World Animal Day no matter your religion

World Animal Day was famously established by St Francis of Assisi, a Catholic Saint. But World Animal Day is marked around the world by animal lovers of all religions, creeds, and nationalities. The anniversary is celebrated on October 4th as it is the feast day of St Francis, who is the patron saint of animals.

The purpose of the day is to create awareness and spread the importance of animal welfare and protection around the world. The theme for 2025 is "Save Animals, Save the Planet". In many countries you will find events and awareness-raising activities related to animal welfare take place on this day.

In Japan, I don't know what events are taking place in 2025, but there have been events in the past. For example, in 2023 there was a "Prayer for Peace for Animals" event in Yokohama. In 2020 Asahi Shinbun set up a "Zoo Lover Project" where you could donate money online to feed the zoo animals. The #animal_selfie campaign was pretty successful in 2018. 

Even without an event, World Animal Day is a day to consider the future of the animals of our planet, especially those that are endangered. If you are in the position to do so, you could also donate o the activities of animal protection organizations. And if you are lucky enough to have some pets, spend some quality time with them today in gratitude of them on World Animal Day.