World Animal Day is commemorated globally on the 4th of October every year.
It is regarded as the Feast Day of Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of ecology and essentially seeks to raise awareness about the importance of protection and welfare of animals while improving their status.
The aim is to recognise animals as sentient beings and make the world a safer place for them. World Animal Day has over 90 Ambassadors from 70 countries.
A host of events are planned across the world to celebrate the day, first organised in 1925 in Germany. From book launches to discussions and meditation for animals, events spanning through the day are planned by UK-based Naturewatch foundation. The day brings together advocators of animal rights, striving to make the world a better place and facilitate coexistence between humans and the animal kingdom.