International Animal Rights Day

December 10th is designated as International Animal Rights Day. Animal rights advocates from around the world observe this day by taking a stand for the respect and fair treatment that animals deserve. 

Remarkably, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights observance falls on December 10th as well, which is not a coincidence at all. As of 1998, animal activists required that the UN General Assembly expand the Declaration so it included animals on the grounds that sentient creatures in all forms have the right to not suffer pain and be killed by humans.

If you’re an advocate for animals, here’s a little background about this day along with helpful ways you can protect our furry and not-so furry friends.

Uncaged, The Founders of International Human Rights Day



Uncaged is the animal rights association responsible for first creating Animal Rights Day in 1998. The main goal of this organization was to highlight all forms of violence against animals. Members claimed that since animals can’t lobby, protest, or vote for themselves, these responsibilities fall on humans to carry out. 

Headquartered in Sheffield, England, Uncaged intentionally chose December 10th as International Animal Rights Day to make it coincide with Human Rights Day. Likewise, today’s advocates view animals as living creatures that merit the same inalienable rights as humans. 

Celebrations

On December 10th, animal rights advocates across the globe hold candlelight vigils in observance of this day. They do this to draw attention to the cause and also to get the word out to friends, family, and our communities, asking them to be the voice for animals. Another organization called the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals or PETA, also encourages individuals to consider adopting a vegan lifestyle and to not eat animals on this day. 

What You Can Do to Help

Most everyone understands that animals feel pain, and many also believe that animals perceive feelings and express emotion. These abilities, by themselves, entitle animals to certain basic rights. Help carry the torch by doing what you can to protect animal rights.

Here are a few ways you can do this:

• Show your children how to be kind to animals
• Help other pet owners to see their animals as companions rather than as property
• Share this on social media
• Refuse to support industries that use animals for entertainment and sport, such as circuses and horse racing
• Stop buying products that are developed using animal experimentation

Want to know how you can do more for International Animal Rights Day? Contact us today! And have a Happy Holiday Season!