November 30 — World Pet Day: history and traditions

Every year on November 30, many countries around the world, including Russia, celebrate World Pet Day, a date that reminds of the need for responsibility and humane treatment of "our lesser brothers." In 2025, the holiday falls on a Sunday. How it originated and how it is celebrated in different countries can be found in the Izvestia article.

World Pet Day 2025: the history of the holiday

World Pet Day is a symbol of their centuries—old union with humans. The prerequisites for its establishment arose back in the 19th century — during this period, the first organizations appeared in Europe that aimed to prevent ill-treatment. In 1840, the Royal Society was founded in Great Britain, which collected donations for their maintenance. This event was one of the first steps towards the formation of a systematic approach to the protection of pets.

The idea of the holiday was formulated in 1931 in Florence, at the International Congress of Supporters of the Movement for the Protection of Nature — activists proposed to establish a special day dedicated to pets. His main task was to remind society of the need for humane treatment of pets, the importance of responsible care and the fight against abuse.

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In Russia, this holiday began to be celebrated much later — in 2000, on the initiative of the International Fund for Animal Welfare. Since then, November 30 has been included in the calendar of animal protection communities, veterinary services, dog and feline companies as a significant date.

Goals and objectives of World Pet Day

World Pet Day has become an important tool for fostering a culture of responsible ownership. It not only reminds that pets need daily care and protection, but also helps to pay attention to those four-legged animals that are still waiting for their homes. Among the key tasks of the holiday are:

• raising awareness of citizens about the importance of humane and responsible treatment of pets;
• popularization of the principles of proper care, feeding and maintenance;
• combating abuse, supporting animal protection initiatives and shelters;
• Encouraging people to take animals from shelters rather than buying them from breeders unless there is an objective need to do so.

In fact, World Pet Day serves as a reminder that the right to have a pet is directly related to the responsibility and obligation to take care of him throughout his life.

Traditions of celebrating World Pet Day in Russia and the world

In honor of World Pet Day, events are held in various countries, attended by owners, volunteers, veterinarians, representatives of businesses and public organizations. In Russia, charity events and fundraisers for animal rights organizations are traditionally held on November 30, as well as open days in shelters where those who wish can get to know animals and take a pet to their family.

Another tradition of this day is educational projects, lectures, seminars, and open lessons on responsible animal ownership. In addition, specialists in various Russian regions provide consultations on care, feeding and veterinary prevention.

Environmental and environmental organizations use this date as an informational occasion to talk about respect for all living beings and the formation of a culture of responsibility for those whom man has tamed.

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Among the reasons are concerns about property and possible allergies.

Abroad, the format of the celebration is also diverse. Charity fairs and festivals are popular in European countries, the proceeds of which are used to support shelters. Public lectures are held on the importance of vaccination, sterilization and proper animal husbandry.

In the United States, owners often organize themed "parties" for pets, participate in charity races, auctions, and contests for the benefit of relief funds. Pet stores offer discounts on feed and accessories, and veterinary clinics provide free or discounted checkups and consultations.

Interesting facts about pets

In honor of the holiday, Izvestia has prepared some interesting facts about pets, which clearly demonstrate how complex and interesting their world is.

"Reasonable" purring

The structure of the feline brain is about 90% comparable to that of humans, and the areas responsible for emotions are largely similar in structure. At the same time, purring is not only a reaction to pleasure. Cats often make these sounds when they are in pain, fear, or stress. This "vibration mode" helps them calm down and, according to a number of studies, can contribute to a faster recovery of the body.

Nose prints are like a passport

The pattern on the dog's nose is absolutely unique. In some countries, it is used as an analog of a fingerprint to identify an animal. A subtle sense of smell complements the picture. The dog picks up not only the usual smells, but also changes in the composition of sweat and human breathing, which can "read" fear, anxiety or a painful condition. In addition, these animals have about 100 different facial expressions, through which they convey emotions and "communicate" with humans.

The "Linguists" of the feathered world

Grey jacko parrots are able to memorize and meaningfully use up to a thousand words and sounds in a "conversation". Many individuals choose words according to the situation, distinguish and use colors and shapes in "speech", and some, according to experts, recognize themselves in the mirror.

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Long-lived pets

Among pets, turtles often become real record holders in terms of life expectancy. One of the most famous examples is Harriet the turtle, which, according to Darwin's biographers, lived for more than 100 years and for many years was considered his family heirloom.

Sociality and speed

Domestic rabbits are gregarious and very sociable animals. In nature, they live in groups. Loneliness is a serious stress for them. In addition, these animals can accelerate to 50-55 km / h and jump to a height of about a meter, which helps them escape from predators.

Pets and sociability

Psychologists note that people who have pets are more likely to form stable social bonds. Animal walks, veterinary receptions, participation in exhibitions and forums become entry points to new communities and expand the circle of communication.

Earlier, Izvestia told how to protect a Christmas tree from pets.