The wind is blowing, rain belting down, but the APAA gals are still weathering the storm. Jenny and Jackie, president and treasurer of the Association for Protection of Animals Algarve, respectively, have just completed another cat-cleaning-feeding session at Zélia’s former home.
“Thoughts often turn to Zélia, her work, and love for cats.” There is sadness but some gladness too. “Zélia died December 2024 leaving a huge hole in our lives as a colleague, personal friend, and fearless cat-trapper.”
Zélia’s legacy was 35 cats and seven dogs (ouch!), which is why APAA endorse the ‘Legacy – Pet Plan’ with Animal Rescue Algarve (ARA), at Loulé’s ‘Cabanita’, a shelter with a re-homing programme.
“Most of the cats were re-homed through shelters, associations, and people who were happy to take on older cats. Two friendly feline friends, loving Pedro and Jet, are still looking to be re-homed. The remaining 12 stay as a small containable-cat-colony.”
Out of the seven dogs, Blackie is left. She will stay providing company for Jackie living next door.
Jenny’s main thought is cat-trapping. “We desperately need people to help with this onerous task. It isn’t easy and can be a patience-wearing past-time, but well worth it. Training and encouragement are given until you can form your own team and go-it-alone.”
APAA’s motto is ‘here to help’ and they assure you they will continue to be there for you when needed.
“This weather is calamitous to our communities,” Jenny is not smiling. “Silves’ charity shop is in dire straits, with the basement flooding and ruining stocks.” The water-table having risen alarmingly, flooding is now the norm.
Anita has also asked if anyone is clearing out. “Think ‘donating to animal and human charities’ – beds, blankets, towels, any cat and dog supplies, including food, and then gifts and practicals are all welcome at our shops for re-stocking and Pop-Ups.”
Just spare a thought for volunteers helping charities and associations during these hard times. Not only economically but mother nature’s backlash. A donation no matter how small is gratefully received.
Date for your diary:
- 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!
