Australia is in the middle of a pet homelessness crisis, and your daily dog walk could be part of the solution.
This September, join thousands of animal lovers across the country for Best Friends’ Walk, a free, national month-long walking challenge where every step raises funds and awareness for homeless pets.
Whether you’re walking solo, as a family, or with your fluffiest friend in tow, this isn’t just a feel-good fitness goal. It’s a chance to rewrite the future for pets who’ve been abandoned, surrendered, or forgotten.
And it all starts with one walk.
How Best Friends’ Walk Works
Best Friends’ Walk is a virtual walking challenge that runs throughout September 2025. You can take part from anywhere in Australia at any pace, with any walking buddy (two-legged or four).
Here’s how it works:
Register online for free at bestfriendswalk.com.au
Set your distance goal from 10km to 100km; it’s completely up to you
Create a fundraising page and share it with friends, family, coworkers, and fellow dog lovers
Walk your way through September solo, with your dog, or in a team
Track your progress and unlock exclusive rewards as you hit milestones
Celebrate your impact, knowing each dollar raised helps pets in crisis
Whether you’re walking around the backyard or hiking your favourite trail, every step helps raise funds to:
Give visibility to adoptable pets through PetRescue’s platform
Deliver urgent supplies like food and medical care to rescue partners
Support crisis pathways for pet owners facing rental insecurity or financial hardship
What’s Included When You Join
A downloadable welcome kit complete with tips, tools and pup-loving inspiration
Access to exclusive milestone rewards as you raise funds
Ongoing support and impact updates
That smug, happy glow of doing something good with your dog
This is more than a walk, it’s a lifeline.
Why This Challenge Matters in 2025
Last year alone, more than 72,000 pets were listed for adoption on PetRescue.
The reason? It’s not just about abandoned animals. Australia’s housing crisis, rising cost of living, and a lack of pet-friendly rentals are pushing people to make heartbreaking decisions. Many are forced to surrender pets they love simply because they have no other option.
And while 150 pets find homes each day through PetRescue, 274 adoptable pets are still being euthanised daily in pounds and shelters, often without ever being seen.
By joining Best Friends’ Walk, you’re shining a light on pets who might otherwise stay invisible.
Powered by Community and Proudly Supported by Bunnings
Bunnings is back for a second year, proudly supporting Best Friends’ Walk and helping drive change at scale.
And it’s not just big brands backing the cause. Schools, families, office teams, dog-walking groups, and communities across the country are walking together to raise funds and show their support.
Whether you’re signing up solo or forming a fundraising team, you’ll be joining a growing movement of everyday Aussies stepping up for animals in need.
Every Step Saves Lives
Every dollar. Every kilometre. Every doggy detour. It all adds up.
Join the walk that’s helping thousands of pets find homes, stay safe, and feel loved again. Together, we can build a future where no pet is left behind.
