4 Things You Can Do On World Animal Day Every October

Animals, even if we literally smooch them on their faces, never really get enough love because they truly deserve everything and anything in the world (as long as they don't have the urge to tear us apart or eat us whole, that is).

Well, they do have a day of their own when we can celebrate all their awesomeness and adorableness; it's called, of course, World Animal Day, also known as Animal Lovers Day.

This day is celebrated every October 4, and it's a movement started to improve the welfare of these animals all around the world, whether in households, zoos, animal shelters, or veterinary clinics. This day is celebrated to advocate for the better treatment of animals and to make the world an enjoyable, livable place where they won't be threatened with harm because of humans.

This celebration was established globally back in 1931 but was first celebrated around March 1925. The day was specifically selected to honor the feast of Francis of Assisi, who is the patron saint of animals.

The first World Animal Day was celebrated by a cynologist named Heinrich Zimmermann, who was also an animal protection activist. Now, in present times, more and more people are celebrating this day annually, finding ways to participate in order to make this world a better place for animals to coexist with us comfortably and peacefully.

That being said, here are some things you can do whenever World Animal Day approaches:

1. Visit animals at the local zoos/national parks

Of course, what better way to celebrate World Animal Day than by visiting the residents at your local zoo?

This is also a great outdoor activity, perfect for families with kids or couples who want to go on a date on this day. You'll bring home more than what you pay for because you'll learn a lot about the animals there, enriching your knowledge about their lifestyles, and you'll also be reminded to protect them by protecting the environment.

Let's not forget that we aren't the only species in this world; we share our home with them, too!

San Francisco Chronicle

2. Spend time with your pets

Why go to a zoo to appreciate animals when you have an adorable one at home? If you've been busy lately, why not take some time to relax and chill with your pet dog or cat for the day or even just for a few hours?

Take them out for a walk, whether in the park or at the beach, or treat them to a salon trip (although they may hate that). If you're on a budget, simply play with them at home, use your resources, and have some fun!

Pinterest

3. Binge-watch your favorite animal movies

You won't have to think long and hard about what to watch because there are numerous animal movies for you to choose from. Whether they are animated or live-action, you're bound to stumble upon something that's worth watching.

You might either laugh or cry, but either way, you'll get to learn and watch something relatable and meaningful, even if the characters are animals!

Disney

4. Volunteer at the animal shelters

If you have been thinking of adopting an animal, then this is the perfect time for you to visit the nearest animal shelter. It would mean a lot to them if you could just drop by!

SMile

Many people often forget just how animals are struggling to live in this world, too. We should all learn to take a step back and appreciate these living creatures because, without them, we honestly wouldn't be able to survive, either!

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