The SPCA will hold the annual Tim Howick-Smith Thousand Paw Walk today to raise awareness on animal welfare and cruelty prevention while fundraising for rescue and desexing programmes.
SPCA Clinic and Shelter Manager Shaneel Narayan says the event is held every year in remembrance of Tim Howick-Smith, who supported the organisation for more than 30 years.
Narayan says the walk is not just about fundraising but also about raising awareness on animal welfare, cruelty prevention, rescue efforts, desexing, and responsible pet ownership.
He says most of the funds will be raised through pet registrations for the walk and participation in various pet show categories, with prizes awarded to winners.
According to Narayan, there has been a rise in animal cruelty cases reported to the SPCA in recent months.
He describes it as a worrying trend and urges members of the public to report any form of abuse to shelters or the police.
Funds raised will go towards SPCA’s community desexing clinics, outreach programmes in rural and informal settlements, rescue operations, and subsidised veterinary services for the public.
Narayan adds that even those without pets are welcome to attend todays event, as there will also be food stalls and family-friendly activities for everyone to enjoy while supporting SPCA’s cause.
The annual Tim Howick-Smith 1000 Paw Walk starts at 9am at Albert Park today.
