animal Friends League of Kuwait

The Animal Friends League of Kuwait celebrated their first World Animal Day by holding a paw printing day with some of their shelter dogs. These one-off pieces of art were then sold off to raise much needed funds for the shelter.

Yappy Hour was also launched, which is an opportunity for dogs, big and small can enjoy off leash play time in a safe environment. Yappy Hour will take place on the last Saturday of every month and all proceeds go to Animal Friends League.

On 23rd October, a Shelter open day was held where animal lovers from all over Kuwait were able to come and enjoy the day walking the dogs, feeding the donkeys, playing with the cats, cuddling the bunnies, learning about the baboons, and getting their faces painted! A fun day was had by all. Children were able to learn about interaction with animals, and a lot of awareness was raised about what the organisation does on a day to day basis. Olivia Kimble

Location: ISRAEL - Tel-Aviv
Event: Farm Animal Awareness Event
Hosted by: Anonymous for Animal Rights

On October 4th, World Animal Day, dozens of animal rights activists, supporters and caring people participated in a demonstration marking the 27th annual event to highlight farm animal issues. Our event was held at a central location in Tel Aviv, the intersection of King George and Ben Zion streets (near Dizengoff Center). The demonstrators held vigil, handed out information leaflets to thousands of bystanders and passerbys, and protested against the suffering of more than 200 million farm animals that are raised in Israel each year for the production of meat, eggs and dairy. 

The demonstrators focused on the cruel treatment of 7 million chickens in Israel's egg production industry and protested against the "reform" in this field which is being promoted by the Ministry of Agriculture. According to the planned reform, old chicken coops in the Galilee will be replaced by new large battery cage complexes. In battery cages, chicken are densely packed into cages for their entire lives, and each laying hen is afforded an extremely limited and confining area of 550 square centimeters (just under an A4 size page). Although battery cages have been banned in all E.U. countries, as well as in Switzerland and California, the Ministry of Agriculture in Israel plans to cut down 1,200 dunams of natural scrubland and spend more than 75 million $ in order to construct new battery cage complexes.

Ronen Bar, organizer of the demonstration, said in a statement to the press that the Ministry of Agriculture's own data indicate that constructing chicken coops without cages would be less expensive than the proposed battery cage plan and noted that Israeli consumers are increasingly demanding products of higher quality. Finally, he urged the Ministry of Agriculture to conform to national legislation and to international animal farming standards by implementing a less cruel and more modern and moral alternative. Naomi Oppenheimer, Board member.

Location: IRAN - Karaj
Event: Raising awareness of WAD/Fundraising Party/Dog Bath/Information Stall
Hosted by: VAFA Animal Shelter (Centre for Animal Lovers)

VAFA published a World Animal Day Fact Sheet to help spread the message about the importance of World Animal Day; held a Fundraising Party; gave all dogs at our shelter an anti-flea bath with the help of our volunteers; held a World Animal Day information stall at a charity event and finally, a well-deserved lunch for everyone involved. Fatemeh Motamedi, Founder of VAFA and Iran's World Animal Day Ambassador.
Click here to view pdf file.

Location: AMMAN
Event: Middle-Eastern Workshop Conference
Supported by: SPANA Jordan / TEAX-EU

The Society for the Protection of Animals and SPANA - Jordan participated in the Multi-Country Workshop Conference held in Amman on 4th October to address animal welfare issues in the various participating countries in the Middle East and to look at ways of improving animal protection legislation in these countries. This event was supported by TEAX-EU. SPANA participated in the preparation of the Conference and contributed to a working paper submitted by the Assembly, in partnership with one of the clubs, to incorporate animal and environmental protection material into relevant student study syllabuses. The main objective being to encourage a new generation aspiring to achieve a greater awareness of the importance of improved standards of animal and environmental protection. The conference, held on World Animal Day, was very helpful in raising awareness and drew attention to special publications highlighting the role of the Assembly working to protect animals from cruelty and services provided by the Assembly for the care of animals. It was also an opportunity to draw the attention of the participants to the importance of World Animal Day. Dr Ghazi Mustafa, SPANA- Jordan.

Location: CHINA - Hong Kong
Event: Children's and Youth's Colouring and Drawing Competition
Hosted by: Concern Animal Heart

Location: MALAYSIA
Event: Shelter Open Day / Children's Art Contest
Hosted by: Furry Friends Farm

Furry Friends Farm, an Animal Sanctuary for abandoned dogs and cats celebrated World Animal Day in high & cheerful spirit. The event was held in conjunction with its 3rd Anniversary and the official launching of its new 2-acre premise in Kundang.
 
