Youth Incorporated Magazine

We humans have a voice that allows us to speak out against societal wrongdoings, but do animals have one? The answer is NO, thus as humans, we must speak up for them and condemn the cruelty that these creatures endure in civilization. Acknowledging their rights and fighting for their freedom might reveal a lot about our society. 

Animal Welfare Day is observed on October 4th of each year. It is a day set aside to raise awareness about the value of treating animals with love and respect. Many regions around the world celebrate it differently; some communities or organizations that support animal rights may hold events, workshops, or campaigns to be a voice for these animals through rescue efforts, proper nourishment and care, or even host events where you can get your furry animals to help with your work or meet other furry friends!

History Of Animal Welfare Day 2024:

World Animal Welfare Day began on 24th March in the year 1925 in Germany. This day was founded by Heinrich Zimmermann who organized the first celebration in Berlin. Around 5000 people attended this celebration at the Sports Palace. This day was declared to be celebrated every year on 4th October by Heinrich in term with the feast of St. Francis Of Assisi also known as the patron saint of animals. It is often said that when St. Francis preached animals gathered around him.

Why is it important to prioritize Animal Welfare?

As humans it’s our duty to give importance to Animal Welfare Organizations the same way we support other causes. This helps in fostering healthy ecosystems and supports biodiversity which benefits all living organisms. Animals even though they do not have a voice yet they speak more than words through their action that lie in being a good companion to you, providing emotional support and protecting us. Raising awareness about animal welfare issues—such as factory farming and habitat destruction—educates the public, leading to more informed choices and advocacy for humane practices. Thus raising our voices to help strengthen legal and ethical laws for protecting animals from abuse, from being caged and teated like a source of entertainment in zoos and circuses is important. Furthermore, acknowledging the cultural and spiritual significance of animal build respect and protection for various species, enriching our understanding of their role in human history. For eg: The Cow is considered a significant blessing in India and they worship them in various parts of the world.

Animal Welfare Day Theme for 2024:

The Animal Welfare Day theme for 2024 is “THE WORLD IS THEIR HOME TOO”. This sends out a strong message to all that the world is a place for all to live in, not jut for humans and to openly embrace animals into their home.

Events held in the past on World Animal Welfare Day include:

• A World Animal Day mass, held in Bolivia.
  
• Zoo enrichment activities in Alexandria, Egypt.
  
• Protests against the mistreatment of camels at a market in Cairo.
  
• A service of remembrance for a famous tiger in the United States.
  
• Action to save sea animals by ending plastic pollution in Bangladesh

5 ways you can involve yourself in lending a helping hand towards Animal Welfare:

Sure! Here’s an expanded look at each point on how you can contribute to animal welfare:

1. Volunteer

Volunteering is one of the most impactful ways to support animal welfare. Many animal shelters, rescue organizations, and sanctuaries rely heavily on volunteers to help with daily operations. Tasks can include walking dogs, socializing cats, cleaning habitats, assisting with adoptions, and even helping with administrative duties. Volunteering not only provides immediate support to these organizations but also helps you gain firsthand experience in animal care and advocacy.

2. Educate Yourself

Knowledge is power. Take the time to educate yourself about animal welfare issues, including topics like responsible pet ownership, the impact of puppy mills, the importance of spaying/neutering, and the challenges faced by wildlife. Attend workshops, read books, or follow reputable animal welfare organizations online. By becoming informed, you can share this knowledge with others, helping to create a more compassionate community for animals.

3. Advocate Your Voice on Social Platforms

Social media is a powerful tool for raising awareness. Use your platforms to share information about animal welfare issues, promote adoption, and advocate for legislation that protects animals. Highlight stories from local shelters or rescue organizations, and use hashtags to join larger conversations. By amplifying your voice online, you can reach a wider audience and inspire others to get involved.

4. Fundraising

Organizing or participating in fundraising events can significantly boost the resources available to animal welfare organizations. Consider hosting a bake sale, charity run, or pet wash event. You can also participate in online fundraising campaigns or crowdfunding platforms to support specific initiatives, like shelter renovations or medical care for rescued animals. Every dollar raised can help improve the lives of animals in need.

