The past few weeks have once again reminded us why our work as an association matters — and why the support of our community is more important than ever.
Recently, our volunteers have responded to several urgent calls concerning abandoned puppies found wandering alone in poor condition. Situations like these are unpredictable and demanding. Rescues rarely happen quickly; it can take days of searching, monitoring, and patiently gaining an animal’s trust before a safe rescue is even possible.
One recent case involved two young dogs that had been wandering together for several days without food, shelter, or care. Both were understandably wary and difficult to approach, and it took persistence and repeated visits before they could be brought to safety — one slightly sooner than the other.
The situation highlighted how serious these cases can be, with young animals left vulnerable and alone, but it also provided a powerful reminder of why perseverance matters. Seeing (now named) Billy and Buddy reunited was a truly special moment and a reminder of the positive outcomes made possible through patience and dedication.
Calls for help can come at any time — early mornings, weekends, or late evenings — and each one requires volunteers ready to act, along with the resources needed for food, transport, veterinary care, and recovery. Often, temporary shelter and food must be provided while volunteers continue returning to an area until an animal can finally be secured safely.
It remains difficult to understand how so many young animals are found without identification, collars, or microchips, and with no one coming forward to look for them. Yet this is the reality our volunteers face week after week.
Help us shape our future fundraising together
While rescue is at the heart of what we do, sustainable fundraising is what makes that rescue possible. For this reason, the Board will hold a meeting on April 11 at 3pm at the Lagos Parish Council meeting room, R. das Juntas de Freguesia 12, 8600-672, to gather ideas for fundraising events and initiatives for 2026.
We warmly invite all volunteers and supporters who would like to contribute ideas, energy, or useful contacts. If you know individuals, companies, or organisations that may wish to collaborate, sponsor, or help organise events, your input could make a real difference. Those attending are kindly asked to bring a short outline of their idea, as detailed as possible, so we can discuss its feasibility together. Every idea is important and very welcome.
In addition, we will be holding food collection campaigns at Continente supermarkets on the weekends of April 11-12 and April 18-19, where volunteers and donations are always greatly appreciated.
Supporting the association does not only mean financial donations. People can contribute time, professional skills, transport assistance, fostering, organisational support, or simply help raise awareness within the community.
Together, we can ensure that when the next call for help comes — and it will — we are ready to respond.
Your ideas, your time, and your support truly help save lives.
