Today Is World Animal Day

Animals make up a large part of the spiritual life for those of us who choose to heed their messages.

The World Animal Day website states this objective: A special opportunity for anyone who loves animals to acknowledge the diverse roles that they play in our lives.

The mission statement for World Animal Day reads:

To celebrate animal life in all its forms

To celebrate humankind's relationship with the animal kingdom

To acknowledge the diverse roles that animals play in our lives--from being our companions, supporting and helping us, to bringing a sense of wonder into our lives

To acknowledge and be thankful for the way in which animals enrich our lives

The website explains:

World Animal Day was started in 1931 at a convention of ecologists in Florence as a way of highlighting the plight of endangered species. Since then it has grown to encompass all kinds of animal life and is widely celebrated in countries throughout the world.

October 4 was chosen as World Animal Day as it is the Feast Day of St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals.

It is intended as a day of celebration for anyone in the world who cares about animals. It is not restricted to any one nationality, creed, religion, political belief or ideology.

Launched in the UK on 4 October 2003, organizations, groups, animal shelters, places of worship, schools, clubs and individuals participated in what was to become an annual event and, quite simply, helped make history!

Since the official World Animal Day website was launched in 2003, the number of World Animal Day events taking place throughout the world has increased year upon year and with your help we can ensure the trend continues.

To learn more, go to World Animal Day.

For spiritual nourishment, visit Dr. Susan Corso's website and blog, Seeds for Sanctuary. Follow her on Twitter @PeaceCorso and Friend her on Facebook.