The event kicked-off with the welcome speech by Furry Friends Farm Founder, Ms Sabrina Yeap.  Sabrina who, with the help of a few volunteers, has single-handedly run the Farm since 2006 thanked everyone for sharing this special moment with Furry Friends Farm and the furkids. Sabrina said “I wish to thank all the volunteers without whom Furry Friends Farm would not have got this far. I would like to emphasize the importance of volunteer work as this is an important element in any charity-based organisation. From our humble beginnings with only one volunteer, we have expanded to 6 permanent volunteers and countless volunteers who help in many ways. Today, we are proud to show the public our new premise. The Sanctuary is however not yet complete as we have yet to add more facilities for dogs and cats”.
 
Later, the cake-cutting was organised on stage and was ‘attended’ by 5 very special canine celebrities. Spotted on stage was 'Kuning' the hero dog who helped in the search and rescue mission of abandoned dogs at the Pulau Selat Kering. In May 2009, a major rescue mission was launched to rescue the stray dogs abandoned at Pulau Selat Kering. The strays were dumped and left to fend for themselves on the uninhabited island. 30 dogs were rescued from the island and they are now residing at Furry Friends Farm. After the cake cutting, Sabrina announced the end of the Rescue Mission of Pulau Selat Kering by Furry Friends Farm. She also mentioned that, the last dog spotted on the Island had been rescued and is named Sakura. Sabrina also mentioned, "I also wish that Malaysia will become more considerate towards stray animals and hope that this sad incident will not happen again. Strays come from irresponsible owners who dump their animals and failed to sterilize them. Dumping them on an island is cruel and inhumane and will not solve the problem.  We have to look at long-term solutions and nurture a responsible approach to pet ownership. Also, people should stop buying animals from pet shops and save lives instead by adopting pets from shelters. Today, on the celebration of the World Animal Day let us all pay tribute to all the animals for their contribution to humankind. Let us all pray for the betterment of animal welfare in Malaysia, which is long overdue. Furry Friends Farm plans to include the celebrate of World Animal Day in our calendar of events."
 
Afterwards, a vegetarian lunch was enjoyed by everyone and Dr. Dogs were seen mingling with the guests. Dr. Dog is an animal-assisted therapy program initiated by Sabrina Yeap in collaboration with Animal Asia (AAF). The canines are selected for their good temperament and behavior. The program has successfully visited Old Folks Home and Orphanages providing animal-therapy to residents. All guests enjoyed the event and spent quality time with residents of Furry Friend’s Farm while learning more about our work.
 
On the 9th October, 2009, Furry Friends Farm had successfully organised the World Animal Day Children's Art Contest in one of the Pre-schools in Kuala Lumpur. Jewel , the Furry Friends Farm's 3rd Ambassador visited the children and her story was told by Sabrina to the school children and teachers. Everyone felt very sorry for Jewel for being knocked down twice by cars and eventually losing one of her legs. Jewel's courageous spirit in continuing her happy life at the farm moved the childen and teachers. 31 children aged 4 - 6 participated in the Art Contest with great enthusiasm. Jewel plays a vital role  participating in  Furry Friends Farm's Animal Welfare Education Programme in schools and presented prizes to the children after the contest. It was indeed a fun World Animal Day celebration for Jewel, the children and teachers on that special morning.

Location: NEPAL - Kathmandu
Event: Awareness Event
Hosted by: KAT Centre

To celebrate World Animal Day on October 4th, Kathmandu Animal Treatment Centre held an information stall at Bhatbhateni, one of the busiest and most popular shopping complexes for both locals and expatriates.  The stall, open throughout the day, had displays and posters of World Animal Day, what our Organization does for the benefit of street dogs, the ABC program, our anti-rabies campaign done in conjunction with the Municipality, pictures of street dogs that come to us with mange and maggots who, following treatment by our vets, soon become healthy dogs. The stall was visited by people from all walks of life. Our staff briefed people about the work we do, distributed pamphlets and newsletters, all of which was very well received. Some people gave donations to our work which will be used to help support our successful ABC sterilization program and treatment for sick and distressed animals. Prerna Rai, Communications Officer.

Location: NEPAL - Kathmandu
Event: Children's Essay Competition
Hosted by: National Zoonoses and Food Hygiene Centre (NZFHRC)

Location: Malaysia
Event: Fundraising / Animal Communication
Hosted by: Art Accent Gallery & Malaysia's WAD Ambassador

Our fundraising event was held at the Art Accent Gallery @ BV2 during a solo exhibition of an entirely new collection of horse art paintings by Lim Ah Cheng. A percentage of the proceeds was donated to Furry Friends Farm to help the animals involved in the Pulau Ketam incident. Dato’ Bridget Lai, CEO of Alliance Bank Group and an animal lover, officiated the event. Many turned guests turned up for the exhibition including media and close friends. It was a day to remember. This event enabled us to donate RM18k to Furry Friends Farm. A further report about our Animal Communication event will be added shortly. Meem Siah Li Ming.

