Celebrate 100 Years of World Animal Day by Donating a Dinner to Animals in Need

That's Food and Drink recently carried a feature on World Animal Day and we are pleased to be able to bring another feature on this very important day and how you can help celebrate it.

This October 4 marks the 100th anniversary of World Animal Day, and animal lovers are being urged to celebrate by taking part in Naturewatch Foundation’s ‘Donate a Dinner’ campaign, helping to feed animals in rescue centres as they wait for their forever homes.

Cheltenham-based charity Naturewatch Foundation, who coordinates World Animal Day worldwide, has already marked this milestone by donating 100 dinners to Vale Wildlife Hospital, supporting the incredible work they do to care for injured and orphaned wildlife.

With rescue and rehoming centres under growing pressure from rising numbers of abandoned animals, community support has never been more important.

Sarah Carr, CEO of Naturewatch Foundation and coordinator of World Animal Day, told That's Food and Drink: “World Animal Day on October 4 is the biggest day of the year for animals, and this year is extra special as we celebrate its centenary. 

"Donating a dinner is such a simple but powerful way to show kindness. Every meal donated helps an animal in need and supports the incredible people who care for them.

“This year, to celebrate 100 years of World Animal Day, we proudly donated 100 dinners to Vale Wildlife Hospital, and we’d love for others to get involved too.”

There are several simple ways to ‘Donate a Dinner’:

● Drop a packet or tin in your rescue centre’s collection box, or food bank collection point, or any participating pet shops or supermarkets

● Take your food donation directly to your local rescue centre

● Purchase items from a centre’s Amazon Wishlist

● Donate the cost of a meal through their website

Natalie Gould at Vale Wildlife Hospital said: “We are thrilled to have been chosen for support during the ‘Donate a Dinner’ Campaign. 

"With over 8,000 British wildlife casualties coming through our doors annually, food costs for the charity are exceptionally high. 

"The ‘Donate a Dinner’ Campaign is a fantastic way to support animal charities, and your support means we can feed more sick, injured and orphaned wildlife. Thank you, from all at Vale Wildlife Hospital.”

Sarah Carr added: “Don’t forget – if you’re struggling to feed the animals in your family, there is help available. Larger charities, including the RSPCA, Blue Cross and Dogs Trust, all run pet food banks to help animals stay with their families during these unpredictable times.”

If you’d like to get involved further on World Animal Day, you can host an event, take part in the 100K Challenge, or pledge an act of kindness for animals. Full details and resources can be found at worldanimalday.org.uk.

Celebrate World Animal Day with Coffee, Cake, and Charity

Having written about the patron saint of animals, St Francis of Assisi, we now turn our attention to World Animal Day.

What is it? World Animal Day, observed every year on 4th October, is a chance to show our appreciation for animals and support the organisations that work tirelessly to protect them. 

Whether you’re a pet lover, wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone who wants to make a difference, there are fun and delicious ways to mark the occasion—all while raising funds for a worthy cause.

Host a Coffee and Cake Fundraiser

One of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to celebrate World Animal Day is with a coffee and cake event. Invite friends, family, or colleagues to your home, workplace, or local community centre for a morning or afternoon gathering.

Set up a donation table: Ask guests to contribute a small donation per cup of coffee or slice of cake.

Bake or buy themed treats: Animal-shaped cookies, paw-print cupcakes, or chocolate “bones” are sure to delight.

Add a little extra: Include a raffle or a small auction with donated items from local businesses.

A simple coffee and cake event can not only raise money for animal charities but also spread awareness about their work.

Indulge in a Wine and Cheese Evening

For those who prefer something a little more sophisticated, consider hosting a wine and cheese evening. This is a great way to attract adult supporters while creating a cosy, social atmosphere.

Pairings that impress: Choose cheeses from around the world and pair them with complementary wines.

Ticketed entry or donations: Charge a modest entry fee, or ask guests to donate per glass.

Incorporate awareness: Include a short presentation or videos about the animal causes you’re supporting.

Wine and cheese parties combine indulgence with purpose, making it easier for guests to relax, enjoy themselves, and contribute to animal welfare.

Get Creative with Fundraising

There are endless ways to make your World Animal Day celebration memorable:

Hold a pet photo contest or display photos of animals from your local shelter.

Offer DIY crafts or animal-themed merchandise for sale.

Collaborate with local cafés or wine bars to host community fundraisers.

No matter the format, the key is to combine social fun with raising awareness and funds for animals in need.

Make a Difference Year-Round

While World Animal Day is a great focal point, the support doesn’t have to stop there. Consider setting up regular coffee mornings or wine and cheese evenings throughout the year to continue supporting your favourite animal charities.

By celebrating World Animal Day with friends, food, and drinks, you’re not just having fun—you’re making a real difference in the lives of animals who need it most.