A ‘grant’ is usually seen as an open or blank cheque. But Jenny Clarke, president of Association for Protection of Animals Algarve (APAA), and her colleague Jackie Billings, treasurer, have already mentally spent the gift. “Too true! We were lucky to be nominated along with a small private cat shelter.”
SNiP (Spaying & Neutering Programme) swallows most of the funds they receive. “The caveat, if you can call it that, is for the sterilisation of cats outside the Portimão area.” Ideal and not a moment too soon for a German lady who has been feeding some 20 feral cats in the Odiáxere area. “We’ve already dealt with two pregnant females.”
Mentally rubbing her hands, Jenny is calculating how fast they can ‘SNiP’ the rest. “We will have funds to invest in four more feline transport-boxes.”
APAA has, thankfully, noted that more communities are taking on the responsibility for their feral cat colonies and abandoned dogs. “We’ve also bought another cat drop-trap.” It’s all hectic in the APAA world of animals.
Climatic changes present challenges to us all. Heavy rains and gusting winds preventing humans and furry friends alike from their usual healthy swim, walk, pausing to ponder the spring emerging.
Between leaks, puddles, pains and clearing a variety of messages, we look to our health. Pets especially have a way of dealing with their lack of energy. Dogs taking to their beds, or favourite flop-out space; cats disappearing into warm laundry cupboards, under beds. Ill-health is something we all try to avoid.
Warm food, vitamins and an active mind. Pets and humans need healthy diets. A good sprinkle of multi-vitamin extract, perhaps a drizzle of an essential oil; olive, cod, tuna or salmon a couple of times a week. A touch of garlic. Helping immune systems and chronic fatigue and pain. Nature’s helping hand.
Dates to remember
- Chinese Year of the Red Fire Horse starting on February 17 – a year of action, decision and movement!
- APAA’s first 2026 ‘Pop Up’ shop. Make sure you mark up your diary. Friday, February 27, 11am-2pm, at The Jolly Bar, Alvor (near campsite). Bring and buy! Ornaments, jewellery, household goods. Gill Goode and her wonderful paintings, posters and cards. Fiona’s Feline Fashion/make-up and jewellery collections.
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? Good, unwanted gifts and clothes always needed. Bring, browse and buy!
- Jackie’s lunches and events: events.apaaportugal@gmail.com
- Pets: info.apaaportugal@gmail.com – Pet Plan ‘Legacy’ mark for Anita
- Always check out APAA’s Facebook!
