A canine bow-wow or even a kitty or two
Lucky for some of our furry friends, there are special ladies waiting in the shadows to come forward with a helping hand.
‘Here to Help’ is the Association for Protection of Animals Algarve’s motto. “But sometimes, even we need help!” Jenny Clarke, APAA president, has vast experience on the subject. “When we have a crisis, then APAA knows who their real friends and supporters are.” Indeed.
Volunteer Zélia Santos had died rather suddenly, leaving a huge hole in the association’s workforce and hearts. And her private menagerie. “She couldn’t say ‘no’ to a homeless animal,” Jenny smiles. “Unfortunately for us all when the big fickle finger of fate strikes, it is our family, friends and neighbours who have to stand up to the plate.”
Whether or not people are prepared for their last moment on this earth is up to each individual. Judging people is not what this is about. “Fate. Dratted word, but it unfortunately is the master or mistress of all!” So, when the team had to deal with the fall-out, they found friends in strange places.
Three special cats fostered by Zélia had cancer, but now they have found sanctuary, thanks to Corinna from the Carvoeiro Cat Charity. Ruth at Cadela Carlota took one of the younger dogs. “Other wonderful ladies, we’ve already mentioned. And there will be more to follow.” No doubt.
In the meantime. APAA’s work still continues. “Wanda, our new help-line lady, had a call from Lydia. Wasn’t too sure how to handle the case.” A senior gentleman in his 80s had been ill and died, leaving behind his beloved dog ‘Sabu’. The 12-year-old Alsatian-cross needed rehoming.
“The Alentejo is quite a distance in an emergency. João Ferreira, general manager at Animal Rescue Algarve, and APAA got ‘Sabu’ settled into ARA’s shelter at Cabanita in Loulé. Lydia had sufficient funds for the dog to be looked after, albeit temporarily, whilst waiting to be re-homed.
ARA’s ‘Legacy for Pets’ has been gaining more confidence with pet owners; the problems of sudden illness or death and what happens to the ‘leftover pets’. Contact ARA for their ‘Legacy’ information pack. Individual service guaranteed.
Dates for your diary
- Monday, March 10 – ‘Pop-Up’ Shop at O Tasco restaurant, Senhora do Verde (Portimão), 12-3pm. Household goods, ornaments, jewellery, books, pet corner… Chicken piri-piri day. Book direct: 282 471 769.
- Saturday, March 22 – Mini-Pop-Up at Paul & Pasi’s special Wellbeing Charity Day, 11am-4pm, Portimão. Selection of treatments, €5 each! Booking essential: 910 665 601
- Every 2nd Sunday of the month – Ferragudo car-boot sales, 8am-12noon.Weather permitting!
Charity auctions: https://www.facebook.com/groups/594035701307971
Contact APAA: info.apaaportugal@gmail.com
Contact ARA: info@animalrescuealgarve.com
By APAA
