RSPCA Victoria’s Million Paws Walk is on again with thirty-four events across Australia on Sunday 28 May, including eight in Victoria with the state’s flagship walk taking place at Albert Park.
The ‘pawsome’ day raises vital funds to help fight animal cruelty as the cost-of-living continues to bite not just RSPCA Victoria but also our four-legged friends.
RSPCA Victoria CEO Dr. Liz Walker said the charity wasn’t immune to the financial pressures everyone is facing.
“Currently we’re experiencing a perfect storm with unprecedented demand for our services, increased costs combined with reductions in donations, revenue, and in volunteer numbers,” Dr. Walker said.
“Sadly, there’s been a 340% increase in calls regarding surrendering a pet over the last three years, and the number of animals seized by or surrendered to RSPCA Victoria inspectors has more than doubled from 1,035 in 2017-18 to 2,172 in 2021-22.
“Many of these animals require complex medical and behavioural care, sometimes lasting for weeks or months.
“This combination is really stretching RSPCA Victoria’s resources and is why events like Million Paws Walk are so vital.”
RSPCA Victoria’s Million Paws Walk is an amazing day for animal lovers and their dogs to come together and raise vital funds.
“We’re so grateful to the Victorian community for their ongoing support and to all our amazing volunteers without whom we simply couldn’t do what we do,” Dr. Walker said.
“Million Paws Walk is a fantastic day out and I can’t wait to see hundreds of dogs, along with families and friends having a wonderful time.
“All funds raised go towards funding our critical work helping the tens of thousands of vulnerable animals in need who come through our doors each year.”
Attendees at Melbourne’s flagship walk at Albert Park Lake will enjoy live entertainment, food trucks, veterinary advice, fun exhibits, along with dog competitions such as “Waggiest Tail,” and can win prizes on the day. The event opens at 9am, with the walk kicking off at 11am.