5. Donate to Animal Shelters

Financial contributions are crucial for the operation of animal shelters and rescue organizations. If you’re unable to volunteer your time, consider making a monetary donation or donating supplies like food, toys, blankets, or grooming products. Many organizations have wish lists available on their websites. Regular donations, whether one-time or monthly, can provide stability and help shelters plan for their ongoing needs.

Top 10 Animal Welfare Institutes in India:

1. Peta India- Peta India is a a welfare launched in January 2000. They are one of the biggest animal organizations that make people aware that animals are not meant to experiment with, eat, wear or for the use of entertainment. PETA India’s investigations, research, animal rescues, celebrity involvement, and national media coverage has made them help animals lives.

2. People for Animals- People for Animals is one of India’s largest non- governmental animal welfare organizations, founded by the well-known actress and activist Maneka Gandhi. They focus on rescue, rehabilitation and advocacy for animals rights. They have been in this industry for more than 30 years with around 5 lakh+ members and a nationwide network of 26 hospitals, 165 units and 60 mobile units.

3. Animal Aid Unlimited- Animal Aid Unlimited is based in Udaipur, Rajasthan. They are dedicated to rescue and rehabilitate injured, homeless and sick street animals in the city. They had provided around 15,000 animals every year medical care, shelter, and love, and their team is known for its rapid response to emergency situations. The organization also runs awareness campaigns and tours everyday from 2:30PM and 3:30PM to share the stories of the animals that they have rescued and to educate the public on responsible pet ownership.

4. Blue Cross Of India- Founded in 1964, Blue Cross of India is one of the oldest animal welfare organizations in India. Based in Chennai, it is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and welfare of animals. They run a shelter for abandoned and injured animals, offer veterinary services, and engage in community outreach programs to promote humane treatment of animals. They also work on initiatives to control the stray dog population through sterilization.

5. Vantara: Vantara is an organization based in Gujarat focused on the welfare of animals, especially stray and abandoned ones. They work towards providing shelter, food, and medical care to animals in need. Additionally, Vantara emphasizes community education on responsible pet ownership and the importance of treating animals with compassion.

6. Sanjay Gandhi Animal Care Centre- The Sanjay Gandhi Animal Care Centre is committed to the rescue and rehabilitation of injured, sick, and stray animals. They provide medical treatment, a safe shelter, and adoption services. The center also conducts awareness programs to promote animal rights and responsible pet ownership among the public.

7. Help In Suffering- Help In Suffering (HIS) is based in Jaipur and is focused on alleviating the suffering of animals through rescue, rehabilitation, and education. They operate a sanctuary for stray and injured animals, provide veterinary care, and work on sterilization programs. HIS also conducts outreach programs to educate the community about animal welfare issues.

8. RESQ Charitable Trust- Located in Pune, RESQ Charitable Trust is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating stray and injured animals. They provide a wide range of services, including veterinary care, shelter, and community education. RESQ also focuses on the adoption of rescued animals and promotes responsible pet ownership through various initiatives.

9. All India Animal Welfare- All India Animal Welfare (AIAW) is an organization focused on promoting the rights and welfare of animals across the country. They engage in rescue operations, awareness campaigns, and legislative advocacy to protect animals. AIAW works collaboratively with local shelters and communities to ensure better treatment and care for animals in need.

10. Stray Relief And Animal Welfare- Stray Relief and Animal Welfare is dedicated to the welfare of stray animals, providing them with food, medical care, and shelter. The organization also works to raise awareness about the importance of sterilization and vaccination in controlling stray populations. They often collaborate with local communities to create a more compassionate environment for animals.

Every animal deserves a voice, and it is our duty to be their advocates. By prioritizing animal welfare, we contribute to a more just and compassionate world, ensuring that all creatures can live healthy, fulfilling lives. Let’s work together to raise awareness and take action for those who cannot speak for themselves.