NATIONAL FARM ANIMALS DAY
Each year on April 10th, National Farm Animals Day focuses attention on the humane care of farm animals. The day also aims to find homes for abandoned and abused farm animals.
#NationalFarmAnimalsDay
A variety of animals have been domesticated and raised on farms for food. They provide eggs, milk, cheese, meat, wool, leather, and other products. Most farmers raise their livestock responsibly. Providing a quality environment for them to grow benefits the animal and the farmer, too. Farmers invest in their livestock from the time they’re born, providing nutritious food, and ensuring robust and healthy development. They also provide ideal conditions for their breed. Farmers are continually educating themselves about the livestock they raise so they can provide them with the best care possible.
However, some people do abuse and neglect their animals. When poor conditions are discovered, and animals are malnourished, it’s essential to report the case to a veterinarian for review.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL FARM ANIMALS DAY
Learn more about farm production.
- Discover how farmers care for farm animals and where our food comes from.
- Visit a farm and find out about the animals that live there. What kinds of food do they eat? Where do they sleep?
- Learn the difference between raising farm animals, abuse, and neglect.
- Families, download and print this Farm Animal coloring sheet. Enjoy!
- Use #NationalFarmAnimalsDay to post on social media.
NATIONAL FARM ANIMALS DAY HISTORY
Animal Rescuer, Vegetarian, and Celebrity Pet Lifestyle Expert, Colleen Paige, created Farm Animals Day in 2005.
Farm Animals FAQ
Q. What is a good way to expose children to farm animals?
A. Most of us grow up in the city or suburbs, but that doesn’t mean you can’t learn more about the animals who live on a farm. Some great ways to expose children to farm animals include:
- Many zoos include a farm display that includes animals like sheep, goats, pigs, cows, chickens, and ducks.
- Visit a petting zoo. These smaller zoos are home to domesticated animals found on a farm. They often serve as a rescue service, too.
- Visit a hobby farm. Many hobby farms host times for school-age children to visit their animals in residence. They learn what they eat, where they sleep, and how the farmers care for them.
- Tour a working farm. Many farmers offer opportunities for school-age children to visit and learn more about farming.
- Attend a fair. Each year, counties and states host events like 4-H Fairs for farmers and farmer children to showcase their hard work.
Q. What kinds of animals are found on farms?
A. Every farm is different and raises different breeds of animals. Some of the animals found on a farm include:
- Chickens
- Sheep
- Goats
- Cattle
- Horses
- Emus
- Buffalo
- Pigs
- Alpacas
- Turkeys
- Fish
- Ducks
- Geese
April 10th Celebrated History
1849
Walter Hunt of New York City receives the first U.S. patent for a safety pin. While safety pins existed before patent no. 6,281 was issued, it is the first patent issued for a safety pin.
1866
Henry Bergh founds the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) in New York City.
1872
Journalist and newspaper editor J. Sterling Morton establishes the first Arbor Day in Nebraska with hopes that it would spread across the country.
1925
Charles Scribner’s Sons publishes F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby.
April 10th Celebrated Birthday
Joseph Pulitzer – 1847
The newspaper publisher purchased the New York World in 1883 and decade later became embroiled in a heated journalistic war with William Randolph Hearst. In 1918, following Joseph Pulitzer’s death, Columbia University established the Pulitzer Prize according to his will.
Clare Newberry – 1903
The American author and illustrator is best known for her children’s books. During her career, she earned four Caldecott Medals
Dolores Huerta – 1930
In 1962, labor leader co-founded the National Farmworkers Association with Cesar Chavez.
John Madden – 1936
An injury early in his NFL career didn’t keep John Madden from realizing his dreams in the professional world of football. Madden would persevere and be named as head coach for the Oakland Raiders, demanding respect and chalking up wins. After coaching, he continued his love of the sport through broadcasting.