Network Ireland Kilkenny launches charity event with KSPCA

Network Ireland Kilkenny has announced Kilkenny SPCA (KSPCA) as its charity partner for 2025, launching a month-long NETWALK Challenge in October to raise awareness and vital funds for the animal welfare charity.

The initiative will culminate in a community dog walk coinciding with Savour Kilkenny's Madra Monday on October 27. The organisation is inviting the public and their VIPs (very important pets) to support the initiative.

Kilkenny SPCA has faced significant financial challenges in recent years. The animal welfare charity relies entirely on volunteers and donations to fund its work.

Lucie Dowling, Vice President of Network Ireland Kilkenny, is also a volunteer with the animal welfare charity. Ms Dowling explains, "Many people mistakenly believe the Kilkenny SPCA is government-funded. Everything we do, from rescuing animals to sheltering them, covering vet bills, kennels, even the ‘man in the van’ is funded purely by donations and volunteer work. That’s why fundraising and awareness are so vital.

Through this partnership, we want to spread the message further, beyond our own network, so that more people understand the life-saving work KSPCA carries out in our community every day.”

Kilkenny SPCA is a voluntary organisation committed to improving the welfare of all animals, domestic and wild. Its work includes inspecting reported cases of cruelty and advising Gardaí, providing shelter for distressed animals, including wildlife, and helping to rehome and reunite lost animals.

Kilkenny SPCA subsidises neutering schemes and promotes education and responsible pet ownership. The charity receives no government funding and is sustained solely through community donations, fundraisers, and volunteer support.

Paw-sitive steps in the NETWALK Challenge

Throughout October, members of Network Ireland Kilkenny will participate in a sponsored walking challenge with their pets. Each participant has an iDonate profile raising vital funds for KSPCA through their own networks.

The fundraising campaign will close with a community dog walk, setting off at 11 am from Wild Tails on Canal Walk on Monday, October 27.

Network Ireland Kilkenny is inviting the public and their furry friends to join them on a 40-minute walk to the Bandstand (near Quarry Bridge). The events will feature a free “how to train your dog” session and training tips from the KSPCA. A raffle will be held during the event, with a custom pet portrait by Sandra Blanchfield as the top prize.

“Every step counts,” concluded Dowling. “The NETWALK is about connecting people, businesses, and animal lovers while supporting an important local charity. Please join us on Madra Monday or consider donating online to support KSPCA’s vital work.”

For more information, visit iDonate or follow @networkirelandkilkenny