Location: ARMENIA
Event: Exotic Bird Exhibition / Humane Education / Concert
Hosted by: Khatutik

From year to year people in Armenia, especially children and youths, are becoming increasingly aware of World Animal Day and the importance of it. This is partly due to the regular activities undertaken by “Khatutik” throughout the entire year and special events devoted to the promotion of World Animal Day. Our first event was held at the Armenian Wood Carving Museum on 4th October where we jointly implemented a number of animal & bird related projects. An exhibition of exotic birds was held for families in the square outside the museum. The museum director, Henrik Solakhyan, an animal lover, spoke to the children and their parents about the birds, their behaviour and care. Groups of children spoke about their pets, sang songs and recited poems about animals. All the children who participated were given sweets and presents by “Khatutik”. We distributed information sheets about World Animal Day and WAD in Armenia to everyone who attended and to people who were passing by and stopped to look.

Our second event was held on 5th October in cooperation with the UMCOR charitable organization and took place in boarding and special schools. “Khatutik” organized and conducted lectures and practical training on animal care for students from boarding schools of Artik and Yerevan (capital of Armenia). Our third event was a World Animal Day Concert which was held in Gyumri. Students from different schools, their parents, representatives from the regions and several organizations took part in the show. Children prepared animal-related songs and recited poems about animals with support of “Khatutik”. The children prepared a wonderful wall newspaper (mural) with stories about animals. We also used this opportunity to acquaint the audience with the history of World Animal Day. Shushan Gyulkhasyan, Khatutik and World Animal Day Ambassador.
Image: Visitors to the exhibiton of exotic birds.

Location: SINGAPORE
Event: Paws & Purrs at the SPCA
Hosted by: Singapore SPCA

Since 1931, the 4th October has been a special day for animal lovers around the world as a day of solidarity to celebrate the special bond and respect between man and all creatures. Here in Singapore, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals celebrated World Animal Day by opening its gates at its current premises at Mount Vernon Road.

World Animal Day was an opportunity to build community awareness of the issues facing animal welfare and cruelty, providing opportunities for education and exploration of self awareness and, generally celebrate all animals. Although it was a sunny and extremely hot day, we weren’t complaining at all. It was a fun day with people constantly milling into the SPCA throughout the day. A key highlight at this year’s event was a dog behaviour booth where Kang Nee, a certified dog obedience instructor helped pet owners sort out pet behaviour problems. SPCA’s Information Officers were also present to answer any pet-care questions. Children had fun games, tattoo art, a magic show and our cat mascot, Max to entertain them. Tag, the adorable robot was a huge hit with the crowd with its interactive nature and cute remarks promoting responsible pet ownership.

On a more serious note, the SPCA took the opportunity to express its objection to the importation of part of a group of 18 dolphins which were reportedly caught from the wild in the Solomon Islands for Resorts World Sentosa. The SPCA believes that the act of taking these animals from the wild (endangered or not) is at odds with the spirit of Singapore’s Wild Animals & Birds Act, which prohibits the taking of an animal from the wild. Specially designed T-shirts were on sale priced at $7 to create awareness of the issue. Our “Say no to whale sharks in captivity” T-shirts were also on sale. Razor TV, the extended arm of Singapore’s most popular local English paper covered our event as well. Miss Chong Poh Choo, Education Office Singapore SPCA.

Location: TAIWAN - Taipei
Event: Dogathon/Agility Course/Dog Show/Entertainment/Painting Contest
Hosted by: Animals Taiwan Association

On October 4, 2009, Animals Taiwan held its first ever World Animal Day event featuring another first – a one kilometer dog-a-thon through the heart of the Taipei business district. This year’s theme was Adoption Saves! Abandonment Kills! Our purpose was to raise awareness to and educate about the stray animal population on our beautiful island and also about World Animal Day. Braving the rainy weather, hundreds of dog lovers came out in force to celebrate and commemorate their love and respect for their very special friends. The event, held in front of Taipei City Hall, with Taipei 101 in the distant skyline, also included an opening ceremony attended by local and foreign government officials and event ambassadors, a carnival featuring 60 booths, an animal blessing ceremony performed by Monsignor Paul Russell of the Embassy of the Vatican and an evening charity show with local celebrity performances. We also held a painting contest for students ages 8 to 12 and a coloring contest for those aged 5 to 7. The theme of this contest was “Animals have feelings, too. Don’t abandon your pet.” The winning paintings will be put on display at an official exhibition.
Animals Taiwan is a registered non-profit organization devoted to the rescue, recovery, care and adoption of stray dogs and cats in Taiwan. We are staffed with volunteers from around the world who share a common compassion for animal welfare and who are dedicated to improving the quality of life for the island’s abandoned and mistreated animal population. Our Beitou rescue center houses about 70 healthy animals, all of whom are currently awaiting adoption. With a staff of six and a volunteer base of over 500, Animals Taiwan holds regular fundraising and adoption events, a very successful sponsorship system and a newly launched educational outreach program. Animals Taiwan believes in giving every animal a chance of a fulfilling life, free from abuse and suffering. With the success of this year’s event, we plan to make it an annual affair to tell the citizens of Taiwan that “Adoption Saves! Abandonment Kills! ”

