World Animal Day is an international day of animal rights. It is held annually on 4th October, on the feast day of St Francis of Assisi.
On this day, some churches have the blessing of the animals. I don't have any experience with this, but if the Vicar of Dibley is anything to go by, it's a bit chaotic.
On a more serious note, it is good to know that (even in 13th century Italy) someone was sticking up for the animals. Animals need our help and protection, whether they be family pets, farm animals, zoo animals, or animals living in the great-out-doors.
Organizations such as SPCA, Cats Protection League, Department of Conservation, Forest and Bird and our own Christchurch City Council all champion the right for animals to have a good life.
For those who want more, we have a selection of books on animal rights. If you are a pet owner, check out our books on pet care. If your interest is wild animals, our collection of books on wildlife conservation will be of interest.
To get involved with other animal lovers, search for the specific animal you are interested in in our CINCH directory.
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