Every year, one of our favourite events at the local shows across West Moreton is the Pet Parade.
However, due to the restrictions currently in place for COVID-19, all annual shows in the West Moreton region aren’t going ahead.
Thankfully, the Pet Parade will go on…Virtually.
We’ve teamed up with show societies from all across the region to bring the Virtual Pet Parade.
With entrants from Ipswich, Esk, Boonah, Toogoolawah, Lowood, Kalbar, Rosewood, Laidley, and Gatton, this year’s parade is sure to be one of the biggest and most memorable yet.
Due to the unknown and unexpected challenges for businesses, communities and organisations everywhere, Queensland Chief Entrepreneur is celebrating organisations who are pivoting, persevering and even pirouetting through COVID-19 and has made special mention of our efforts to bring the community together during this challenging time.
Leanne Kemp, Founder and CEO of Everledger and Queensland Chief Entrepreneur says, “Anyone who has ever loved a pet knows how amazing animals can be in our lives. They love unconditionally, they are there through good and bad, and even when they’re in the naughty corner, they can still tug the heartstrings with a cute look!
“I was excited to hear that this year’s parade could still go ahead with the Virtual Pet Parade. It’s a genius way to bring our communities together in a new, virtual way and still experience the fun and connectivity that comes from the traditional parade.
“Research shows that looking at cute pet pics stimulates the brain to be calmer and even improves our attention and focus, so while we can’t all get together in person while COVID19 continues, we can still benefit from the Virtual Pet Parade and the incredible way pets help us.
“I’m looking forward to seeing pets from all across Queensland being celebrated for how they’ve helped during the restrictions whether it be as assistance or therapeutic pet or a much-loved part of the family,” Ms Kemp said.
The Pet Parade is not only celebrating pets, it is also raising awareness of the therapeutic benefits animals can have on mental health too.
Plus, all money raised during the events will go towards putting more Therapy Dogs into Hospitals across the West Moreton Health region.
James Sturges, CEO of IHF 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.
“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.
If you want a chance to show off and celebrate all that your best friend does for you (and really, who doesn’t?!) entering is simple!
Visit the Virtual Pet Parade and upload a photo of your dog, cat, bird, fish, horse, rat or all of the above and let us know how they have helped you and your wellbeing during COVID-19.
