Hundreds of dogs out for RSPCA million paws walk

Dogs big and small hit the grass for RSPCA million paws walk in Hobart to raise vital funds to support the charity. Check out the photos.

Elise Kaine

@elise_kaine

less than 2 min read

May 26, 2024 - 4:30PM

Casey and Debra Davies with Ruby during the Million Paws Walk at the Domain. Picture: Chris Kidd

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Matching in robes with her owners, Ruby the Kelpie walked in her first Hobart Million Paws Walk.

Ruby has a neurological condition that affects her balance and makes it difficult for her to walk.

“Now she’s on medication she’s much better and we get to take her on walks all the time,” Ruby’s owner Debra Davies said.

Pam Jacobson and Poppy after the Million Paws Walk at the Domain. Picture: Chris Kidd

Padfoot after the Million Paws Walk at the Domain. Picture: Chris Kidd

Ruby was born at the same time as the Ruby Princess COVID-19 outbreak.

“She’s our Covid baby, she’s our Ruby Princess,” Mrs Davies said.

At RSPCAs Million Paws walk Ruby was joined by nearly 300 other dogs as they went on a 2km walk around Queens Domain.

Walkers take off at the Million Paws Walk at the Domain. Picture: Chris Kidd

Million Paws Walk at the Domain. Picture: Chris Kidd

RSPCA volunteer co-ordinator Elizabeth Parsons said it was “amazing” to see so many people and dogs all getting along.

Some of the money raised will go towards funding the RSPCA’s safe beds program.

The safe beds program allows anyone fleeing family or domestic violence to give their animal to the RSPCA to find safe interim foster care.

Emily Green and Mischa before the Million Paws Walk at the Domain. Picture: Chris Kidd

“Instead of having to choose between staying somewhere they are not safe to make sure their animal is okay and leave to go get help and leave their animals behind- they give their animals to us and we look after them until their owners are back on their feet,” Ms Parsons said.

“That could be anywhere from two weeks through to 12 months.”

Another portion of money raised will help with refurbishing their main shelter.

“There is a lot of work that goes into doing what we do,” Ms Parsons said.