Location: CHINA - Hong Kong
Event: "Let's Talk on World Animal Day"
Hosted by: Alliance of Animal Communicators Caring About Animals (AACCA)

"Let Talk on World Animal Day!” was held a fundraising event for the benefit of three animal charities in Hong Kong: Hong Kong Dog Rescue (HKDR); Animals Asia; Stray Cats Home. On that day, the group shares our knowledge on how to better communicate and create better relationship with pet companions and promotes animal welfare so that as more people come to value and understand animals, fewer animals will be abandoned. On top of sharing, we also put the theory into acton by providing the following services: Animal Communication and Healing; Reiki for Animals.

Results: Total amount collected: HKD $7,153.6 which has been distributed as follows: Kong Kong Dog Rescue HKD$3,273.1; Animals Asia HKD$1,610.5 and Stray Cats Home HKD££2,270.

Alliance of Animal Communicators Caring About Animals (AACCA) is a non-profit group formed under Animal Talk Ltd in Hong Kong with the intention to make a difference in how we can assist in advancing animal welfare. Living in Hong Kong for over 30 years, and watching the changes taking place in animal welfare in Hong Kong, I am aware that the time is right to progress further in turning ideas for animal welfare into actions. Rosina Maria Arquati, Animal Talk Limited.

Location: CHINA - Hong Kong
Event: World Animal Day Worship
Hosted by: Animal Earth / Diaspora Production / Happy Animal

2009 World Animal Day Worship completed with about 120 guests attended with their dogs and cats (totalled 40-50).  Many come in a family.  Thanks God that the weather was extremely fine and we could sing with the dogs and enjoy the breeze and beautiful sunset.  We also collected pet food of over 129 pieces of cans plus another 4 packs of cat food, which we donated to the local organisations caring for the street dogs and cats. 

The event is ground-breaking as it is considered the first of its kind held in Hong Kong.  It was reported in local newspapers (Singtao, Mingpao, HK Economic Journal) and a local TV station (RTHK) also took this chance to record for a program on the topic of revising laws on adopting pets, in which Animal Earth is involved to push the revision.  The event also initiated an awareness on the need to rethink human-animal relationship in the church and it was the headline on a local christian newspapers (Christian Times). 

In Facebook a group unde the title "2009 World Animal Day Worship" was established and visitors can share the joys of that days by browsing through the over 300 photos there.  We wish it is just a start and we can continue and deepen the effort in the coming years. Daniel Ku.

Location: CHINA - Shanghai
Event: Saved from the meat trade!
Hosted by: Cat Owners’ Protection Group - Vicky, Joy and Sabrina

To mark World Animal Day, animal lovers in Shanghai rescued a group of dogs and puppies from a construction site and saved them from the meat trade, a fate some of their companions have very sadly already met. Site workers were catching the dogs and selling them for meat and had the same fate in mind for the puppies when they were full grown. A goup of girls approached the site workers and persuaded them to sell the dogs to them. A safe haven was found for them until suitable new homes can be found. The dogs were cleaned up, de-flead them and the puppies were given their first injection. The older dogs are a bit nervous at the moment but when they've settled down they will be spayed / neutered before being rehomed. Three of the puppies have already been adpopted which is great news. Vicky and Joy Gao and Sabrina.

Location: INDIA - New Delhi
Events: Toddler Taming!
Supported by: Little Food Junction

We celebrated World Animal Day in a bit different manner. As most of my little one's friends gather at my house to play, I thought it would be a great idea to throw a little theme party for them. It is very important to inculcate the feeling of love & compassion towards animals in our little ones. Making toddlers understand the term of being compassionate, kind and caring is quite difficult so I arranged an animal-themed party at my home and invited all my daughter's little friends. After narrating some animal stories, I served them animal- shaped sandwiches to make them understand the concept of
World Animal Day and also the meaning and importance of being kind towards all beings. Smita Srivastava 

Location: INDIA - Gorahkpur, Uttar Pradesh
Events: Student Awareness: The importance of animal welfare for human existence
Hosted by: Sanidhya Training & Service Institute

