Tauranga dog owners and their four legged friends have joined the fight to end animal abuse, abandonment and neglect.

Droves of keen supporters gathered at Fergusson Park today, to take part in a dog walking event with a purpose.

The event has been a fundraising initiative as part of SPCA's Walk Your Dog to the Moon challenge - which sees Kiwis across the country uniting to walk the equivalent distance from the earth to the moon in a bid to raise money for abused, neglected and abandoned animals.

Eleven walking events are being hosted throughout the country this weekend in the hopes of raising $150,000, and these are just one of many ways dogs and their parents can show their support for the cause.

Those wanting to come on board can do so by registering interest online. A $12 registration fee applies to each participant.

Upon registration each participant is given a doggy pedometer to track their steps, along with a doggy bandana and a welcome pack.

SunLive photographer Nikki South has been at today's event: