Animals are our Friends

October 4 is celebrated as World Animal Day.

- ABHODH ARAS

The objective of celebrating this Day is to educate people about the plight of animals and improve their welfare standards. Animal welfare standards need to be improved for all animals, be it Companion Animals including street animals, Farm Animals, Wild Animals and animals used for experimentation, work, sports, leisure and entertainment.

We see cruelties being inflicted on animals on a daily basis. A report compiled by the Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organisation (FIAPO) and All Creatures Great and Small (ACGS) showed that 4,93,910 animals were abused by humans from 2010 to 2020. These were gruesome and intentional acts of violence that led to the animal’s death or extreme harm, and these cases do not even include farm animals.

Animals deserve a life of well-being and care just like humans. Compassion towards animals is enshrined in the Indian Constitution and also in the teachings of all religions. The Five Freedoms have been the basis of animal welfare and are the globally recognised welfare standards. The Five Freedoms include:

1. Freedom from hunger or thirst by ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigour.

2. Freedom from discomfort by providing an appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area.

3. Freedom from pain, injury and disease by prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment.