World Animal Day is an international day of action for animal rights and welfare. It's celebrated annually on October 4th, the feast day of Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals.

What is the mission of World Animal Day?

According to the organisation's official website, the aim of the day is:

To raise the status of animals in order to improve welfare standards around the globe. Building the celebration of World Animal Day unites the animal welfare movement, mobilising it into a global force to make the world a better place for all animals.  It's celebrated in different ways in every country, irrespective of nationality, religion, faith or political ideology.  Through increased awareness and education we can create a world where animals are always recognised as sentient beings and full regard is always paid to their welfare.

What's happening globally to mark the day?

Events of all descriptions are happening around the world, from a food donation campaign in Serbia to a hermit crab adoption event in Jacksonville USA!

Here in Ireland, the ISPCA is doing its bit to mark World Animal Week, beginning today. The organisation's ambassador, Rosanna Davison, has teamed up with a host of GAA stars to encourage people to do more in this country to promote animal welfare.