Paws A’plenty Expected On SPCA Walk

ROYAL NEW ZEALAND SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS

For release: 21 February 2007

Paws A’plenty Expected On SPCA Walk

The SPCA is inviting both dogs and humans to join in New Zealand’s first ever ‘Million Paws Walk’.

The walk, scheduled for Sunday 18th March, is to take place at five separate venues around the country, including Auckland, Gisborne, Nelson, Rotorua and Waihi.

“Our aim is to celebrate the special bond that exists between the human and canine members of families and to provide an opportunity to enjoy the company of other dogs and dog lovers,” says the Royal New Zealand SPCA’s National Chief Executive, Robyn Kippenberger.

“This will also be an occasion for people to signal their support for the SPCA’s work on behalf of New Zealand’s animals. And it will be an opportunity to raise funds for the SPCA through sponsorship for each kilometre covered on the walk,” she says.

The walks will vary in length from one to five kilometres, with most venues providing refreshments, displays and entertainment, as well as the opportunity to win spot prizes. The cost of entry for each dog stands at just $10.00, with any number of human companions permitted to join their canine friend for free.

Entry is limited to dogs that are fully vaccinated, non-aggressive, in good health and on a lead. Accompanying humans are asked to bring food and water for the dog, as well as bags for cleaning up any messes.

“You can register your dog for the walk by visiting our special website, www.millionpawswalk.org.nz. You can also download sponsorship forms from the site or follow the link to create your own personal online fundraising page. All funds raised by the event will go to the local SPCA in the locality of the walk, unless otherwise requested.

“As this is our first such event and as it is not yet being held in every locality in New Zealand, we don’t expect to have literally a million paws walking this time round.

“But we do think that dog-loving New Zealanders will take to the Million Paws Walk and come out in increasing numbers as it becomes more established. After all, there can be few nicer ways to spend a few hours on a Sunday than walking with dogs and the families who love them,” Robyn adds.

The Million Paws Walk is being generously sponsored by Hill’s Pet Nutrition.

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