By Jessica Micallef
Whittlesea and Hume residents and their furry pooches are being encouraged to hit the pavement in their own backyards and neighbourhoods as part of the RSPCA’s Million Paws Walk.
The annual public walk, scheduled for May 17, has been cancelled in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, the RSPCA is asking people to put on their walking shoes and take their four-legged friends on a walk in their local area during May, while still following the rules of social distancing.
The RSPCA said the new event format, now known as Million Paws Walk: Walk This May, will encourage people to spend time with their dogs while still providing a pathway for participants to contribute to animal welfare and support RSPCA’s work to help end animal cruelty.
RSPCA Victoria chief executive Liz Walker said participants can still donate and raise money for the organisation.
“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 to fundraise for animals in need where possible,“ she said.
“Dogs have the incredible ability to provide unspoken support. I think our pets will provide much comfort over the coming months.
“The Million Paws Walk this May is an opportunity for owners to give back to them, and all animal-kind, in return.“
Those who have already purchased tickets to the event can request a refund or have the ticket cost transferred to a tax-deductible donation.
Details: millionpawswalk.com.au/
