Celebrate World Animal Day

World Animal Day is celebrated right around the globe on October 4 each year. This year’s theme is rather perfect (or should we say pawfect) for Assistance Dogs Australia “See the World through their Eyes” which is, of course, exactly what we ask of our dogs every day.

The very first World Animal Day was held in Germany in 1925. It was said to be inspired by the Italian Catholic patron Saint of Animals, St Francis of Assisi, who famously viewed all living things (animals, plants, minerals) as equal brothers and sisters rather than the popular belief of his 12th Century time which viewed animals as lesser beings. It was often said that when Saint Francis preached, animals would gather around him.

To honour the day, many Catholic churches around Australia will hold “Blessing of the Animals” services. Even the NSW Police Mounties are known to attend! A quick search online will offer you the best personalised results to locate a service in your area. In Sydney, we found services at churches in Hunters Hill, Leichhardt, Enmore, Parramatta and Eastwood – just to name a few.

But if religious-based experiences aren’t for you, the World Animal Day website suggests using the day to shine a light on animal conservation and animal rights in a manner that suits you best.

As an ADA supporter, why not celebrate the day by raising awareness about our amazing dogs? You could educate your friends and family about the life-changing ways our pups support people in our community by having a chat over the back fence or creating an interesting Facebook post. Be sure to tag us in the post so we can join in the conversation too (https://www.facebook.com/assistancedogsaustralia).

Or perhaps consider volunteering your time with us. As a volunteer, you play an incredibly important role in the journey of a future Assistance Dog. Whether you’re caring for a puppy full-time, lending a hand for a short-term stay, or providing weekend support, every moment you spend with them helps build their confidence and prepares them for the world around them.

If puppy fostering isn’t for you, organise a local community or school fundraising event. This provides you with the opportunity to talk about what you love (puppies) and helps to place an Assistance Dog with people with disability . If you need some tips to get the party started, please visit our helpful “Donate in Celebration” page on our website. Here you will find loads of advice, tips and links to help create that extra special event.

Another idea might be to curl up with a cuppa to enjoy a good book (we love audio versions too) about some amazing service dogs. Two of our favourite books are “Hedwig for the win” by Fiona Kuiboer and “Wonder Dogs” by Hawaiian Assistance Dog Trainer, Mauree Maurer.

And finally, you could celebrate World Animal Day on October 4th by simply making a donation to Assistance Dogs Australia. Every cent counts towards changing lives.

Whatever you choose, every little bit helps, and we are very grateful. We guarantee you’ll be met with plenty of pawsitive vibes (and perhaps a few tail wags) from everyone at ADA!