RSPCA Victoria is encouraging Victorians to join thousands of other Australians and their pooches to hit the pavement this May, to raise funds for the RSPCA. Registrations are open via www.millionpawswalk.com.au
The RSPCA's Million Paws Walk is an annual highlight for dog lovers across the country where people and their canine friends walk together to raise funds to support the thousands of animals that need the RSPCA's help every year.
In response to ongoing developments of COVID-19, RSPCA Victoria has adapted the much-loved national dog walking event for 2021. Replacing organised community events and running in a revised event format, Million Paws Walk: Walk This May is asking Victorian dog owners to hit the pavement for 30 minutes a day for the month of May to raise funds to fight animal cruelty.
Million Paws Walk - Walk this May runs nationally and while social distancing is a national priority, Australia's super pooches still need enrichment and exercise. This year in Victoria, RSPCA is asking supporters to safely take their dogs for a walk in their neighbourhood or their own backyard, as way of continuing the tradition of walking in May to raise funds for RSPCA.
RSPCA Victoria CEO Dr Liz Walker hopes Victorians will take the opportunity to celebrate their four-legged friends by walking to fundraise for animals in need.
"The past year has highlighted for many of us the invaluable comfort and companionship our pets provide. However, there are many animals that haven't yet found caring forever homes. It's our job at RSPCA Victoria to care for, protect and find homes for the many animals in need and we rely on community support to do this."
"I encourage all Victorians to take on the challenge and register to Walk this May with the knowledge they will be helping other animals find their perfect companion," says Dr Walker.
Participants are encouraged to record all their dog walks using the 'Pawdometre' on the Million Paws Walk website, as well as fundraise in the lead up to the event. Money raised from online fundraising and merchandise sales will be used to support RSPCA Victoria's work within the community, including caring for more than 20,000 animals that come through its shelters each year.
RSPCA Ambassador Tim Campbell has hosted the Million Paws Walk at Albert Park for 12 consecutive years and while he won't be on stage at Albert Park this year, he'll be walking his RSPCA rescue dog, Oscar, in acknowledgement of the many animals in need across the state.
"It's more important than ever that we keep on walking our four-legged friends this year. While the pandemic has impacted our lives in many ways, we still have a responsibility to our pets and all the animals in our community so while I walk Oscar this May, I'll be thinking of all the animals we'll be helping RSPCA Victoria to care for and rehome," said Tim.
