Friends of the four-legged, furry kind with wagging tales and puppy breath will be out and about in Inverell this Sunday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Dogs of all different sizes, breeds and colours, and their owners are invited to the annual Million Paws Walk raising funds for the RSPCA.
Although online registrations have closed for the walk, local RSPCA branch members will be taking registrations at the markets from 9.30am.
Secretary Margaret Payne said a stall will be set up directly across from Big W in Campbell Park prior to the walk at 11am.
“The Million Paws Walk seems to be part of us now, this has to be at least the seventh year we’ve held it,” she said.
Margaret holds a special place in her heart for the walk.
“I’d always been a member but after participating in the walk I decided to become an active part of the Inverell branch,” she said.
As the RSPCA’s major fundraiser, the Million Paws Walk is a state wide event that happens on the same day in all locations with a local branch.
Before the walk this year, both Inverell vet clinics will complete animal checks to ensure all puppy dogs are in a fit, healthy condition.
Then, everyone will head out for the walk down Mansfield Street to Kamilaroi Park and back down and across the overhead bridge.
“For those who want to walk an extra two kilometres can go down to the guide hall and come back to the stand,” she said.
Once the walk is complete, this year’s best dressed dog will be crowned in two categories- small dog and large dog.
Owners are being urged to get creative with costume ideas!
“I’ve spoken to a couple who already have their costumes ready, some people are regular participants in the costume competition.”
Back at the market stall, there will be a barbecue and water available raising funds for a worthy cause- RSPCA.
The local branch is known for their desexing and vaccination programs for pensioners and low-income earners.
“We raise money to be able to give back to the community through those programs,” she said.
Inverell’s RSPCA branch hold their monthly meetings at 10am every third Saturday at the RSPCA pavilion at the showground.
“We’re always looking for new members for anyone who wants to provide assistance. Feel free to pop down early, grab a cup of tea and get settled in for the meeting.”
Sunday’s registration prices are $25 for a family, $15 per adult and $8 for children and concession card holders.