Dog’s comeback from obesity inspires others to walk in May for animals.
She can now walk two kilometres without stopping, climb off the couch without help and fits through the doggy door. One step at a time, and with expert oversight and encouragement from an RSPCA inspector, Sophie the Staffordshire Terrier cross is recovering her mobility and her zest for life.
According to RSPCA South Australia’s Gemma Weedall, when it came to choosing an ambassador for the charity’s main annual fundraiser – – the congenial canine was a clear standout.
“Sophie has been through a lot in the past few months, and her journey back to fitness and a healthy weight is something we wanted to share with our supporters,” Ms Weedall said.
“She’s got her own , so anyone who wants to sponsor her can go to that and see the latest update on her progress, while making a donation to support other animals in RSPCA’s care.”
RSPCA’s Million Paws Walk is a national campaign, held each year in May. This year, SA’s dog lovers are encouraged to take on the , by committing to daily 30 minute walks with their furry friend throughout May, to raise funds to fight animal cruelty.
Ms Weedall acknowledged that some people would be disappointed at the decision not to stage a major event in SA this year. But with more than 1200 animals currently in RSPCA SA’s care (around half of them in supported foster care), the decision came down to the uncertain climate for events, and the fundamental need for the fundraiser to be successful. “We really rely on this annual campaign to provide a financial boost that gets us through the winter months,” Ms Weedall said. “Recent years have seen event numbers decline, expenses go up and a lot of uncertainty created by the Covid pandemic. “This has meant that hosting physical Million Paws Walk events in South Australia is not feasible in 2022.
“While we will miss seeing everyone at a major event, we are excited that the new format will allow more of our rescue dogs that might feel overwhelmed in big crowds, or anxious around other dogs, to be included in the fun!
“We look forward to seeing how our community get creative with the challenge, whether through the formation of workplace teams, hosting dog-meet up events in local areas – or getting behind our ambassadog Sophie’s journey.”
Tipping the scales at a whopping 53 kilos when she first came into RSPCA care eight weeks ago, four-year old Sophie is now down to 45 kilos – with another 20 kilos to go before she’s at her ideal weight. Her slow and steady comeback from dangerous obesity is thanks to the dedicated care of RSPCA SA inspector Stuart Thomas, a former personal trainer who has earned a reputation for helping dogs shed excess kilos.
SA’s dog lovers can sign up for Million Paws Walk .
Donate to support Sophie’s Million Paws Walk challenge .
