Help us feed and care for abandoned animals in the Algarve
2025 has so far brought an unprecedented wave of abandoned animals to Cadela Carlota in Lagos. More than 40 puppies have already come into our care this year – and sadly, this number grows by the week. Just recently, a tiny dog was found in a trash can in Espiche – one more case among many.
Stories like this are becoming heartbreakingly common. Dogs dumped in rubbish bins, left in the bush, or simply abandoned on the roadside are no longer rare. This is a direct result of many people still refusing to sterilise their animals. The result: unwanted litters born into suffering, and shelters struggling to cope.
The costs of caring for so many animals are substantial. Each month, Cadela Carlota spends an average of €630 on dog food, €640 on cat food, and around €300 on cat litter – on top of veterinary expenses, sterilisation, and shelter upkeep.
That is why the Banco Solidário Animal (BSA) campaign is so vital to our work.
June 28-29: Banco Solidário Animal (BSA) food collection
The BSA, organised by Lisbon-based Animalife, partners with supermarkets across Portugal to collect essential food and supplies for animals in need. These campaigns not only help feed animals in our shelter but also support street colonies and families facing hardship – helping to prevent further abandonment in our community.
Last year, Cadela Carlota took part in seven BSA events, collecting more than 3,300 kg of dog food and 1,800 kg of cat food – a lifeline that allows us to continue rescuing and caring for animals.
We now need your help again. On June 28 and 29, we will be collecting at Continente Lagos and Continente Odiáxere. Because we are covering two locations, more volunteers than ever are needed.
Shifts are three hours, between 9am and 9pm, with two volunteers per shift (ideally one Portuguese speaker per team).
Volunteer at the shelter too!
Beyond food drives, we always welcome volunteers at our shelter. If you can help to walk dogs, brush and groom the animals, or simply spend time with them, we would love to hear from you. Our shelter is open to volunteers on Saturday and Sunday mornings, 8am to 12 noon.
Every shift and every donated item helps us keep up the fight against abandonment – and gives vulnerable animals a second chance.
To get involved:
info@cadela-carlota.com
www.cadela-carlota.com
