A person’s disability can be obvious, barely visible, or hidden. A visually impaired person may need the assistance of a dog, not just a pet but a ‘service dog’. For many, an animal is healing, comforting and necessary to function as part of a community. For some, long-term health issues may lead to anxiety and problems manifested by just ‘being’, leading to isolation.
The Association for Protection of Animals Algarve (APAA) introduces Gryffin Danvers, who had brain surgery as a teenager, believing not to survive past 30 years or so. Indeed, not only did Gryffin survive but also championed a special service.
As Gryffin points out, “energy is limited and unpredictable. For many with multiple disabilities, this means traditional employment is impossible.”
Gryffin helps disabled people to handle their dogs and, in turn, trains the dogs to assist their owners. Understanding the handler’s problems is paramount.
Waiting lists for service dogs/training are extremely long. Often people who want to help don’t know where to start. “Not every dog is suitable; they have to be evaluated.” Also, Gryffin trains people to support disabled clients with safety, dignity and, importantly, respect.
Remember, for those who are ‘able’ but lonely, a dog can be the answer to a grey drudgery, a monotony on a frighteningly incomprehensible level. Why not look to a furry friend who will open the day, making it happier, fuller, meaningful and brighter?
Gryffin has a detailed, goal-driven project plan – find out more at gryffindanvers.com. See the full picture for yourself. But as Gryffin rightly points out, anyone needing an animal for service or companionship needs to choose the right dog. The right friend!
Dates for your diary:
- Saturday, March 28: Anita is hosting a special APAA morning and picnic lunch event at her country home. The theme will be a masterclass flower-arranging session with talented duo Paul and Pasi (Joki-flow). 11am start. Limited places.
- Tuesday, March 31: APAA’s AGA will be held at Recanto dos Mouros restaurant in Silves, at 1pm. Lunch afterwards. Couverts, soup, turkey withgryffindanvers.com mushroom sauce, bacalhau com natas (cod with cream), lamb stew, dessert, wine/water. €30 members/€32.50 non-members. Pop-Up table!
APAA charity shops
- Alvor: Dunas de Alvor: Mon-Sat, 10.30am-2pm
- Silves: Rua Elias Garcia 20, Mon-Fri, 10am-2pm (Sat 1pm)
Real bargains! Books, gifts, handmade jewellery, ornaments, homemade 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 (animal sterilisation) and abandoned animals. Having a clear-out? Think APAA.
- Gryffin Danvers: 925 494 568 / gryffindanvers.com
- Jackie’s lunches and all events: events.apaaportugal@gmail.com
- Pets: info.apaaportugal@gmail.com
- Please check out APAA’s Facebook!
