The most solemn ‘marriage’ vow. Some undoubtedly made in heaven. We make promises hoping we can keep them. “Animals are undoubtedly part of that equation. APAA’s president Jenny Clarke has, over the years, attempted help keep others’ promises. “A difficult one. Especially when a loved one has departed.”
The Association for Protection of Animals has become acquainted with widows and widowers who are left holding a baby. Albeit a feline or canine version. Sadly, the pet has been left wondering ‘what is happening?’
“Ideally, we would all make adequate provisions this side of the curtain as it were.” As Jenny and many APAA members are aware. “We try to do our best, but sometimes it just doesn’t seem good enough.” People trying to manage their own grief and a pet, which may not have been the survivor’s ‘baby’. Now having to come to terms with their pining, coping in difficult times. “Many animals are older, start displaying illnesses, which can be a nightmare. On top of all the other hassles we are having to face!” No doubt.
‘Here to Help’ is APAA’s well-worn motto. If you need a vet, advice on your pet, have nowhere to turn, contact APAA and they will try and be of some assistance. “What can seem to be the last straw can be a new beginning.” How so? “Building a new bridge with the seemingly abandoned pet can suddenly rejuvenate a lapsed friendship.” Now pet and surviving partner can move on. Together. A new chapter.
Team APAA have drawn up a sturdy list of ‘things to do’. Markers at the ready.
- APAA stall at Convent’bio Lagoa, Friday, September 27, 11am-4pm. General household goodies, pet corner.
- Pop-Up shop at O Tasco, Senhora do Verde, Monday, October 7, 12pm-3pm. Always a smash hit for pictures, ornaments, books, a mini-bazar!
- APAA’s stand at afpop’s BLiP EXPO (Better Living in Portugal), Saturday/Sunday, October 12-13. Special welcoming table for new members. Cat and dog stockings with treats for your pets! Come and chat.
- Jolly Bar Alvor, Friday, October 25, 10.30am-2pm. Another amazing shopping adventure. Household goodies, ornaments, curtains, also Gill Goode’s prints, cards and artwork, and Fiona’s Fi-Line clothing, jewellery and make-up.
- Ferragudo Fair Car Boot Sale, Sunday, November 10 and December 8 – starts at 8am.
- Keep a look out for APAA on Facebook’s monthly group Charity Auctions with Emporium.
APAA Charity shops in Alvor and Silves are always welcoming shoppers who bring and buy. Stacked with goodies! Don’t forget all ‘Pop-Up’ shops and stalls will have a super yummy array of homemade jams, preserves, chutneys and marmalades and scrummy cookies!
Contact help: info.apaaportugal@gmail.com
Events info: events.apaaportugal@gmail.com
