Association for the Protection of Animals Algarve (APAA) is luckily on the Portimão Câmara’s annual list solely for their Sterilising Programme (SNiP), it works and is costly when cat-colonies are the prime target. “We also have a wonderful network called ‘Animalife’, which provides care and assistance to families with animals who cannot afford to pay vet bills, and associations that desperately need help with feeding abandoned animals and cat colonies. Jenny’s van is often full of food donated to APAA and spread amongst the community’s most needy. Small shelters and charities that are bursting at the seams.

“We find that networking amongst the charities is helpful, one bag of food one week, and a new 4-pawed lodger in need of a home the next in exchange!” All the associations survive on charity, and it has to have limits. “We receive grants from DPDSAA, but we have to handle the money on behalf of the public who need it the most.”

Jackie, APAA’s treasurer, has had several grants, administering them with her eagle eye. “It isn’t only APAA who benefits from donations and money it receives from events and pop-up shops, it is the entire Algarve community, no borders!” For obvious reasons, one charity in the Tavira area is not able to help with an emergency in Lagos.” It just cannot work over that distance. But helping each other with food, goodwill and practical help is essential for the entire community.

“The cat problem is huge and will not disappear. We, along with the others on Sterilisation Programmes, have been trying to reduce the numbers for some 20 years or more. Education helps in schools. Providing communities with block bookings for cats to be collected for sterilisation at a restaurant or café works well. An enormous furry mountain to conquer!” Checking up on ‘Amigo’ at Cadela Carlota, where he has been given VIP treatment. Jenny found Ani, “…a next-door neighbour, hand feeding treats to the young chap in rehab… lucky fellow!” Indeed, thanks to all the donations to help him out!

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. Clothing. Everything you need for your home or rental. All proceeds raised for SNiP and Abandoned animals. Having a clear-out? Think APAA.

Triple Charity Auction Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/802464032320020

www.Animalife.pt

Jackie’s lunches & all events: events.apaaportugal@gmail.comPets:info.apaaportugal@gmail.com (Mark Anita for ‘Legacy for Pets’)

Please check out APAA’s Facebook!