They say “every dog has its day” and here on the Tweed Coast that day was Sunday in Jack Bayliss Park.
Every man (woman and child) and their dog was out and about for the fifth annual Tweed Shire RSPCA Million Paws Walk.
Tweed Shire RSPCA Adoption Centre spokesperson Nikki Balzer was very pleased with the event.
“We had a great day and were blessed with awesome weather,” she said.
“Our initial attendance figures for the Walk are about 410 dogs and 600 people, (about 200 more people than we had in 2011, and about 50 more dogs).
“I guess the increased numbers are a testment to the type of family orientated, enjoyable day we put on.
“Having lots of givaways, great music and an organised MC helps too.”
Sponsored by 100% Pets and the Coolangatta Pet Motel, dogs of all shapes and sizes, breeds and colours took their favourite humans for either a five- or two-km walk through the park and along the beach.
And of course there was plenty of fun for the whole family, with entertainment by The Lissy Stanton Band, as well as displays, stalls, sausage sizzle, cupcakes, giveaways, a dog demonstration and a visit by Big Dog.
There were competitions for dog/owner look-alike, best dressed dog, fastest feeder, best trick and the ever popular Musical Sit. All the winners of these competitions received a great prize worth over $70.
As well as being a fun day out, the main purpose of the event is to raise funds to support the daily battle against animal cruelty.
“The Million Paws Walk fundraising gives the RSPCA the opportunity to provide information and education about important, yet overlooked, animal welfare issues,” says RSPCA NSW CEO Steve Coleman.
Local vets supplied the RSPCA with a number of vouchers for free/ heavily discounted services up for grabs in an auction before the walk and there were plenty of sample bags and free goodies for the happy pooches.
Maggie Anne of BAM Promotions kept the day running smoothly as MC for the day, with a little help from her furry friend Chardie!
