Inspired by Dr Cam Day (the RSPCA Queensland's Operations Manager and Veterinarian at that time), the Million Paws Walk was inaugurated in Queensland in 1994.

While being a fun day out for pets and their owners, the Million Paws Walk also promotes responsible pet ownership and raises much-needed funds for the RSPCA in Queensland.

The potential to raise over one million dollars for disadvantaged animals was also recognize. One of the aims was to multiply the financial benefits to the RSPCA by owners gathering sponsorship for their pets. The Walk went 'national' in 1996, when RSPCA Victoria held the first walk outside Queensland. RSPCA Victoria also sought corporate sponsorship that year and Hills Science Diet showed a truly generous spirit by becoming the major sponsor for the event.

Hills (Pet Food) remain the major sponsor to this day.