The 10th of December every year is observed as International Animal Rights Day. This is a day during which animal rights advocates attempt to grab the public’s attention and persuade them to treat animals with the respect that all living beings deserve.

Just like humans, animals feel pain and loss, and that’s why it’s important for us to put ourselves in their proverbial paws. How society treats animals is a reflection of the morality of that society, and frankly, we’re not showing ourselves to be a very moral society.

Fortunately, that can change, and we can do more for our furry friends and, in the process, become the best versions of ourselves that we can be.

The History of International Animal Rights Day

This holiday was created by Uncaged in 1998. The purpose of this animal rights association in creating this day was to highlight the forms of violence that are too often used against animals.

They further state that human beings are responsible for the well-being of animals in their care and must do everything they can to protect the animals’ rights and prevent needless suffering. The date for this holiday was chosen because it’s also Human Rights Day.

Facts About Animal Rights

Since the core of this holiday is the discussion on animal rights, we thought we’d take a few moments to list some of the things that we learned while researching International Animal Rights Day. We hope that the following factoids at least encourage people to think more deeply about this subject.

• The ultimate goal of the animal rights movement is simply to put an end to the exploitative practices of people and industries toward animals.
• The concept of animal rights began thousands of years ago in religions such as Jainism, Buddhism, and Hinduism.
• Most of the time, the underlying motivation for animal cruelty legislation is 100% human interest and not the interest of the animal.
• Every circus in the U.S. that has used animals has been cited for violations under the Animal Welfare Act.

Observing International Animal Rights Day

International Animal Rights Day not only wants people to act for the day but also aims to change people’s attitudes toward animals all year long. Animals should not be treated as property but instead should be treated as companion animals.

People should also try to eliminate animal products from their diet and avoid experimenting on animals. It also calls for people to avoid abusing animals in all forms. And while people are observing this day, they should take the time to use the hashtag #InternationalAnimalRightsDay on social media.