Animal welfare organisations across Portugal have once again shown the strength of cooperation during times of crisis, following a large-scale animal welfare intervention in the municipality of Montemor-o-Novo, Alentejo. The case has generated strong public reaction, with distressing images and reports shared widely across social media.
For approximately four months, a legal process has been underway concerning a case of alleged animal abuse involving around 70 dogs belonging to a hunting handler licensed by the Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests (ICNF) and associated with a hunting group. Following court proceedings, the Public Prosecutor of the Montemor-o-Novo court ordered the removal of the animals to ensure their safety and welfare.
The local municipal shelter began the complex process of removing the dogs, initially taking seven animals, with further removals planned. However, like many municipal kennels across the country, the facility was already operating at full capacity and did not have the space required to accommodate such a large number of dogs.
Algarve associations work together as rescued puppies begin their recovery
After a request for help was issued, several organisations stepped forward to share responsibility for the rescued animals, demonstrating how collaboration between shelters and volunteers can make urgent interventions possible.
Our shelter Cadela Carlota in Lagos has welcomed four puppies, transported to the Algarve last week by dedicated volunteers from associations in the Sotavento region.
The puppies are safe and receiving veterinary care, proper nutrition, and — just as importantly — daily socialisation to help them build confidence and trust. Over the coming weeks and months, they will be cared for and prepared in the same way as all dogs that arrive at the shelter: patiently, responsibly, and with their long-term wellbeing as the priority.
Situations like this highlight an important reality: animal associations do not work in isolation. In emergency cases, cooperation between municipalities, volunteers, and rescue organisations allows rapid responses that no single group could manage alone.
We would also like to extend sincere thanks to Nandi Charity, which once again supported our work by sponsoring each of the puppies taken into our care through a financial contribution.
Your ideas can make a difference
While rescue remains at the heart of our work, sustainable fundraising is what enables that work to continue. For this reason, the Board will hold a fundraising ideas meeting on April 11 at 3pm at the Lagos Parish Council meeting room (R. das Juntas de Freguesia 12, 8600-672).
Volunteers and supporters are warmly invited to attend and contribute ideas, contacts, or initiatives for 2026. Those attending are encouraged to bring a short outline of their proposal so ideas can be discussed constructively.
In addition, food collection campaigns will take place at Continente supermarkets on the weekends of April 11–12 and April 18–19. Donations and volunteer support during these collections play a vital role in helping shelters respond not only to everyday rescues, but also to unexpected emergencies such as this one.
Through cooperation, compassion, and community support, second chances become possible — even in the most challenging circumstances.
