On October 4, the world celebrates an important international holiday – World Animal Day. Its purpose is to draw society’s attention to the rights of animals and the conditions of their keeping.

This day was organized for the first time on March 24, 1925 in Berlin by Heinrich Zimmermann, a well-known writer and animal advocate. After 4 years, the celebration was scheduled for October 4. Zimmermann was engaged in this matter and succeeded – after 2 years in Florence at the international congress of like-minded people from the defense movement, this holiday was approved. The date was chosen in honor of Francis of Assisi, a Catholic priest, patron of animals, who died on October 4.

Threats to the life of animals are diverse: every day people destroy their habitats, abuse natural resources, engage in poaching and illegal trade, which leads to the disappearance of entire species.

• According to statistics, three animal populations disappear on the planet in one hour, more than 75 species of animals and plants disappear in a day.

This day is an opportunity for people to realize their responsibility towards animals, an opportunity to once again call on society to protect fauna.