A program was organized by SANIDHYA TRAINING & SERVICE INSTITUTE, GORAKHPUR, UTTAR PRADESH, INDIA, aimed to aware that “How Important is Animal Welfare for Human Existence” - among the students in the Seminar Hall of Vikas Bharti School, Gorahkpur, U.P., INDIA. A very good presentation was prepared by students showing their enthusiasm and interest in the subject. A Quiz Competition for Sub Junior, Junior and Senior Categories was organized - 400 students participated. Prize & Certificate distribution was by Founder president of STASI - Dr. B.K. Singh, Prof. C.P.M. Tripathi - Head of Department, Zoology, D.D.U. Gorakhpur University, Mr. J.P. Singh-IPS, S.P. Railway and Mr. N.P. Penuli, Principal-Vikas Bharti School. Dr. B.K. Singh dedicated this program to prevention, conservation & protection aspects of animals. He said that though animal are so very useful to us, our lack of concentration and appreciation allowed the decline of animal population, we have to give them space and their natural pray for continuing our existence. We must encourage organic food and organic farming for sustainable development. Prof. C.P.M. Tripathi linked wild animals to one of Indian God,s family that is ‘Shankar’ by saying that, Shankar is wearing ‘Snake’ in his neck and his vehicle is ‘Ox’, his wife Parvati’s vehicle is ‘Lion’, his son Ganesha’s vehicle is ‘Rat’, other son Kartikeya’s vehicle is ‘Peacock’ and all these animals are enemy to each other even though they live in the same family with harmony.  This is one of the most relevant example that how we should live together by giving space to everyone to survive. Mr. J.P. Singh emphasized on cruelty against animal and said that they also have the right to live. Laws are there but Implementations are important and this can only be achieved by public participation and awareness. Principal N.P. Penuli expressed his gratitude to the children and said that animals are having some god gifted behavior, which alerts us against natural calamities in prior, need is to understand them. The program was ended with a high node and applauds and promises to commitment. Dr. B.K. Singh

Location: INDIA - Palakkad, Kerala
Events: Awareness Campaign
Hosted by: SMART Association

Location: KURDISTAN
Event: Children's Event at Duhok City Zoo
Hosted by: Kurdistan Animal Protection Society

Today the 4 October is the first time in our region's history that we celebrated World Animal Day. Our event was held at Duhok City Zoo with the participation of the Kurdistan Organization of Animal Rights Protection (KOARP), Veterinary Directorate, representatives off Duhok province, Chiman nursery school, Duhok zoo officials. The celebration included a welcome speech by Dr Sulaiman T Saeed, General Manager of KOARP and this was followed with a speech by Mr Majd S Salih, a government official, saying how much he appreciated the effort being made to make this day a success and how important it. Our event included activities such as the reciting of animal-related poems, singing and a puppet show presented by the students of Chiman Nursery School. This was followed by aerobic plays with animals presented by the zoo keepers. Finally, the awarding of prizes.

Location: LEBANON - Beirut
Event: Walk for the Animals
Hosted by: BETA (Beirut for the Ethical Treatment of Animals)

It was a wonderful day, with a little over 100 supporters. We started our walk at 12:30 with around 30 dogs, escorted by a few cops who opened up the roads for us. Volunteers passed out flyers, some held up posters, getting the attention of hundreds of passerbys, many who stopped and joined us. We finished the walk at 3 pm, it was a good day being able to reach more and more people about the importance of animal welfare and meeting new potential adopters and supporters. Joelle Elmassih

Location: NEPAL - Kathmandu
Event: Children's Essay Competition
Hosted by: National Zoonoses and Food Hygiene Centre (NZFHRC)

In Nepal, World Animal Day (WAD) 2009 was organized jointly by National Zoonoses and Food Hygiene Research Centre (NZFHRC) Chagal, Kathmandu, and Shree Paropakar Adarsha Higher School, Bhimsensthan, Kathmandu. An animal essay competition was the main theme of WAD and with the aim of promoting kindness to animals and protecting their rights. The competition was open for two months. We also gave a talk and Dr Joshi spoke about the importance and role of animals in our lives. Also, all the essays entered into the competition are going to be published in book form with illustrations. The Award Ceremony was held at the school attended by 70 students from classes 7 and 8. Out of these classes, 20 participated in the essay writing competition. The top 10 essays were selected and everyone was given a certificate for entering the competition. Prizes were given to the students placed 1st, 2nd and 3rd and gifts for the other 7. A Certificate of Appreciation was also given to the school Principal Mr. Mohan Bahadur to acknowledge the school's participation. NZFHRC also held a free animal rabies vaccination campaign in ward no. 19 and 20 of KMC for WAD 2009. Altogether 159 animals were vaccinated against rabies. Of which there was one monkey, one cat and the rest were dogs.

