We’ve just returned from the very fulfilling and slightly exhausting Million Paws Walk for 2013.
The Kelpie of Few Accomplishments was resplendent in his bandana and plodded dutifully along for the entire inner lake loop.
As a fundraiser for the local RSPCA it was a great event.
Getting there at 9.30 it was already busy with dozens of stalls catering to both humans and dogs.
As the 11 approached the crowd gathered around the entrance and then a very long wait ensued as the horde slowly got started walking around the lake not helped by the plonkers who for some reason got through the gate and then stopped in the path.
Bowen Place was once again an atrocity (thankfully to be fixed before too long).
But the weather was lovely, the humans and dogs were in good humour, and it was a delightful walk.
If you’ve got pictures feel free to send them in to images@the-riotact.com and I’ll put them up.
Threepaws has sent in a slew to kick off the slideshow:
The RSPCA has had this to say about today’s jam packed event:
Michael Linke, CEO of RSPCA ACT, today thanked the Canberra community for their support of Million Paws Walk. In its eighth year at Stage 88, Sunday’s walk saw the biggest crowd to attend the event in its history, with over 12,000 people and almost 4,500 dogs
“Canberrans should be very proud of the turnout to this event each and every year. Of the 70 walks across the country, Canberra’s is the third largest” Mr Linke said. “It is uplifting for our dedicated staff and volunteers to see so many people support this event.”
Chief Minister Katy Gallagher cut the ribbon to launch the walk around Lake Burley Griffin. Participants enjoyed a stunning Canberra autumn day with over 70 stalls to browse and on stage entertainment throughout the day.
Money raised from Million Paws Walk each year goes directly into animal care at the RSPCA shelter in Weston. As well as caring for over 8,000 animals each year, including dogs, cats, small animals, wildlife and livestock, RSPCA ACT offers a number of programs to support pet owners in the Canberra community. With over 92% of dogs finding a home, as well as an unparalleled figure of 90% of kittens, RSPCA ACT is committed to improving animal welfare in the ACT.
“We saw many people walking without a dog this year – whether they were walking on behalf of an animal at home, or simply walking to support the valuable work of RSPCA, we would like to thank each and every person, and the one cat and one pig, who joined us on Sunday” Mr Linke said.
This year saw a local fundraising team raise the most money of any team in the country. Team Jim Jam, raising funds for RSPCA ACT in memory of Jamie-Leigh Lynch, raised in excess of $13,500 – a wonderful achievement.
[Photo by PeterPaul]
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