Horse Illustrated Magazine

In 1931, ecologists at a convention in Florence, Italy established World Animal Day to recognize and bring attention to endangered animal species. They selected Oct. 4 as the date for this commemoration to coincide with the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals.

Today, World Animal Day is still recognized each year, but the focus has expanded beyond endangered species to all wild and domestic animals, including horses and ponies. In recognition of the day and its ties to St. Francis of Assisi, many churches around the world provide an annual blessing of the animals on the Sunday closest to Oct. 4.

World Animal Day commemorations are celebrated by people from all countries, cultures and religions. In the U.S., the day is frequently highlighted by adoption events at animal shelters and horse rescues. The dedication to working toward the welfare of all animals is a hallmark of the day.

The mission of World Animal Day is to:

• celebrate animal life in all its forms;
• celebrate humankind’s relationship with the animal kingdom;
• 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; and
• acknowledge and be thankful for the way in which animals enrich our lives.

For more information about World Animal Day, visit WorldAnimalDay.org.uk.