Not enough, it would seem, as catastrophic numbers of feral felines and abandoned canines fill their ever-full seams.

Jenny Clarke, President of the Association for the Protection of Animals Algarve, has nothing but praise for them and their ‘helpers’. “We’re knocked out by the number of people who just do their bit, without any praise, they just get on with it.” Indeed, ‘Here to Help’ is APAA’s motto, and it is their helpers who take the workload off very weary shoulders.

Author: APAA;

“True, at times we don’t know where to turn, and hey presto, someone turns up!” Recent abandonees such as ‘Amigo’ are finding their way to Cadela Carlota. “A lady called Ani has turned up and, with a huge bag of KONG full of goodies, is helping him readjust. Liz is feeding our abandoned girl outside of Odelouca. And, Gabi, dear girl, is looking after a feral feline who has a bacterial infection in her bathroom. The cat that is!” Ah yes. “We have a dog outside of Silves Prison, starved and needing care no doubt, but apparently belongs to the gypsy encampment. Members of Facebook have taken an interest and are keeping an eye out.”

Jenny knows there are people who want to help but are unable financially to go the extra mile. “Food and vet fees costs, we know! But we are willing to help anyone who has an abandoned animal on their doorstep or in the village. It makes sense that if we can do that at street level, it will take care of a lot of problems.” Catching an animal and sterilising it to return it to the street is not uncommon. As long as the animal has had a good veterinary inspection, sterilised if need be, and is in a place where it can get food, it all helps. Our helpers come in all shapes and sizes, and we can only thank them for helping us!

APAA’s ‘Summer Party’ raises money for SNiP, and in exchange, there is an exciting afternoon of fun. Sunday 7 June 1400-1700 pm ‘Taberna do Sol’, Praia da Rocha. Comedy, sketches, a fashion show, and a luxury picnic lunch. Paid bar with cocktails and drinks: 25€ pp. Only 70 places. Book now! Contact: show.apaaportugal@gmail.com or 919041903 for tickets.

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

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

Pets:info.apaaportugal@gmail.com (Mark Anita for ‘Legacy for Pets’)

Please check out APAA’s Facebook!