Location: PAKISTAN - Lahore
Event: Free Veterinary Treatment Camp /Imformation Stall / Walk for the Animals / Seminar
Hosted by: Vets Care Club, University of Veterinary & Animal Sciences,

World Animal Day is celebrated every year on 4th of October and is a fun way to explore the welfare of animals and to do something special for the creatures of Almighty. Joining hands with the international community, Vets Care Organization Pakistan organized a two-day Free Veterinary Treatment Camp on October 3rd & 4th at UVAS Outdoor Hospital. UVAS Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Nawaz inaugurated the Camp and congratulated the Vets Care Club and Vets Care Organization for organizing this camp to mark the celebration of World Animal Day. In his message, Prof. Nawaz said that animals are our companions and humans have the highest responsibility to take care of God’s creatures. He appreciated the camp organizers and assured his support in animal welfare activities. All animals that were brought to the UVAS Outdoor hospital were examined free of cost and free medicines were also provided with the cooperation of various pharmaceutical companies. A large number of animals including sheep, goats, horses, cattle, dogs, cats and birds were brought to the camp and the event attracted a lot of attention from the media. Various newspapers and TV channels covered it including Geo News, Aaj News, Express News, DAWN and others. Speaking to the media at the camp, World Animal Day Ambassador for Pakistan, Dr Waseem Shaukat, urged the people to love, care and save the animals. About 25 veterinary doctors and students volunteered their services for this noble cause. In addition, a large number of banners, posters, charts and pamphlets were displayed all over the UVAS campus and outside it for creating awareness regarding animal welfare issues, especially among the veterinary students and public in general. Vets Care Organization is thankful to all the pharmaceutical companies for their cooperation and to the media for highlighting this important event. Last but not least, we are thankful to all volunteers who spared their time for this noble cause. 

Secondly, a grand bird show was organized at Avari Hotel in Lahore by Budgerigar Society of Pakistan. Vets Care Organization Pakistan collaborated with the Budgerigar Society of Pakistan and held a special stall at the bird show to provide literature and pamphlets regarding World Animal Day to the people visiting the bird show. A huge pledge board for signing was also displayed at this show which stated that the signatory pledges will not practice any cruelty to animals and will have a caring and humane attitude towards animals. People from all fields of life including veterinarians, journalists, university students, families and the public in general signed the pledge. UVAS Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Nawaz, former provincial minister Rana Ikram Rabbani, famous TV actress Faryal Gohar, President of Lahore Press Club, Judge of the bird show Mr Gerd Bleicher and World Animal Day Ambassador for Pakistan Dr Waseem Shaukat also visited the stall and signed the pledge. In his message Faryal Gohar said that animals deserve to be treated in a humane way.

Our third event was a 'Walk for the Animals' along the Mall in Lahore was organized jointly by the Animal Foundation, Vets Care Organization, and Punjab Wildlife Department. A large number of people from all three organizations and members of the public participated in the walk to show their commitment for the care and welfare of animals. The main purpose of the walk was to create awareness amongst the general public regarding animal rights and their welfare. The walk attracted huge media coverage that included almost all TV channels and news papers.

Finally, our fourth events was a seminar on 'Vets & Animal Welfare' held on 15th of October where we will also screen the famous documentary “Earthlings".

Vets Care Organization Pakistan commits to continue such activities in future for the welfare of animals. We are dedicated to promote a humane and caring attitude towards all animals. We commit to make Pakistan, a friendly and cruelty free environment for animals. Waseem Shaukat, Pakistan's World Animal Day Ambassador.

Location: PAKISTAN - Lohari Gate, Multan
Event: Animal Welfare Rally
Hosted by: Animal Save Movement

Animal Save Movement Pakistan celebrated World Animal Day in Multan with an event to raise awareness of animal welfare issues and encourage respect for animals. Khalid Mahmood Qurashi President ASMP said, "we should love and respect animals just like our friends. Zoos are still in the dark ages and are deathtraps, not sanctuaries. Animals feel love, sorrow, fear and pain and deserve our kindness. They are not ours to eat, wear, experiment on or use for entertainment." ASMP demanded that veterinary hospitals should be set up for animals as well as having veterinary points in all the cities, towns and villages of the country. ASMP also stressed the need for establishing medical camps, provision of free vaccine for dogs, a ban on arranged animal fighting,and the reestablishment of the Veterinary Hospital at Lahori Gate, Multan. Babur Soekarno..

Location: INDIA - Islamabad
Event: Seminar to announce a new National Livestock and Dairy Development Policy
Hosted by: Ministry of Livestock and Dairy Development (LDD)

