Finally, vet Pedro Serrano caught up with Amigo via Gail Skinner (dog trainer), her assistant and special catch pole. Tranquilised and carted off to Afonso’s kitchen at Happy Dog, in Alcantarilha, he was sterilised and then whisked off to Cadela Carlota shelter in Lagos, now recovering and finding his true self, whilst nursing a sore place where his pride and joy were once connected.
Jenny Clarke, president of Association for Protection of Animals Algarve (APAA), staunchly believes in their SNiP Spaying & Neutering Programme. “We had tried everything with this young, large dog. In the wild, he was adopted (temporarily) by a French couple on holiday.”
Gail, dog behaviourist and trainer, has been with his journey from the start. She will continue working with Amigo and, hopefully, he will be re-habilitated and suitable for a good home.
Ruth’s shelter, Cadela Carlota, has other animals needing special care: “They are extremely traumatised to begin with. So, we have a lot of repairing to do. But with the kindness of our attentive staff, we will give him the care he needs here.”
Gail agrees: “Getting him here has been a triumph. Now, hopefully, we can work with him and make him a success.” Several pairs of fingers crossed!
If APAA, as a ‘Here to Help’ association, can do this for one dog, imagine the effort that goes into feral cat colonies and the several abandoned dogs they deal with. APAA, with the help of the kind-hearted shelters and associations, are desperately seeking funds and help at all levels, despite the recent dreadful weather and the economic crisis, which is global. So, thankfully, APAA’s recent Jolly Bar Pop-Up in Alvor raised over €400! And Jackie’s lunch €200. So, well done, troopers!
Mark up your diary
- Monday, March 23: APAA’s second 2026 ‘Pop Up’ shop at the ever-popular O Tasco restaurant, near Senhora do Verde, Portimão. Chicken piri-piri day! Book 282 471 769. Bring and buy! Ornaments, hand-made jewellery, household goods, paintings, prints, books. Pet corner. A chance to meet and greet.
- 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. More to follow.
- Tuesday, March 31: APAA’s AGA will be held at Recanto dos Mouros restaurant in Silves, an important date for members and guests who want to attend the friendly lunch afterwards. Watch this space.
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.
Ruth Gomes: cadelacarlota.comp@gmail.com
Gail Skinner: www.awesome-dogs.com
Jackie’s lunches & all events: events.apaaportugal@gmail.com
Pets: info.apaaportugal@gmail.com
Please check out APAA’s Facebook
