The new year 2026 has arrived, with all the expectations of a happy, healthy, and wealthy one. For dogs and cats, our furry canine and feline friends, amongst other household pets, budgies, parrots, rabbits, mice and the odd tarantula or snake, the winter months mean a slowing down, a resting period. Lucky tortoises have withdrawn into their shells for a good long nap.
Many animals and insects ‘hibernate’ falling into a trance-like sleep to preserve their lives. Humans become more lethargic and prone to napping for longer periods. The days are darker and shorter. The sun, having returned on its travels, is brightening our lives, shaping the longer day by barely minutes. Spring is around the corner. The consistent rain has meant a lot of lush greenery appearing, sheltering the more vulnerable plants lying low.
Jenny Clarke, president of the Association for the Protection of Animals Algarve (APAA), has just returned from a quick vet run and a visit to a local shelter: “Taking food to the various smaller shelters in need is part of APAA’s ‘Here to Help’ motto. Sometimes, we also take blankets that shops are unable to sell.”
Most of the public probably think of kennels and catteries as being self-sufficient. “Wish! The colder weather is hard on the smaller shelters. Heating and feeding are expensive.”
Hypothermia is a problem with small animals, especially puppies and kittens; those extra layers are needed. Younger animals have not yet grown extra hair or fur for protection like their older counterparts. Also, some bacteria thrive in the colder climates.
“A winter wonderland is a lovely concept but can be deadly. Humans can pop on a woolly bobble-hat and scarf for protection. Our dear pets and abandoned animals rely on human kindness.” An extra blanket for pooch or puss? An old unwanted bedspread? They all help. “If you are turning out the house or garage and have a load of items you don’t need, we can help with transportation. We try and get suitable clothing and necessary items to the human charities.” All for one and one for all! Jenny has re-loaded her white van and has sped off into the distance. A cheerful wave and a happy new year!
Visit 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, hand-made jewellery, ornaments. Home-made 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 and abandoned animals. Bring unwanted presents. Browse and buy!
- Contacts and Jackie’s lunches: events.apaaportugal@gmail.com
- Pets: info.apaaportugal@gmail.com (mark for Anita-Legacy)
- Always check out APAA’s Facebook