The Federal Minister for Livestock and Dairy Development (LDD), Mr Humayun Aziz Kurd highlighted the importance of animals for the existence of human life and its affects on national economic growth, in his message to those attending the seminar on the eve of World Animal Day. The Minister chose this occasion to announce that the government is formulating a new National Livestock and Dairy Development Policy for development of livestock, fisheries and dairy sectors. To revolutionise the livestock and dairy sector, more than Rs 10 billion will be used during the current year to develop the sector at grass root level. NWFP Minister for Livestock, Hidayatullah Khan, Federal Secretary, Ministry of Livestock and Dairy Development, Mohammad Ali Afridi, prominent scholars Dr Muneer Akram, Dr Abdul Ghaffar Khan and Dr Qurban Ali all presented their research papers on government activities and those within the private sector concerned with development of the Livestock, Fisheries and Dairy sectors. "Our rural population is playing a very vital role in milk improvement and the government has planned to spent Rs 3 billion on milk improvement projects in rural areas", the minister said. He said 12 development projects are in progress while various proposals are under consideration of the government. He said the government would encourage public private partnership in development of the Livestock and Dairy sector. He said the ministry is working on establishing eighty modern slaughter houses in the country besides the "Establishment of Hala Certification" to ensure safe supply of Halal meat locally and to enable entering the international market. He said, the Ministry has planned to spend one Rs1.5 billion on food certification projects as well as for the further promotion of camel farming in the country. Livestock Minister of NWFP, Hidayatullah Khan said co-ordination and co-operation is very important in the development of the sector for which provincial government is also working hard. Federal Secretary, Mohammad Ali Afridi in his address stressed on the need to adopt modern management techniques to make this sector a profitable agriculture industry. He said that the under Prime Minister's directives, Ministry of Livestock and Dairy development has established different task forces which comprise of all stakeholders including private sectors to formulate proposal and recommendations in short possible time. He said Livestock plays an important role in the economy of the country, which contributed approximately 51.8 per cent of the agriculture value-added and 11.3 per cent to GDP during 2008-09.

Location: PAKISTAN - Karachi
Event: Grand Bird Show Karachi
Hosted by: Budgerigar Society of Pakistan - Southern Region

The Budgerigar Society of Pakistan, Southern Region, organized its 1st ever Bird Show on Saturday 3rd October, in honour of World Animal Day, which was held at the Arabian Sea Country Club in Karachi. We were honoured to welcome the World Budgerigar Organization's Chairman & Judge, Hon. Mr Gerd Bleicher, who conducted the judging as per international standards. During the event, a presentation on animals & wildlife was made by Mr Waseem, President of PAPA, and Hon. Mr Baqar Shah, researcher & senior bird lover & nature. Habib-Ur-Rehman Sherani

Location: PAKISTAN - Lahore
Event: Animal Party
Hosted by: Lahore Zoo Education Department

On 4th October Lahore Zoo Education Department celebrated World Animal Day in the enclosure of the zoo's most loved elephant 'Suzi'. A large crowd attended the event and congregated around the outer paddock. A table for the cake was arranged in the center of the enclosure with gifts for all the different zoo animals. Suzi cut the cake surrounded by the Zoo Director, Education Officer, Veterinary Officer, Zoo Keepers and Field Staff.  They presented a basket of fruit to Suzi, and to the Giraffes, Twinkle and Sunny. The chimpanzees and other monkeys were given cake wrapped biscuits, juices and chips, and honey juice and bread was given to the bears. Not only did the animals enjoy this activity, the visitors found it very entertaining to see the animals have so much fun. Bushra Nisar Khan.

Location: PAKISTAN - Karachi
Event: Seminar
Hosted by: Department of Livestock. Government of Sindh

The Department of Livestock, Government of Sindh, celebrated World AnimalDay on 4th October 2009 in Karachi. The Government Minister of Livestock, Sardar Abdi Ali Jatoi was the chief guest of the day. Among the many distinguished guests were Mr Arif Jatoi Member Provincial Assembly Sindh, Mr Syed Asif Husnain Town Nazim and member National Assembly, Dr. Iqball Barula President Sindh Wild Life Conservative Society, Dr Ch. Abdul Rashid Livestock Expert, and Dr Ali Akbar Soomro Director Poultry Production and Research Sindh. World Animal Day commenced with an inaugural speech by our chief guest, Sardar Abdid Ali Jatoi Provincial Minister Livestock Government Sindh followed by an inaugural walk with various species of animals and birds. Animals and Animal lovers walked along the main road of Korangi in Karachi for about two hours displaying banners with message about the importance of treating animals with respect. After the walk, a talk was held in the premises of the Animal Science Complex where members of the National Assembly paid tribute to animals of the world and highlighted the importance of World Animal Day. During the talk, it as agreed that all veterinarians of Pakistan will not include put meat in their menu on World Animal Day and and will never use any kind of product made from an animal. Those attending also decided to use World Animal Day to encourage people to become vegetarian. After the talk, the 500 participants enjoyed a meat less meal and all the animals received special treats. Dr Aslam Jalali, Research Officer, Poultry Production and Research, Government of Sindh, Karachi.

Location: PAKISTAN - Peshawar
Event: Animal Welfare Awareness Event
Hosted by: Agricultural University Peshawar

World Animal Day was celebrated at the Faculty of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences in Peshawar. The Day was inaugurated jointly by Prof Dr M Afzal, Director Teaching and Prof Dr Ghulam Habib, Dean FAHVS. The DVM students displayed various posters reflecting the importance of dairy, game and companion animals and prevention of cruelty to animals.

