Found shivering and alone on the roadside in rural Victoria, tiny Reggie the piglet could so easily have become another tragic statistic. Instead, he has found sanctuary at Edgar’s Mission in Lancefield, where more than 550 rescued animals live lives defined by compassion, not cruelty.
This week marks Be Kind to Animals Week, a national initiative led by Edgar’s Mission that encourages Australians to transform their compassion for animals into meaningful action. From pledging to make kind choices to adopting simple daily habits that protect animals, the week celebrates the powerful ripple effect kindness can have.
Pam Ahern, founder of Edgar’s Mission and Australian ambassador for World Animal Day (October 4), says the campaign is a reminder that kindness benefits everyone.
“Every animal at Edgar’s Mission has endured hardship, yet time and again they demonstrate the ability to forgive, to heal, and to thrive,” says Ahern. “Be Kind to Animals Week is about recognising that same power within ourselves — to choose kindness, to take action, and to make the world better not only for animals, but for people and the planet too.”
Now six weeks old, Reggie is living proof. Rescued at just ten days old, frightened and cold on the side of a highway, he has blossomed into a joyful, confident piglet thanks to the gentle care and consistent kindness of those who refused to give up on him.
“Acts of kindness don’t need to be grand gestures,” says Ahern.
“Whether it’s choosing a plant-based meal, providing water for wildlife, or supporting sanctuaries like Edgar’s Mission, small actions add up. They inspire others and change lives — just as kindness has changed Reggie’s.”
To take the pledge and discover practical ways to show kindness this Be Kind to Animals Week, visit Edgar’s Mission on social media, and at bekindtoanimalsweek.org.au.
