Boiling an onion in milk to stave off a cold or cure one. Cod liver oil. Garlic. Cloves in stewed apples. Honey. The list is endless. The modern world is now full of these old-fashioned remedies. Becoming Theee-thing! Facing a cold, wet, windy, almost harsh winter for the Algarve, we and our pets need as much of a magic wand as humans.

For our older furry friends, joints are likely the main problem and staying longer on that cosy, comfy couch does not help. Belting rain and storming winds mean fewer walks, rushing in and out in between one bluster and another. Food requirements change, hot, nourishing and hopefully healthy. Both humans and pets can share the winter pick-me-ups. A drizzle of good-quality olive or fish oil. Sprinkling garlic and a good multi-vitamin powder over the food. Or holding nose and downing in one? Honey is a great helper for the immune system, too.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: APAA;

Jenny, President of the Association for the Protection of Animals Algarve (APAA), is back on the cat-trail, having been awarded a grant for their SNiP (Spaying & Neutering Programme). The private feral cat colony outside Odiaxere, run by a German lady, is receiving help. “Two pregnant cats were the top of the list. The remaining 18 or so follow!” There are more feral cats than euros to cover the costs. They must be fed, checked, and receive veterinary care. A lot of work and energy go into managing cat colonies. “We’ve also acquired four more transport boxes and a drop-trap for cats. There’s always room for a helper, anyone interested in nature, cat lovers, with spare time, we are always looking for volunteers. Last year, we recruited three additional women to perform trapping and cat colony management. We are helping newcomers to look after their own community as well!”

Festival and Chinese Year of the Horse, 17th February (Fiery Red Horse). A year of action, decision and movement!

APAA’s first 2026 ‘Pop Up’ shop. Make sure you mark up your diary. The ‘Jolly’ Bar Alvor (Nr. Camping site). Friday 27th February 11am-2.00pm. Bring and buy! Ornaments, jewellery, household goods. With Gill Goode and her wonderful paintings, posters and cards. Fiona’s Feline fashion/make-up and jewellery collections.

Visit APAA Charity shops, Dunas do Alvor: Mon-Sat 10.30 am–2pm, Rua Elias Garcia 20, Silves: Mon-Fri 10am–2pm (Sat 1 pm), Silves. Real bargains. Books, gifts. Hand-made jewellery, ornaments. Home-made chutneys, jams, marmalades, pickles and cookies. Glassware, dinner services, cutlery. Everything you need for your home or rental. Spoil yourself! All proceeds raised for SNiP and Abandoned animals. Having a clear-out? Good, unwanted gifts, and clothes are always needed. Bring, Browse and Buy!

Jackie’s lunches: events.apaaportugal@gmail.com

Pets:info.apaaportugal@gmail.com Pet Plan ‘Legacy’ mark for Anita

Always Check out APAA’s Facebook!