A DAY FOR ANIMAL LOVERS WORLDWIDE
#Celebrate
World Animal Day exists to raise the status of animals and improve welfare standards around the globe.
It’s a day of celebration for animal lovers like you and me everywhere.
On October 4, it’s our chance to mobilise into a global force, to take action against animal cruelty, neglect and unfair treatment and make the world a better place for all animals.
Why October 4?
Well, it’s the feast day of St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals, so what could be more fitting?
Our Mission
The first step towards change is awareness. Through greater awareness, we know we can:
Improve standards of animal wellbeing throughout the world – and what an achievement that will be!
Who is World Animal Day for?
It’s a day for all animal lovers near and far. Through organised events, big and small, we raise awareness of how animals are treated globally. We rally together organisations, children’s groups, schools, clubs, companies, communities and individuals to show we care deeply about animals.
So whether you’re a grandparent, parent, teenager or toddler, a bird watcher, dog-lover or equestrian, World Animal Day is for all animals and those who love them.
With your help, participation in World Animal Day will continue to grow until it connects animal advocates in all corners of the world.
Will you join us this year?
World Animal Day – Through the years
The idea for World Animal Day was originated by Heinrich Zimmermann, a writer and publisher of the German magazine Mensch und Hund (Man and Dog). He organised the first World Animal Day celebration on 24 March 1925 and over 5,000 people attended the event!
Since then, thousands of passionate animal advocates have taken part in a World Animal Day celebration. Today, there are over 90 Ambassadors who help to raise awareness in over 70 countries around the globe.
Read more about Heinrich Zimmermann and the beginnings of World Animal Day.
In 2003, the UK-based animal welfare charity, Naturewatch Foundation, launched the World Animal Day website to help the event reach many more people. In 2007, they launched the Ambassador Programme to carry the message far and wide.
Every year, participation in World Animal Day grows, with a huge variety of inspiring events being held in an increasing number of countries.
This year, you could be a part of it. Will you join us?
