Paws for thought as pets get special treatment

Vet nurse Kim Szatkowski with her dog, Rufus. Picture: Joe Mastroianni

More than 200 dog lovers and their four-legged friends will be out for a stroll at Paws in the Park next week.

Paws in the Park typically draws about 250 participants and their pets to the family event, which kicks off at Gisborne Veterinary Clinic on November 8.

Practice manager Travis Grieve says the event has grown substantially in nine years.

“Paws in the Park started in October 2006 with about 80 participants and their dogs turning up for the morning,” he said.

“The initial reasoning in setting the event up was to help promote correct pet health in the Macedon Ranges shire and raise funds for the various not-for-profit organisations.

“Over the past 10 years, the event has been organised by the Gisborne Veterinary Clinic’s staff, with many local businesses donating their time or products for various aspects of the walk,” Mr Grieve said.

The day’s activities will include information stalls set up by the Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network and Seeing Eye Dogs Australia, pet photo booths, raffles, entertainment and food.

Dental checks and nail trimming will also be offered by vets from the Gisborne clinic for a gold coin donation.

Mr Grieve said Paws in the Park had raised as much as $22,000 in the past.

“The ultimate goal for the future of this event is to grow the day, to incorporate many different aspects of the human-animal bond,” Mr Grieve said.

“And also create a platform for promoting best animal care and awareness of the plight of wildlife surrounding our communities.”

Registrations open at 9am for a 10am start. More details: www.gisbornevets.com.au