The 2017 World Animal Day (WAD) is observed on which date?

The correct answer is October 4.
World Animal Day (WAD) is an international day of action for animal rights and welfare. It is celebrated annually on October 4, regardless of the year. Therefore, the 2017 observance also took place on October 4.

Why October 4?

The date was specifically chosen because it is the feast day of Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment. The mission of this day is to raise the status of animals in order to improve welfare standards around the globe.

History and Origin:

• 1925: The first World Animal Day was organized by Heinrich Zimmermann, a German writer and publisher of the magazine Mensch und Hund (Man and Dog).


• 1931: At a congress of the International Animal Protection Organization in Florence, Italy, his proposal to make October 4 World Animal Day was officially accepted.

How It is Observed:

World Animal Day is a global event that unites the animal welfare movement. Organizations, community groups, and individuals use the day to:

• Raise Funds: Supporting local animal shelters and wildlife conservation projects.


• Awareness Campaigns: Promoting the humane treatment of farm animals and pets.


• Policy Advocacy: Encouraging governments to enact stronger animal protection laws.

Comparison of the Options:

• October 3: No major international environmental day.


• October 4: World Animal Day.


• October 5: World Teachers' Day (as discussed in the previous question).


• October 6: Often associated with World Smile Day (though that date changes as it falls on the first Friday of October).