DECEMBER 3rd ANIMAL GUARDIAN DAY Mayor Francis Slay declares December 3rd as "Animal Guardian Day." To present the proclamation at the December 3rd Hope for the Holidays Gala. RECOGNIZING "Animal Guardian Day" that is being sponsored by Stray Rescue of St. Louis and In Defense of Animals on December 3rd, 2004 WHEREAS, December 3rd is Animal Guardian Day, dedicated to recognizing those individuals who faithfully dedicate themselves to the lifelong care of and protection of their animal companions; and WHEREAS, Stray Rescue of St. Louis will sponsor "Animal Guardian Day" on December 3rd, in order to make the general public aware of the campaign to designate the animals we share our lives with as companions, more than mere property, objects or things, and to now refer to ourselves and others as "guardians" of our animal friends; and WHEREAS, Every step that is taken to enhance the human-animal bond decreases the likelihood of animals being relinquished, as guardians do not breed, buy or sell animals; instead they rescue and adopt at our local shelters; and WHEREAS, Edwin J. Sayres, President of the ASPCA explains: "The term 'guardian' accurately describes the relationship of perpetual care that is needed to teach children respect, compassion and kindness to domestic pets. Studies show that children who learn compassion and respect for animals have a better chance at becoming compassionate adults and responsible community members, and are less likely to behave violently towards others."; and WHEREAS, Research has shown that the vast majority of people with animals in their care regard them as family members; and WHEREAS, Local governments that refer to residents as guardians affirm the positive impact that citizens can have on local problematic animals issues such as overpopulation and animal abuse; and WHEREAS, Calling residents an animal guardian empowers communities to work together toward common solutions; and WHEREAS, This simple language change denotes a higher level of responsibility toward another living thing; hopefully creating awareness that will elevate the status of care of animals and provide yet another tool to fight animal abuse and exploitation; now, therefore be it WHEREAS, This Office of the Mayor proclaims December 3rd Animal Guardian Day in St. Louis.

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