November 30 - World Pet Day: history and traditions

Every year on November 30, many countries, including Russia, celebrate World Pet Day, a holiday of kindness and care dedicated to man's faithful companions. In 2024 it falls on Saturday. Read about the history and traditions of the celebration in the material of "Izvestia".

History of World Pet Day - the meaning of the holiday

The idea of creating World Pet Day belongs to animal activists. It was first expressed in 1931 in Italy from the rostrum of the International Congress of supporters of the movement in defense of nature. Thus, it was planned to draw public attention to the issues of humane treatment of the lesser brothers and to remind about the importance of responsible approach to their maintenance.

The holiday was first celebrated in Russia in 2000 on the initiative of the International Fund for Animal Welfare. Since then, it has become an important annual date in the calendar of animal protection communities, veterinarians and specialists in working with animals. This day emphasizes the fight against abuse and homelessness, as well as the need for competent pet care.

The history of humans and animals living together goes back many centuries. Domestication was one of the most important stages in the development of modern civilization. This process, which began in the Stone Age, radically changed the way of human life, allowing to move from gathering and hunting to a sedentary way of life.

Studies by archaeologists show that wolves were the first animals domesticated by humans. People began to use them for hunting, so began the evolution of these predators, which led to the emergence of the dog.

Then goats and sheep were domesticated, which were valued for their meat and wool. Cattle became a source of dairy products and later were also used as draught power. Horses, having become companions of people, provided convenience of movement and transportation of cargoes. Poultry was valued for its eggs, down and feathers.

The story of the domestication of the cat stands apart, as the circumstances of the establishment of this union are not reliably known. According to one version, the small predator people "got" in their homes to fight rodents, but there are versions that purrs themselves "chose" the man, nailed to his home, where there was always something to eat.

World Pet Day - how it is celebrated in Russia and around the world

In Russia, on November 30, thematic exhibitions, charity events and educational activities dedicated to the least of our brothers take place. Animal shelters hold open days, organize campaigns to find owners for their charges.

Also on this day in many Russian cities there are photo contests in which owners share pictures of their pets.

In many European countries, World Pet Day is accompanied by charity fairs, and all the funds collected on them are directed to support shelters. Public lectures on proper pet care, as well as festivals and pet parades are popular.

Residents of the United States on this day like to organize parties for their small pets, as well as participate in fundraising events for relief funds. Pet stores offer discounts on food and toys, and veterinary clinics organize free consultations.

Interesting facts about pets

In honor of the holiday, Izvestia collected several interesting facts about pets:

In the arsenal of the dog about 100 expressions of the muzzle, which help it to convey emotions and communicate with people. In addition, a dog's nose, like a human finger, has its own unique pattern.

In ancient Egypt, cats were revered so much that as a sign of mourning after their death, their owners shaved off their eyebrows.

Many have heard the expression "Geese saved Rome", meaning that in a critical situation, help can come from the most unexpected sources. However, this winged phrase has a quite literal meaning: in 390, poultry really prevented the burning of the ancient city. Smelling the approach of the enemy, they began to cackle and woke up the Roman soldiers.

Earlier, Izvestia reported on the history and traditions of World Animal Day.