If you love animals, then you should put World Animal Day on your calendar or in your diary. It takes place each year on the 4th of October. It all started in Italy in 1931 at an ecology conference. The scientists wanted to highlight the plight of endangered species. People were concerned about this even at the beginning of the last century. Today the day celebrates all kinds of animal life. Many countries around the world hold different activities and events. It is on October the 4th because this is the day of St Francis of Assisi, who is the patron saint of animals. Anyone, from any religion, background or country celebrates this important day.