International Animal Rights Day

International Animal Rights Day is coming up on December 10^th. If you’re reading this, then it’s probably safe to say that, like us, you love and care for animals, and want to help promote better animal welfare and protections. That sentiment is definitely at the heart of this occasion. A local Washington DC vet offers some insight as to this special day in this article.

When Did Animal Rights Day Begin?

International Animal Rights Day was started back in 1998 by the animal rights group Uncaged. They chose the day specifically because it is also Human Rights Day. (Their intent was to emphasize the link between human and animal rights issues.) However, the fight for animal rights goes back much further than that. Early animal rights activists first took up the cause back in the 18^th century. The Society For The Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals was formed in the middle of the century. By the early 1900’s, the issue had gathered enough support to see the passage of the first anti-animal cruelty bills.

Today’s Struggle

One topic that is integral to many modern animal rights campaigns is that of animal sentience. Unfortunately, certain industries have long operated using practices that do not factor in much empathy for our furred and feathered friends. Enacting laws that recognize animals as living beings with feelings and emotions can be a huge game changer, especially when it comes to animal husbandry and care. Some countries have made huge strides in creating safer, more comfortable conditions for animals. For instance, in 2022, the UK passed The Animal Welfare (Sentience) Act. This important law not only recognizes animals as sentient beings, but also requires that this understanding be taken into consideration with any new laws that are being developed. Several other countries, such as Spain, Sweden, and Peru, have also enacted similar laws. Here in the U.S., we don’t have those national protections, but we are making progress: 46 states have passed laws that make at least some acts of animal cruelty felonies.

How To Help

There are many ways to help support this cause, such as by donating to charities, volunteering, and even just spreading awareness about animal rights and the organizations striving to improve them. Many animal welfare organizations have Amazon wish lists, which is an easy way to help them out. Every little bit matters!

Season’s Greetings! Please contact us, your local Washington DC pet hospital, for all of your pet’s care needs. We’re here to help!