Get a perfect pet portrait at the 1000 Paws Walk
Hundreds of dog owners will head to Highgate Wine Estate in the KZN Midlands the help raise money for three local SPCAs.
Dog lovers attending the much-anticipated 1000 Paws Walk for SPCAs event at Highgate Wine Estate on Sunday, June 7, will be able to capture a truly special memory with their furry companions, thanks to local
photographer Jennifer Miller from The Dragon Mill studio.
She will be setting up a unique pop-up studio, offering commemorative pet-and-owner portraits in support of the event.
Pet parents can get a professional colour portrait for just R40 per A5 print — the perfect keepsake from a day dedicated to celebrating and supporting animals.
Portrait sessions will take place between 9.30am and 10.30am only, so attendees are encouraged to arrive early to avoid missing out on this limited one-hour experience.
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Miller’s gazebo studio will be conveniently located near the SPCA refreshment tent, making it easy for
walkers and supporters to stop by, smile for the camera, and create a lasting memory with their beloved companions.
Whether your dog is gorgeously goofy, glamorous or full of personality, this is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the special bond between your pets and their people — all while supporting the vital work of the Mooi River & District, uMngeni, and Pietermaritzburg SPCAs.
The walks open at 8am, and visitors may take their time and start whenever they want. Choose the shorter, easier 2km Puppies and Pensioner route around the vineyards, or the more challenging 4km Adults and Athletes route that loops around the Highgate/Piggy Wiggly property.
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Bring your leash, your smile, and put your best paw forward!
Entry is R50 per adult and R20 per dog (kids under 12 free).
For further information about 1000 Paws 2026, contact Gaynor Lawson of the 1000 Paws Walk planning committee on 082 558 8928 or via email at [email protected]
PROGRAMME OF EVENTS
8am – gates open and walks open.
8.30am – Clifton Prep Marimba Band performance.
9am – arena events begin (R10 per entry).
9.45am – Dancing With Dogs display by Jeanne Schutte and Riley.
10am – Precious Pups competition (puppies up to six months).
10.15am – Clifton Prep Marimba Band performance.
10.30am – Terrific Teens competition (dogs aged six to 18 months).
10.45am – Awesome Adult Dog competition (dogs aged 18 months to seven years).
11am – Golden Oldies competition (dogs aged eight years and older).
11.15am – Owner and Dog Look-a-like competition (owners may dress up to resemble their dogs, but dogs may only wear regular dog gear).
11.30am – Most Special Rescue Dog competition (open to dogs from any recognised rescue organisation apart from the SPCA).
11.45am – SPCA Champion Dog competition (open to dogs adopted from any SPCA).
12 noon – K9 Academy Demonstration and Sniffer Dog Paper Plate Challenge. Win a luxury stay at Cleopatra’s Mountain Farmhouse.
12.30pm – 1000 Paws raffle draw for a range of amazing prizes.
2pm – end of event.
