Each year on 4 October, people around the world come together for World Animal Day, a global movement dedicated to raising the status of animals and improving animal welfare. The idea was originated by German writer and publisher Heinrich Zimmermann, who organised the first World Animal Day celebration on 24 March 1925, attended by more than 5,000 people. World Animal Day is now observed on 4 October, the feast day of St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals.
The official World Animal Day theme for 2026 is “See the World Through Their Eyes”. It asks us to shift our perspective and consider how human choices affect animals. For AWAMO, that message has particular meaning. When we consider the world from the perspective of an animal serving in conflict, policing, search and rescue, assistance or support roles, we are reminded that their experiences, welfare and legacy matter too.
Today we celebrate the courage of service animals and the importance of protecting animals everywhere.
For the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation, World Animal Day provides an opportunity to remember the many animals who have served beside people in extraordinary circumstances. Dogs, horses, pigeons, donkeys, camels and other animals have played roles in conflict, communications, transport, detection, policing, search and rescue, assistance and support. Their contribution is part of our shared history, and their stories deserve to be preserved.
Their contributions were as varied as the animals themselves. Horses carried riders, equipment and supplies over difficult terrain. Dogs have worked in patrol, detection, search, rescue and support roles. Messenger pigeons carried vital communications. Donkeys and camels transported people and equipment through harsh environments. Across generations, animals have worked beside people with courage, resilience and loyalty.
Remembering these animals is not only about looking back. Their stories help us understand the relationship between people and animals, the responsibilities that come with asking animals to serve, and the importance of protecting their welfare during service, in retirement and beyond.
World Animal Day reminds us that the welfare of animals, whether in conflict zones or communities, is a shared responsibility. That responsibility sits naturally beside AWAMO’s remembrance and education work. Honouring animals who served means recognising what they gave, preserving their stories and encouraging a culture that values the welfare of animals everywhere.
Remember. Educate. Protect.
Every animal matters. Their service matters. Their welfare matters too.
