New Delhi: International Homeless Animals Day is observed every third Saturday in August, which falls on August 17 this year. Various events mark the day, and more participation is gained each year. It was established by the International Society for Animal Rights to raise awareness about pet overpopulation, and the organisation has made significant strides in saving the lives of countless animals. Let’s delve deep into the importance of the day.
International Homeless Animals Day 2024: Why is the day important globally?
Each day, countless homeless animals worldwide struggle to find shelter, sustenance, and affection. However, there is hope. Shelters, rescues, and organisations work tirelessly, providing these animals with care, attention, and the chance to find loving homes.
International Homeless Animals Day was established to draw attention to the plight of these animals. Observed on the third Saturday of August each year, the day serves as an opportunity to raise awareness, compassion, and support for homeless animals worldwide.
From the earliest days of human civilisation, our lives and homes have been enriched by the presence of dogs, cats and other pets. However, not all animals are fortunate enough to experience the same warmth and care. Throughout history, dogs and cats have been loyal companions to humans, but their treatment hasn’t always been kind.
It’s important to understand the historical context of animal protection laws. They didn’t exist until the 1870s, when society began recognising the vulnerability of animals and the need to ensure their well-being. In the 20th century, they brought about stricter regulations against animal cruelty, leading to legal repercussions for those who harmed animals. This era also saw the implementation of stringent guidelines for rescue organisations and animal shelters to ensure the proper treatment of the animals in their care.
The fight for animal rights, led by compassionate organisations, rescues, and shelters, aimed to address the growing population of homeless animals. The 1990s marked a significant nationwide push for spaying and neutering to control the homeless animal population, drawing attention to the issue on a global scale.
In 1992, the International Society for Animal Rights established International Homeless Animals Day, advocating for responsible pet ownership through spaying and neutering and promoting animal adoption events to raise awareness and support for needy animals.
How can we save the homeless animals?
Volunteering
You can support homeless animals by volunteering at an animal shelter or rescue. This will help the shelter and provide you with valuable experience in caring for animals, which can be beneficial if you have a pet-sitting business.
Spay or neuter
Offering affordable spay and neuter services can help reduce the number of homeless pets. This is crucial as millions of pets are euthanised each year due to overpopulation.
Donate to a local shelter
Shelters rely on their local communities for financial support, as caring for homeless animals quickly depletes their resources. You can contribute by donating funds, hosting a funding drive, or organising events to raise money for local animals.
Foster
You can provide temporary homes for stray animals until they are adopted. Fostering helps the individual animal and allows shelters to take in other needy animals.
Adopt
Consider giving a loving home to a stray animal by adopting from a shelter. This provides a second chance for the animal and frees up space for other homeless pets.
Educate others
Educate people about adoption and dispel any misconceptions they may have. By guiding others towards adoption instead of purchasing from a breeder, you can help reduce the number of homeless animals.
Every year on August 17, International Homeless Animals Day is observed. While the day began in the US, it is now slowly growing across the world. People come together and try to save the homeless animals and spread some love. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
