People and pooches alike are set to hit the footpath in Eildon on Sunday, May 20, for the town’s 6th annual RSPCA Million Paws Walk.

Eildon is the smallest town in Victoria to host the event, which raises funds for the RSPCA.

Mark Howard of Eildon Real Estate is the Volunteer Coordinator for the event and he said between 250-350 people normally participate in the walk – and that’s not counting all the paws.

“The walk around the pondage takes about an hour but there’s always much more going on than just the walk.

“This year Virginia Trioli from ABC News Breakfast will be walking with her dog ‘Bunk’, plus participants can enjoy an opening address on animal care from Alexandra veterinarian Doug Norman. And that’s not to mention the door prizes donated by local businesses.

Murrindindi Shire Council Mayor Charlotte Bisset said the Million Paws Walk is a wonderful event which raises essential funds for an important cause.

“Council has worked closely with the RSPCA for many years, so we really appreciate the organisation’s role in promoting and enforcing animal welfare.

“In fact, Council’s latest records show an estimated 3179 dogs call Murrindindi Shire home, interestingly only 2611 are currently registered. This makes the Million Paws Walk in Eildon not only the “purrfect” opportunity to celebrate all our local dog residents, but also a chance to open the conversation between pet owners and Council.

“We will have Local Laws officers at the Eildon event, so please feel free to have a chat with them about any aspects of animal management in the Shire,” Cr Bisset added.

“And don’t forget, if you haven’t already done so, to renew your pet’s Council Registration which was due on April 10. Reminder letters will be sent to those with overdue registrations and our Local Laws team will also undertake random doorknocks to ensure people comply with their registration requirements.

For more information or to register for the RSPCA Million Paws Walk see www.millionpawswalk.com.au. Event registration prices start at $17 for adults with discounts available for children, concession-holders and families.