The RSPCA has made the difficult decision to hang up the leash on their national Million Paws Walk fundraising event due to cost-of-living pressures and a dramatically changed fundraising landscape since the pandemic.
After three decades of community supporters coming together to fight animal cruelty through the Million Paws Walk, RSPCA Queensland will be hosting their last Million Paws Walk in Noosa on Sunday 25 May.
With the help of up to 1.6 million paws – that’s 400,000 super pooches – and more than 750,000 superhumans, RSPCA’s iconic Million Paws Walk has raised a phenomenal $17 million for animals in need over its 30-year history.
In those 30 years, the event has brought joy and much needed funding to vital RSPCA services to care for tens of thousands of animals every year.
RSPCA Queensland spokesperson Emma Lagoon said, “This was not a decision we took lightly.”
“However, the financial strain on animal lovers and increasing event costs has meant Million Paws Walk is no longer able to provide what it once could to the community while also effectively fundraising for much-needed RSPCA services.
“The RSPCA feels it best to channel resources directly to support the animals in our care, and ensure every dollar donated to our cause supports the critical services and care that have become increasingly costly to provide.”
RSPCA’s Million Paws Walk final event in 2025 will be one of great significance and reflection.
The national fundraising campaign has been instrumental in drawing animal lovers across the country together to raise much needed funds for animals less fortunate than their own.
“All of us at the RSPCA would like to thank our superhumans and superpooches that have pounded the pavement with us over the last three decades, as well as the thousands of staff and volunteers that have made our event possible year in and out,” Ms Lagoon said.
“Thanks ‘a million’ for being a part of our wonderful life-changing history!
“The RSPCA couldn’t achieve what we do each and every day without your compassionate, generosity and fun spirit.”
The RSPCA encourages everyone to step up as a superhero for animals in need and get involved for the final ‘walkies’ in May, as they bid farewell to their iconic event.
“While it will be sad to see our much-loved event go, let’s make this last lap the biggest and best event showcasing your love for all creatures great and small!”
Ticket sales are on sale at www.millionpawswalk.com.au today.
