THE RSPCA is celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Million Paws Walk this year, with the local walk to be held on Sunday May 26 at the Mansfield Botanic Park. Registrations for participants are now open, with a ‘barking-mad’ discount of 60 per cent available until March 27, 2024. The event will start at 8:30 am, with the walk commencing at 10:00 am and festivities concluding at 2:30 pm. Thousands of pups and their owners will hit the pavement across Victoria to raise vital funds to help to end animal cruelty, and the organisation is calling for residents and businesses to get involved in this year’s event. More than 6000 people and around 9000 dogs are expected to participate. RSPCA Victoria CEO Dr Liz Walker said the funds raised at every walk help end animal cruelty, one step at a time. “The money raised helps us care for the thousands of animals coming into our shelter every year, including those seized by our Inspectors,” Dr Walker said. “Mansfield is in our Inspectorate’s North-East region, which received 1040 reports of animal cruelty while 228 animals were seized by or surrendered to our Inspectors. “The community support our Inspectors see every day keeps them going, so it’s wonderful to be celebrating these fantastic events like the Million Paws Walk. “Communities like Mansfield are vital to our mission to end cruelty to animals, and there’s no better way to help out than a fun and dog-friendly environment like your local Million Paws Walk.” Dr Walker said they can’t wait to see the amazing dogs, families and friends at this year’s event. Locals interested in volunteering or businesses interested in running a vendor stall at this year’s Mansfield Million Paws Walk can register at MPW@rspcavic.org.au or 03 9224 2222. What: RSPCA Million Paws Walk Mansfield Where: Mansfield Botanic Park - corner of High Street and Whitfield Road. When: Sunday, 26th May, 8:30am – 12:00pm Tickets: www.millionpawswalk.com.au/mansfield
