World Donkey Day 2025: Honoring the Unsung Heroes

ROME, Italy — World Donkey Day is celebrated every year on May 8, and in 2025, it falls on a Thursday. This day highlights the importance of donkeys in various aspects of human life, promoting compassion and respect for these gentle animals.

Founded by Raffaele Mazzarella in collaboration with the International Donkey Protection organization, World Donkey Day aims to change the common perceptions about donkeys. Often overlooked, donkeys provide invaluable assistance in farming, transportation, and cargo movement, particularly in rural communities.

The awareness campaigns and educational activities organized on this day focus on the challenges faced by donkeys, including neglect, overwork, and exploitation. Despite their hard work, donkeys are frequently mistreated and taken for granted. The day serves as a reminder of the respect they deserve and the need for better treatment.

On this observance, animal welfare organizations urge for improved policies to protect donkeys and enhance their welfare. With reports indicating rising concerns over donkey populations due to exploitation for their skins, the message of World Donkey Day is more crucial than ever.

As 2025’s World Donkey Day approaches, the call to action is clear: show kindness and acknowledge the vital role donkeys play in our lives. It’s a day to celebrate not only the resilience of these animals but also to advocate for their rights and well-being.