The NPO says that while animals experience the world differently from humans, they all have the capacity to feel pain, fear, stress and comfort, and their wellbeing is directly influenced by human actions. 

In South Africa, challenges affecting companion, farm and wild animals remain widespread. FOUR PAWS says that animal shelters continue to care for abandoned and neglected pets, concerns persist about conditions within food production systems and many wild animals face threats from exploitation, captivity and ongoing pressure on their natural habitats. 

"The theme, 'See the World Through Their Eyes' challenges us to look beyond our own experiences and consider what animals need to live healthy, dignified lives. At its core, animal welfare is about recognising that animals are sentient beings that can feel pain, distress, comfort and joy, and ensuring their needs are respected," says Fiona Miles, Director of FOUR PAWS South Africa.

Miles says improving animal welfare starts with understanding animals as individuals with physical, psychological and behavioural needs.

"A dog needs safety, companionship and responsible care. Farm animals need space, appropriate living conditions, the ability to express natural behaviours and humane treatment throughout their lives," adds Miles, "Wild animals need freedom from exploitation and the opportunity to live according to their natural behaviours. When we put animal welfare first, we create a better future for all animals." 

FOUR PAWS is encouraging South Africans to use World Animal Day as an opportunity to take practical steps that improve animal welfare, including adopting responsibly, sterilising pets, supporting animal shelters, choosing plant-based products and avoiding activities that exploit wild animals for entertainment. 

"Many people care deeply about animals but are not always aware of how their everyday choices can affect them. Small actions, when multiplied across communities, can make a significant difference," says Miles. 

The organisation believes that creating a more compassionate society begins with recognising the intrinsic value of animals and promoting kindness, empathy and respect. 

"It is not just about preventing cruelty. We should strive to ensure animals have the opportunity to experience positive lives. This World Animal Day, we encourage South Africans to see the world through animals' eyes and ask a simple question: what can I do today to create a better life for the animals around me?" says Miles. 

According to FOUR PAWS, communities can support animal welfare in the following ways: 

  • Adopt animals from shelters instead of buying them.
  • Sterilise pets to help prevent unwanted litters and abandonment.
  • Support local animal welfare organisations through donations or volunteering.
  • Choose plant-based products.
  • Avoid interactions with captive wild animals and support ethical wildlife experiences.
  • Teach children to treat animals with respect, empathy and understanding. 

For more information, visit www.four-paws.org.za.

*Image courtesy of contributor