Jenny, President of the Association for Protection of Animals Algarve (APAA), has just completed another round of ‘white-vanning’. “It’s sometimes a priority list that takes over. The cats to the vet for sterilisation and check-over. Collect the food from one of the supermarkets. Stuff the van ready for a pop-up.”

Cheerfully Jenny has just returned from a quick break with friends. “I did wonder why there were so many cats and dogs around. Asking why they weren’t being sterilised.” But, records show that the locals in that region of North Africa treat cats especially, with respect because of their cleanliness.

Dogs are considered less clean and are less popular. Financially, sterilisation is not an option. The locals, it seems, go out of their way to keep the cats safe. Unfortunately during drought and famine, they were used for food, along with donkeys, large reptiles and insects. Luckily back in Portugal, Jenny reports.

“The year has been such a good one to us all at APAA”. Indeed the cat trapping, cat-colonies, rescuing abandoned dogs and raising money for their work has been extremely successful and rewarding. “The volunteers have been hard-working, whether out in the cold sunrise or hot sunset. Manning shops, pop-ups. Helping raise awareness. Washing dishes at our lunch events. Putting on amazing time-consuming mind-boggling charity shows.” Jenny pauses. “We do have a lot of members, who enjoy our events, pop-ups, and others who prefer a hands-on role. We need them all. Everyone, every member counts.”

Credits: Supplied Image;

Team APAA, have a wonderful diverse group of people, all nationalities and from all walks of life. “If you have some time on your hands, please think of us at APAA. In return we offer you regular fun-events to attend and opportunity to meet new people. New friends.” Without our members our animals would be in a very lonely sometimes dangerous place. Warm greetings from APAA their rescued furry friends, to you all. Every little helps. Help us help you.Trappers, shoppers, washer-uppers, pop-uppers, foster-parents, sponsors. Thank you!

Visit APAA Charity shops Dunas do Alvor: Mon-Sat10.30am–2pm Rua Elias Garcia 20,Silves:Mon-Fri 10am–2pm(Sat1pm) Silves. Real bargains. Christmas presents, hand-made jewellery, ornaments. Home-made chutneys, jams, marmalades, pickles and cookies. Everything you need for your home or rental. Spoil yourself!

Ferragudo Fair – Car-boot sale Every second Sunday 14 December and 11 January come and see the specials on offer… Good morning out 8-12 lots of places for refreshments.

Contacts: events.apaaportugal@gmail.com

Pets:info.apaaportugal@gmail.com (mark for Anita-Legacy) Legacy video : https://youtu.be/hNCdd5X-4XI *

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