As beautiful as swans are, they are indeed a luxury, kept in their habitat for safety. A splendid meal in times gone by … Skating on thin ice? “We can’t all afford the elite, the best things in life.” Jenny Clarke, president of APAA, has a determined look. “We wish that all creatures, great and small, could have the life of luxury and happiness.”
The Association for Protection of Animals Algarve’s main campaigning issue is that of the feral cat colonies. “We have cats’ safety at heart. But their numbers are growing unpopularly out of control.” This is a worldwide problem. The feral cat is not a popular subject. However, a lot of the communities are beginning to band together.
‘Here to Help’ is, after all, APAA’s motto. “Educating communities to take charge of their own problem is a difficult one.” Until … “the numbers explode!”
Zélia Santos, their veritable Cat Woman, has been kept ultra-busy, “but successful”, Jenny at last is smiling. “Dozens of the little blighters!” Good.
“We also have problems with dogs. Pregnant females reaching full term.” What is the best thing to do? “As soon as you spot a pregnant female, lure her into safety and call APAA.” Another brood of puppies on the roadside is not the happiest outcome for the bitch or the puppies. “After, we can spay and return her to the community or rehome her.”
Stickers!
- April 20 – Joki/Reiki demonstrations Holistic Health Day, Edifício Pluma, Portimão. 10€. Vegan refreshments. Call Paul 910 665 601. Donations to APAA and Portimão Soup Kitchen.
- APAA’s popular ‘quiz lunch’ and raffle returns, at VIMAR Grill, Carvoeiro, April 23, 12.30pm for 1pm. Choice: tasty roast pork or grilled dourada. Couverts, veg soup, desserts, drinks etc. €22 members €24 non-members. Book with Jenny on 919 041 903 or email apaaportugal@gmail.com. Ask about vegetarian option.
- Bargain time! May 6, Pop-Up Shop at O Tasco, near Portimão
- May 19, Anita’s super-duper Mad Hatter’s Buffet Lunch Garden Party. Special plants on sale. Email Jenny for more info.
- May 24, Pop-Up classics on sale at Manu’s (O Pescador), Figueira. More details to follow.
Unable to make a ‘Pop-Up’ or event? Visit APAA’s charity shops in Alvor and Silves. Always bursting with goodies, ornaments, duvets, rugs, larger household items. Friendly staff always on site to chat and help, not forgetting Jenny’s jams, preserves, marmalades and Jackie’s cookies too! If you want any information on what’s in stock or looking for something specific, email Jenny.
All funds raised by APAA help to look after and feed cat colonies and abandoned often injured animals. If you think you can help, contact Jenny. “We always need cat food donations.” Helping hands? “Yes, please. Volunteers for Team APAA are always welcome!” A job you can do?
General Jenny: info.apaaportugal@gmail.com
Cat colonies: zelia.santos@live.co.uk
By APAA
