Nobody said the dog actually had to be doing the walking. Photos: Thomas Lucraft.
Canberra is set to become the only city in Australia to host the RSPCA’s biggest annual fundraising event from next year.
The animal welfare organisation is pulling the pin on its national Million Paws Walk events after the last one on 25 May due to “cost-of-living pressures and a dramatically changed fundraising landscape”.
Over the past 30 years, more than 400,000 dogs and their owners have taken part in cities across the country, raising a total of $17 million.
RSPCA Australia CEO Richard Mussell said it was “not a decision we took lightly” to hang up the leash on the event.
“However, the financial strain on animal lovers and increasing event costs has meant Million Paws Walk is no longer able to provide what it once could to the community while also effectively fundraising for much-needed RSPCA services,” he said.
“The RSPCA feels it best to channel resources directly to support the animals in our care, and ensure every dollar supports the critical services and care that have become increasingly costly to provide.”
The RSPCA thanked all the “superhumans and super pooches that have pounded the pavement with us”, as well as the thousands of staff and volunteers who help to make it happen.
“The RSPCA couldn’t achieve what we do each and every day without your compassion, generosity and fun spirit.”
The march of the dogs is off.
The final Million Paws Walk events will be held in ever state and territory, except for Western Australia, on Sunday, 25 May.
“The RSPCA encourages everyone to step up as a superhero for animals in need and get involved for the final ‘walkies’ in May as we bid farewell to our iconic event,” Mr Mussell said.
“Let’s make sure it’s the biggest and best event showcasing your love for all creatures great and small!”
However, RSPCA ACT has confirmed the local arm is “taking a different path” and will continue to hold the event annually.
“I really do believe we are quite unique in the ACT,” CEO Michelle Robertson told Region this week.
“We have only one walk, many other states have numerous walks, and our event is still well supported. Fundraising is one aspect of our event, but it is also about connecting and awareness.”
The ACT Million Paws Walk was first held in 1997. It sets off around Lake Burley Griffin from the Patrick White Lawns at 11 am and ends back at the lawns with “food, music, retail stalls, prizes and more” in the early afternoon around 2 o’clock.
About 1800 participated in last year’s event, raising $50,000.
Ms Robertson said while the walk would continue, “it might look a bit different next year”.
“It’s our one big public event and I’d like to continue with it for as long as the community continues to support it.”
Tickets to the ACT Million Paws Walk are available to buy on the RSPCA website.
