For one day only, Adelaide Botanic Garden opens to dogs

Dogs don’t usually make it past the gate at Adelaide’s much-loved Botanic Garden, but next Sunday May 29 will be a one-off exception.

In a gesture of support for animals in RSPCA South Australia’s care, Adelaide Botanic Garden is allowing people and their pooches inside for a stroll through the tranquil city oasis as part of RSPCA’s Million Paws Walk fundraiser, occurring throughout May.

The sign-posted 1.8km walk will begin from the Garden’s Conservatory Gate, off Plane Tree Drive. By making a donation of $10 or more, participants can join in anytime between 9:00 am to 11:30 am on Sunday, May 29. (Donations can be made on the day, either by credit card or in cash. Due to limited numbers, registration to participate is encouraged – details below.)

RSPCA SA’s fundraising coordinator Gemma Weedall predicts the rare opportunity for people to enjoy the Garden with their dogs will have wide appeal.

“We’re delighted that the Garden’s authorities have given a green light to this special morning walk, giving dog lovers a treat while also raising funds for the over 1000 animals we currently have in care,” Ms Weedall said.

“The walk is taking place on Botanic Gardens Day, an annual celebration of the important work botanic gardens staff and volunteers do every day to conserve plants for future generations, which seems very fitting.

“When you talk with people passionate about animal welfare you find that many are equally passionate about plants and preserving nature.”

Botanic Gardens and State Herbarium Director, Michael Harvey, said the Garden’s team is excited to welcome dogs on a leash and their owners on this special occasion.

“We are looking forward to opening the garden to a new kind of visitor for this special day, and are especially pleased we can help raise funds for such an important cause,” Mr Harvey said.

“Dog owners can enjoy a leisurely stroll on a designated route with their four-legged friend, and stop off at a dog-friendly lawn inside the Garden if they want to recharge with a picnic as they soak in the autumn scenery on Botanic Gardens Day.”

RSPCA’s Million Paws Walk is a national campaign and the charity’s main annual fundraiser. This year, SA’s dog lovers are encouraged to take on the Million Paws Walk challenge, by walking with their furry friend throughout May, to raise funds to fight animal cruelty.

“Next Sunday morning’s Botanic Garden walk gives people who normally attend the physical walk staged in previous years, the chance to come together for a ‘mini walk’ in one of our city’s most beautiful locations,” Ms Weedall said.

“We definitely need this funding boost as we head into the high-demand winter months, and I encourage people to register as soon as possible because numbers are restricted.”

To register please go to Million Paws Walk in the Garden

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