With the current COVID-19 restrictions, the annual Ipswich Show will not be opening its gates physically this year.
Thankfully, the Pet Parade will go on…Virtually.
Ipswich Hospital Foundation has teamed up with the Ipswich Show Society to bring the very first Virtual Pet Parade to our community.
Entry for your pets, whether they be dogs, cats, birds, fish, horses, rats, you name it, is now open and FREE.
To enter, simply submit a picture of your pet and share how they have helped you and your wellbeing through the COVID-19 restrictions at www.ihfoundation.org.au/pet_parade/
This event is raising awareness of the therapeutic benefits animals can have on mental health.
Plus, all money raised during the event will go towards putting more Therapy Dogs into Hospitals across the West Moreton Health region.
James Sturges, Ipswich Hospital Foundation CEO says, “Therapy Dogs bring smiles and joy to patients, family and staff at West Moreton Hospitals.
“Therapy Dogs have a paws-itive impact on social, emotional, and physiological health, improving quality of life and overall well-being” Mr Sturges said.
Ipswich Hospital Foundation is urging the community to get behind the Pet Parade and help raise funds to place more Therapy Dogs into our Hospitals.
“Even a $5 donation, less than the cost of a showbag, will all add up to getting more paws to shake and creating smiles on our patients’ faces” Mr Sturges said.
Dani Lee, Ipswich Resident (pictured) is entering her Neapolitan Mastiff, Kuda (pictured) into the Pet Parade.
“Kuda has really helped during the restrictions, she’s always has a happy face and brings endless love to the whole family. I am not sure what I would do without a furry friend especially during the last few months” Ms Lee said.
Thanks to the great support of event sponsors, the finalists will be live-streamed and the winners will take home an official Show Society Ribbon, Best Friends Pets Vouchers and a ‘pawsome’ Hamper from The Golden Bone Bakery.
To enter your pet, make a donation and to find out more, visit the Ipswich Hospital Foundation’s Website or direct link to www.ihfoundation.org.au/pet_parade/
