We have all kinds of commemorative days, weeks, and months in the United States, including National Nothing Day (January 16) and Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day (last Monday in January).  But the oldest of all these special designations in our country is Be Kind to Animals Week, which is the first full week in May (May 3 to May 9 this year).

According to the American Humane Society, Be Kind to Animals Week was established in 1915, making it 111 years old.  American Humane began the recognition during World War I, because of the hardships that war caused to animals.   One of the special activities during the first Be Kind to Animals Week was a national poster contest for children.  In 1922, President Warren G. Harding issued the first official government proclamation regarding the week.  In 1936, Shirley Temple was the Junior Chair of Be Kind to Animals Week.  Virtually every year during World War II, Eleanor Roosevelt wrote in her newspaper column about the importance of the commemoration. Chairs of the week over the years have included Jon Provost (Timmy, who had to be saved so many times on Lassie), Lorne Green, Betty White, Carol Burnett, John Wayne, and Clint Eastwood.  This and more can be found at americanhumane.org.

The American Humane Society also has specific recommendations for actions to take each day during Be Kind to Animals Week:

Sunday, begin the week with one small act of kindness to an animal.

Monday, give a second chance by supporting/volunteering at a shelter or rescue that helps animals who have experienced cruelty or neglect.

Tuesday (and every day), make compassion your lifestyle by choosing products and foods that do not harm animals.

Wednesday, give special care and joy to the companion animals with whom you share your home and life.

Thursday, take an action that protects wildlife.

Friday, celebrate the bond between animals and humans.

Saturday, be a voice for the voiceless by action in your community.

Happy Be Kind to Animals Week to You and All the Animals!

–Elizabeth Decoux