Sunshine Coast businesses rally behind Smart Pups’ “Wall of Paws” campaign

White's IGA Baringa staff and Smart Pup Banksy.

The Sunshine Coast community is showing its heart, with an outpouring of support for Smart Pups’ “Wall of Paws” fundraising campaign, now officially at the halfway point and running through to the end of Easter.

The initiative sees local businesses and venues display colourful “paw prints” purchased by customers, creating vibrant in-store displays while raising vital funds for assistance dogs. From small retailers to larger store networks, participation has been widespread across the region.

A standout in this year’s campaign has been the extraordinary involvement of IGA stores, with many locations going above and beyond to champion the cause. Their teams have actively engaged customers, helping drive strong sales and awareness within their communities.

Smart Pups is a Sunshine Coast-based charity that trains and places highly skilled assistance dogs with children living with disability and medical conditions including autism, epilepsy and diabetes. These dogs provide life-changing support by improving safety, reducing anxiety, preventing wandering and enabling greater independence both at home and in the community.

Each Smart Pup costs approximately $50,000 to train, making community fundraising initiatives like Wall of Paws essential to continuing the organisation’s work.

Over the past two weeks, the Smart Pups team has been visiting participating locations with some of their assistance dogs, meeting supporters and thanking staff in person.

“The enthusiasm we’ve seen has been incredible,” said Deb Donohoe, Smart Pups Relations Manager. “Businesses have really embraced the campaign, and the response from the public has been so positive. We’re especially grateful to the many IGA stores that have really led from the front.”

With the campaign now at its midpoint, Smart Pups is encouraging the community to keep the momentum going.

“There’s still time to get involved, purchase a $2 paw, and help us change the life of a child,” Deb said. “Every paw on the wall represents hope, independence and a brighter future for children with special needs.”

About Smart Pups

Smart Pups is a Sunshine Coast-based charity dedicated to training and placing assistance dogs with children living with disability and medical conditions. These highly skilled dogs provide safety, companionship and greater independence, making a lasting impact on the lives of children and their families.