World Animal Day is being observed today, October 4, to raise awareness about the rights, protection and welfare of animals around the world. The day is observed every year in line with the feast day of St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals.

According to the official World Animal Day website, the primary objective of the observance is to improve the welfare and living conditions of animals in every corner of the world.

The day also aims to bring together the global animal welfare movement and strengthen efforts internationally to make the world a better place for all living beings. Various countries observe the day in different ways, regardless of nationality, religion, faith or political ideology.

The observance also focuses on increasing public awareness and education to build a world where animals are recognised as sentient beings and given due attention to their welfare.