Media releases

A former printing house on the city’s increasingly vibrant west side is the venue chosen for RSPCA South Australia’s Next Top Pet event, taking place on Sunday March 3.

According to RSPCA SA Event Organiser Kate Jones, the Published ArtHouse – located behind the Publisher’s Hotel on Franklin Street – is perfect for the fun-filled afternoon.

“As soon as we walked into this beautifully restored historic space we knew our search was over,” Ms Jones said.

“The building dates back to 1914 and while many of its original features have been preserved, it has this edgy urban graffiti art that gives it a hip contemporary feel – ideal for the high energy, uplifting event we’re going to stage there.

“Combined with our celebrity MC and judging panel, we have the perfect lures for pet owners who like to fill social media posts with images of their adored pets.

“If that sounds like you, then this is the contest for you!”

Now in its third year, RSPCA SA’s Next Top Pet competition is a spinoff from the Next Top Model concept – the main difference being the entrants usually have four legs rather than two.

The contest requires pet owners to show off not only their pets but also their online networking skills as they persuade friends, family and complete strangers to support their bid to be top fund-raisers. A winning strategy is to capture and post very appealing photos of pets.

The top 10 fundraisers will have the opportunity to walk the catwalk with their animals and possibly be crowned Adelaide’s Next Top Pet.

Ms Jones described the contest as “a win-win”.

“You get to show off your no-doubt spoilt fur-baby while raising vital funds for all the less fortunate animals in our care.”

The event’s Master of Ceremonies will be Channel 7 personality and RSPCA SA Ambassador Amelia Mulcahy. This year’s panel of celebrity judges includes another RSPCA SA Ambassador and Aussie Dog Guy Ryan Anderson. (The identities of two other celebrity judges are still to be confirmed – watch this space!)

Prior to the parade – due to start at 4.30pm – those coming along can enjoy live music, dance performances, prizes, pet related stalls and free give aways for your furry friend, plus more.

Join in the fun

Go to nexttoppet.com.au. Sign up, and we recommend you take an Instagram worthy snap of your future star and then post it together with some words explaining why you think your pet deserves the title of Adelaide’s Next Top Pet.

Next, and most importantly, ask your friends, family and colleagues to support your pet’s rise to fame. Share your fundraising page on social media using the hashtag #nexttoppet, or send them an email using one of our email templates.

And it’s always good to kick off your fund-raising campaign by making the first donation yourself! Once you raise your first $20 you’ll receive a pawsonalised pet bandanna – the perfect accessory for your furry friend to wear on the cat walk if you are among the top 10 fundraisers.

DATE: Sunday 3^rd March 2019

TIME: – Doors open at 3pm. Parade begins at 4.30pm

LOCATION: Publishers ArtHouse – 11 Cannon Street, Adelaide

(behind Publisher’s Hotel on Franklin Street)