Farm animals take quite the hit in terms of living conditions, diets, hormonal injections, etc., and this is why it is important to lend our voices to the cause this National Farm Animals Day on April 10. First celebrated in 2005, the day is meant to bring awareness to the overall rough conditions that farm animals are forced to live under. Capitalism has led to a gross increase in demand for livestock by commercial brands. To sell the most amount of meat and dairy products, animals are subjected to growth and antibody injections.
History of National Farm Animals Day
National Farm Animals Day was first commemorated in 2005 by Colleen Paige. Paige is a well-known celebrity pet lifestyle expert, an author, and an animal rescuer amongst her many other accolades and titles. While the day is not registered as an official day, it is still widely celebrated in the U.S. as the message it aims to convey resounds with many across the nation.
One of the main reasons the day was inaugurated was to shed light on the poor living conditions of farm animals. Firstly, because of commercialization and capitalism, livestock is produced and maintained in large populations. Often, this means cramped and extremely tight living spaces for the animals. All of this leads to poorer health conditions for them as diseases and infections can spread easily amongst the animals. Moreover, to market products to the masses, farm animals are also endlessly injected with antibodies.
World Day for Farmed Animals is also celebrated on October 2. The main purpose of both days remains the same — to protect farm animals in the long run by providing better living conditions for them. Going by simple logic, the farm animals’ products we consume will only be beneficial for us if the farm animals themselves are kept in great conditions. We can start to raise awareness about the day by spreading the word about it and donating to the right organizations.
National Farm Animals Day timeline
Some of the earliest records state that cattle were being farmed for the first time during 8000 B.C. in the Middle East.
The first World Day for Farmed Animals is celebrated by putting the spotlight on the plights of farm animals.
Colleen Paige, a famous celebrity pet lifestyle expert, announces April 10 as the day to be dedicated to farm animals and raising awareness of their poor living conditions.
Being a philanthropist, Colleen Paige also commemorates National Wildlife Day (February 22 and September 4) to bring attention to endangered species.
National Farm Animals Day FAQs
Are there any solid laws in place for farm animals’ protection?
There are very few laws that benefit farm animals, especially on-site protection for animals in the U.S. This means that abuse often gets overlooked or ignored unless there are extremely shocking cases.
Does it cost more to keep farm animals in healthier and better conditions?
It depends, but the answer to the question is mostly, yes. However, consumer polls reveal that many people care about the welfare of farm animals and they are willing to pay more if it means that the animals are treated fairly.
What guidelines should I follow to ensure that I am buying only from trustworthy factories?
There are a few guidelines you can keep in mind while purchasing. You can do your research on brands by looking at their product labels and websites, and trying to see what farm-animal welfare practices they follow. For example, do brands ensure policies against caging/crowding and are they 100% transparent about animals’ lives under factory conditions, etc.?
National Farm Animals Day Activities
Read up on farm animals history
One of the best ways to go about this day is learning about the history of farm animals. By getting to know more about their past, you will be able to sketch a rough idea of their present and future. Animals, like any other living being, deserve respect, dignity, and the right to be heard.
Spread awareness
Talk to your friends, family, acquaintances, strangers, etc., and spread the word about the day and what it stands for. One of the best ways to do this is by using social media tools like hashtags, videos, posts, etc.
Donate to organizations
Search for farm animal organizations active and working in your locality. If none exist in your area, either start your own organization or use other ways to help by volunteering at farms or donating.
5 Facts About Animal Rights That Will Blow Your Mind
Farm animals facing the most abuse
Apart from domesticated animals like cats and dogs, farm animals face the most amount of abuse and neglect from their caretakers.
Fur from fur farms through cruelty
Most fur for fur coats and other clothing items comes from fur farms where animals are killed as young as six months old.
Women over 60 hoard animals
It has been found that women over 60 are more likely to hoard animals in small spaces.
Intentional animal cruelty leading to other crimes
It is estimated that people who intentionally inflict cruelty on animals are more likely going to be involved in other violent crimes, too.
Animal abuse common in farm factories
Undercover investigations led by state authorities have revealed that one of the highest cases of animal abuse occurs in farm factories.
Why We Love National Farm Animals Day
It’s a celebration of animal rights
Animals, be it farm ones or otherwise, deserve the right to live in good conditions like any other living being on this planet. Just because humans have been blessed with the ability to think and command, it does not mean that we should abuse other living beings for our selfish gain.
It’s a celebration of Mother Nature
Mother Nature has gifted us countless things that we benefit from every day. From beneficial plants and herbs to nutritious vitamins and minerals. It is our duty to give back and the least we can do is respect our food sources by providing them with the best living conditions possible.
It’s a celebration for a better tomorrow
The only way we can move forward and hope to have a bright future is if we take the reins today by evaluating our choices. If we do not treat our food sources the correct way, we are also harming ourselves and our future generations in the long run.
National Farm Animals Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | April 10 | Thursday |
| 2026 | April 10 | Friday |
| 2027 | April 10 | Saturday |
| 2028 | April 10 | Monday |
| 2029 | April 10 | Tuesday |