Prof Dr M Subhan Qureshi and Dr Shahid Zaman delivered lectures on zoonotic, environment and poverty alleviation aspects of the livestock sector. A team of judges evaluated the posters prepared by the students and identified the competitors for first, second and third positions. Mr Irfan Khattak, Mr Noor Badshah and Ms Mehwish Malik were declared as first, second and third. A poem was presented by Mr Farhad highlighting the lighter side of veterinary education. Hamd was presented by Ms Faiza and Tilawati Kalami Pak by Mr Fazli Rabbni. Jokes were presented by M Ishfaq. Vote of thanks was presented by Mr Wajid. Special trophies were awarded to the position holders and certificates to the participating students and organizers of the competition.

The Dean expressed his appreciation to the students for arranging the event and the discipline and hard work by the students in academics as well as extra-curricular activities. He advised them to keep up the hard work so that they may maintain their recognition among the other faculties of the country. The Director of Teaching expressed his appreciation of the students endeavors and offered his help with administrative or academic issues.

Location: PHILIPPINES
Event: Candle-lighting ceremony
Hosted by: Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS)

Unfortunately, most of our World Animal Day events had to be postponed due to the country being badly hit by Typhoon Ketsana. PAWS volunteers spent the week of WAD rescuing animals stranded on rooftops (most dogs swam to rooftops when floodwaters rose at the height of the typhoon). While we cancelled the pet blessings to focus on the rescues, we managed to hold a candle-lighting ceremony in celebration of WAD. Philippine World Animal Day Ambassador, Anna Cabrera, led a candle-lighting ceremony at the Eastwood Mall in celebration of World Animal Day. 10 animal rights organizations, Animal Kingdom Foundation, Bureau of Animal Industry (Animal Welfare Division), Compassion & Responsibility for Animals (CARA), Earth Island Institute, Feathered Friends Foundation, Network for Animals, Palawan Animal Welfare Association, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF-Philippines), were united in voicing their message to stop animal cruelty. Please announce that our wish list and donation details may be found on our website at www.paws.org.ph. Some of the rescue photographs will be included in the image gallery (link at bottom of page). Anna Hashim-Cabrera.

Location: SYRIA - Damascus
Event: "Animals working for us"
Hosted by: SPANA - Syria

The non-forgettable day of the celebration of World Animal Day
As SPANA-Syria participated in the regional celebration of the World Animal Day in Amman- Jordan on the 4th of October 2009, we organised a big World Animal Day celebration in Damascus on the evening of the 1st of October, under the motto of “Animals working for us". Camels, cows and calves, donkeys, horses, sheep, goats, chickens, turkeys, geese, ducks and tortoises celebrated with hundreds of children and their families in front of the culture center of Kafasose in Damascus, the oldest inhabited capital of the world. The honorable patron of SPANA-Syria, Mrs Manal AlAssad opened the exhibition of drawings entered into the competition organised by the Ministry of Culture Directorate of Childhood Culture. 30 winners were awarded for their drawings on animals working for us. The famous artist Logain Alaseel judged the competition and announced the winners. 3 songs were prepared especially for this event, 'The dog our friend' and 'Environmental garden' written by poet Burhan AlShalil and played by famous musician Mrs Elham Aboulsoud and a little girl Lin Koaja. The third song was 'The donkey of my grandfather' played by the musician Fadi Atia. 50 girls and boys from the dancing group 'Ajial AlMustakbal' (which means future generation) presented a fantastic show from all parts of the world describing the relationship between art, music, humans and animals. Two artists presented a pantomime theatre to introduce the Syrian animal of the year 2009, the Syrian Ostrich ( Strutheo camelus syriacus) which has been extinct since 1960. In commemoration of World Animal Day, SPANA-Syria released some new publications in support of the education program run by Mrs Diana Hulme, Director of Education at SPANA HQ in London. These publications include the winning pictures from World Animal Day 2008 and a booklet on the development of SPANA in Syria over the last 15 years. We used this occasion to officially recognise the contributions to animal welfare in Syria made by: 38 famous journalists, musicians, official authorities including Prof Ali Saad, Minister of Education, Dr Riad Nasan Aga Minister of Culture, Mayors of the provinces of Quneitera, Raqqa and Tartus, Mrs Malak Yasin Director of Childhood Culture, writers and animal advocates. In addition, we recognised the 15 years of good service to SPANA by Mr. Jihad Abou Touk and Abdulaziz Duhne, veterinary assistants. The event was attended by member societies of WSPA in the Middle East who where attending a regional workshop in Damascus. Mr Trevor Wheeler, WSPA Director Middle East, was presented with the signatures of 650 animals lovers who support the global campaign supporting the development of a Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare. Many interactive possibilities were available for all children during the celebration and the media were covering this event in the Syrian satellite and Addunia TV channels and daily national and local newspapers. Dr Darem Tabbaa, Director of SPANA-Syria and Syrian Ambassador of World Animal Day.

IMAGE GALLERY
Selected additional images of events that took place in Asia in 2009