Join us in a week-long celebration to support animal welfare, kindness and care—May 4–10, 2025.
What Is Be Kind to Animals Week?
From May 4-10, American Humane Society will celebrate Be Kind to Animals Week, an annual event that encourages compassion and kindness towards animals.
In 1915, we established this special week as a way to promote animal welfare and raise awareness about the treatment of animals. It is the longest-running commemorative week in U.S. history and this year marks its 110th anniversary.
Daily Themes & Ways to Participate
Take part in a daily act of kindness that supports animal welfare:
- Sunday: “Start with Kindness” – Begin the week by completing one small act of kindness for animals. Simple actions, like donating pet supplies to a local shelter or refilling a birdbath, can make a big difference for animals in your community.
- Monday: “Give a Second Chance” – Support local shelters and rescues that provide lifesaving care for animals who’ve been victims of cruelty or neglect. You can learn more about volunteer opportunities or fostering pets and can help save lives.
- Tuesday: “Choose Humane” – Make compassion part of your lifestyle by choosing humanely raised food at the grocery store (look for the American Humane Certified™ seal), visiting zoos and aquariums that are American Humane Certified, watching movies that support animal welfare on set, and more.
- Wednesday: “Care for Your Pets” – Explore tips for responsible, compassionate pet care at home, including emergency preparedness for pets, pet health and safety tips and more.
- Thursday: “Protect Wildlife” – Take action to safeguard wild animals and their natural habitats. With thousands of species at risk or endangered, it’s essential that we advocate for these voiceless animals and learn more about life-saving conservation initiatives. Our team at the Global Humane Conservation Fund of Africa has several programs to protect wildlife in Southern Africa.
- Friday: “Celebrate the Human–Animal Bond” – Honor the inspiring stories of Hero Dogs and animals who change lives. The Hero Dog Award winners have remarkable stories to share, from rescuing missing children with keen scent tracking skills, to lending comfort and support to those in need.
- Saturday: “Be the Voice of the Voiceless” – Speak up through advocacy and community involvement. Now more than ever, it is important for us to use our voices to speak on behalf of animals. Currently, there are several pieces of legislation in Congress that could improve the support and protection of animals. We hope you will help us advocate for them by calling your representatives.
110 Years of Impact: The Legacy of Be Kind to Animals Week
Since its inception over a century ago, Be Kind to Animals Week has significantly impacted public attitudes toward animal welfare. It serves as an essential reminder that every creature deserves love and respect.
By participating in this observance each year, we contribute positively not only towards individual lives but also help create a more compassionate society overall. Whether through education or action during this week—or any time throughout the year—we can all play a part in making sure animals receive the kindness they deserve!
