It's time to strap a leash on the dog and walk in support of all animals, big and small. It's a chance to make a life-saving difference for all two-and four-legged friends.

The 2012 BC SPCA Paws for a Cause takes place at the Albion Fairgrounds on Sunday, Sept. 9 at 11 a.m. (registration at 10 a.m.)

"We are going to have live music, doggy games, 50/50 draw and raffle. It'll be lots of fun," said Mark Vosper, manager of the Maple Ridge SPCA shelter.

"It is difficult to predict how many people will show up. If the weather is good we hope to see 80 to 100," he added.

"We need to make it a success so we can help more animals in our community," Vosper explained.

Online pre-registration closes at the end of day on Sept. 6. Onsite registration will be available the day of the event but only preregistered participants will be able to collect online donations before, during, and after the walk. This year the BC SPCA hopes to raise $1 million for animals in need.

"The Scotiabank and BC SPCA Paws for a Cause walk is a fun way to get involved and make a huge impact in the lives of animals in need," said Farrah Rooney, manager of fundraising events at the BC SPCA.

"Our walks include food, fabulous prizes and lots of fun activities for our two and four-legged participants. The best part is that the funds raised help save the lives of thousands of abused, injured, neglected and homeless animals in B.C.," continued Rooney.

BC SPCA is a non-for-profit organization that relies on community support to carry out cruelty investigations, sheltering, and a wide range of services for more than 32,000 animals each year.

Those interested in getting involved in the Scotiabank and BC SPCA Paws for a Cause can join as an individual, as a group, or as a corporate team. The BC SPCA has set up a website at spca.bc.ca/walk, with sponsorship opportunities, fundraising ideas, pledge kits, posters, merchandise, and ways to volunteer.

smclaren@mrtimes.com