World Animal Day (WAD) is annually observed across the globe on 4th October to emphasize the significance of animals and raise awareness about their welfare to maintain ecological balance.
- This day marks the importance of educating people about various animal rights, endangered species, and the need for conservation efforts.
Note: Since 2003, the United Kingdom(UK)-based Naturewatch Foundation, animal welfare charity, has been coordinating the observance of World Animal Day.
Theme:
i.The theme for World Animal Day 2024 is “The world is their home too”.
ii.The 2024 theme highglights the idea that animals are just as much a part of our ecosystem as humans do and they deserve to live in a safe and thriving environment.
Background:
i.The World Animal Day was proposed byCynologist and animal protection advocate Heinrich Zimmerman to promote animal welfare.
ii.The first World Animal Day was organised by Zimmerman on 24th March 1925, at the Sports Palace in Berlin, Germany.
iii.In 1931, Zimmermann’s proposal to officially designate 4th October of every year as World Animal Day was accepted and enacted as a resolution during the International Animal Protection Congress held in Florence, Italy.
Why October 4?
October 4 marks the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals.
Significance:
i.Animals are important in maintaining ecological processes such as nutrient cycling, decomposition, and the nitrogen cycle.
iii.The day is also known as Animal Lovers Day, encouraging compassion, care, and protection for animals by supporting individuals and organizations that advocate for animal welfare and their rights.
