RSPCA has adapted its much-loved national dog walking event by launching Million Paws Walk: Walk This May. In response to ongoing developments of COVID-19, RSPCA will no longer hold a public event on Sunday 17 May, but instead, a revised event format will see dog owners hit the pavement in their own neighbourhoods and backyards, responsibly walking to fight animal cruelty in May.
Million Paws Walk: Walk this May will celebrate a mutual love of animals while keeping dogs and walkers safe and healthy by cancelling planned community events around the country. Instead, participants are encouraged to don their workout gear, grab the leash and walk their four-legged friends with purpose in their own backyards. The new format encourages people to spend time with their dogs while still providing a pathway for participants to contribute to animal welfare and support RSPCA Victoria’s vital work to end animal cruelty.
RSPCA Victoria CEO Dr Liz Walker hopes participants still see the value in joining a community event that allows social distancing while continuing to fundraise for animals in need where possible.
“Million Paws Walk is my favourite event of the year and while the revised format means we can’t physically bring people together, we can still connect them through a shared love of dogs,” says Dr Walker.
“Dogs have an incredible ability to provide unspoken support. I think our pets will provide much comfort over the coming months, so Million Paws Walk: Walk this May is an opportunity for owners to give back to them, and all animal-kind, in return.”
Participants are encouraged to record all their dog walks using the new ‘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.
The day will be tied together using the hashtag #MillionPawsWalk and #MPWDOGSQUAD so all walkers can connect and share photos of their dogs and walk routes on social media.
Tim Campbell who has hosted the regular Melbourne walk at Albert Park for 12 years running urges Victorians to jump on board, despite the change in format.
“I’ve had such high respect for what RSPCA does and stands for since I was a child. And I’m committed to show my support this May – even if I’m talking Oscar on walks around my neighbourhood and sharing the page!” he said.
Those who have already purchased tickets are encouraged to have their ticket cost transferred to a tax-deductable donation, however those requesting a refund can contact RSPCA Victoria directly to arrange this.
Individuals can go online to keep up-to-date with the latest information, sign-up for Million Paws Walk: Walk This May, purchase merchandise and start fundraising today.
Details on the website at www.millionpawswalk.com.au
RSPCA Victoria is grateful for the following sponsor support of the Million Paws Walk:
– Hill’s Pet Nutrition, National Nutrition Sponsor of the RSPCA and the Million Paws Walk
– Hush Puppies, Victoria Premier Sponsor
– Advocate, Victoria Supporting Sponsor.
