October 4th - World Animal Day

Hello everyone, it’s me Creamsicle! Did you know that October 4th is World Animal Day?

World Animal Day is celebrated each year on October 4th. It started in Florence, Italy in 1931. On this day, animal life in all its forms is celebrated, and special events are planned on locations all over the globe. October 4th was originally chosen for World Animal Day because it is the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals. Numerous churches throughout the world observe the Sunday closest to October 4th with a Blessing for the Animals.

However, World Animal Day has now gone beyond being a religious celebration and is today observed by animal-lovers of all beliefs, nationalities and backgrounds. While many countries still hold animal blessings, this day is now recognized in many other ways as well, all over the world. Animal rescue shelters hold fundraising events, wildlife groups organize information displays, schools undertake animal-related project work and individuals and groups of friends or co-workers donate to animal charities or pledge to sponsor a shelter animal.

The Mission Statement of World Animal Day 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 ways in which animals enrich our lives

There are many ways you can celebrate World Animal Day. Volunteering for your local animal welfare organization is a wonderful way to give back. Donating to your favorite animal charity is also a wonderful way to help animals in need. But the best way you can recognize this important occasion is by being kind to animals of all kinds, both domestic and wild animals. Be kind and compassionate to all critters. If you have a furry friend of your own, take a bit of extra time to spend with your buddy and let them know that you love them on World Animal Day, and all year long.

By the way...the photos in this post were taken by the Sanctuary founders. These are of Tammy the deer dropping by to visit the cats. Isn't it amazing how they have become friends!

Purrs,

Creamsicle