HUNDREDS of Sunshine Coast animal lovers and their dogs are expected to gather at Lake Kawana on Sunday, July 19, for a special Christmas in July fundraiser with the ‘Santa Paws Walk’ fundraiser taking place for 4 Paws Animal Rescue.

The family-friendly morning will feature a relaxed one-kilometre walk, market stalls, food trucks, Santa photos, competitions, demonstrations, raffles and community activities. All funds raised will go towards helping homeless cats and dogs across the Sunshine Coast.

Organisers are expecting plenty of four-legged participants, with festive costumes and wagging tails set to be a highlight of the day.

Funds raised on the day will help 4 Paws Animal Rescue continue providing care and support for vulnerable cats and dogs across the Sunshine Coast.

4 Paws President Julie Penlington said many of their pets were surrenders.

“They’re much-loved pets whose owners are facing difficult circumstances, whether that’s the rising cost of living, housing insecurity or rental challenges.

“Santa Paws gives the community a chance to come together, celebrate their love of animals and help ensure we can continue being there when pets and their owners need support. Whether you have a dog or not, we’d love to see you there.”

Santa Paws Walk in the Park will be held from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm on Sunday, July 19, at Lake Kawana, Sportsmans Pde (opposite Sunshine Coast Stadium), Bokarina.  
 
Community entry is free, with walk registrations costing $10 per dog. 
 
4 Paws Animal Rescue is a 100 per cent volunteer-run organisation that rescues and re-homes cats and dogs across the Sunshine Coast.