PORT Macquarie RSPCA is inviting the community to join them for the final lap of their Million Paws Walk.
After 30 years of branches around the country raising $17m to fight animal cruelty, this will be the event’s last.
The decision to hang up the leash was due to cost-of-living pressures and the rise in event costs since the pandemic.
“We are feeling sad that this will be the last Million Paws Walk,” said President of the Port Macquarie Volunteer Branch of the RSPCA, Kath Ryan.
“It’s such a great opportunity for dog lovers to have a great big get-together.”
“The Last Lap” of the Million Paws Walk will take place on Saturday, 25 May, at the East Fields of Tuffins Lane Sportsground in Port Macquarie.
Registrations open at 9am with the walk commencing at 10am.
During what is set to be a fun and wholesome morning, participants will walk a 1.5km track.
The morning will be jam-packed with music by the All Seasons Concert Band and human participants are invited to enjoy a barbecue with Blah Blah Blah Coffee for Blokes and a hot cuppa from Round & Round Coffee.
There will be colourful fun with Wild Child Face Painting on offer, training tips from Jason Harris Dog Training, and photo opportunities with Grace Photography.
The pooches can join some challenging competitions, including the waggiest tail and the best sit-and-stay.
All for a very good cause.
“Funds raised go towards helping low-income pet owners get their animals desexed and to provide emergency care funding with unexpected vet bills,” Kath said.
While the team at the Port Macquarie RSPCA branch are disappointed that this is the end for the Walk, they are encouraged by the local community’s ongoing support.
“We get a lot of support from Port Macquarie-Hastings residents and businesses and we couldn’t do what we do without them.”
Once the pups have gone home and the Walk has had its final lap, the RSPCA will need the community more than ever.
“Like most charities, we struggle to find enough people who are willing to join our branch to help us run our fundraising and animal welfare programs.”
In addition to volunteering, the community can also support the RSPCA by donating to the local Op Shop and taking part in future fundraising events like the Doggy Day Out event held last year.
To take part in the Million Paws Walk, go to the event page at millionpawswalk.com.au/port-macquarie.
By Rikki WALLER
