“A cry from the heart” … Many of us have heard it only too often. The Association for Protection of Animals Algarve (APAA) has been going for some three-decades. In all their time, changing from private sanctuary to public shelter for abandoned animals. Finally, an association that helps others. ‘Here to Help’ has been their motto and remains steadfast.
Jenny Clarke, president, has a long association with APAA. “I’ve heard those words many times. Too many! I wish we could be in two places at once, maybe three or more!” Indeed. Their hotline has almost been burnt-out with the ferocity of calls, the impatience of those in desperate need. Panic. Terror.
“That’s just the human element.” The animals are another story. “We’ve been supporting our own members and community along with other associations and charities within the huge areas we now cover.”
Jenny tries to tick them off on her fingers but gets lost half-way through. “Whilst we are all aware of the sanctuaries who have been here for a long time, there are new smaller groups now establishing themselves on a ‘having-to’ basis. It’s hard work and not many ‘thanks’ given along the way.
“Hard stories are out there, where animals have been deliberately hurt, maimed, almost broken and destroyed and then dumped. Animals left to roam the streets or back country roads, limping, terrified, heavily pregnant, starving. Someone else will pick up the pieces.” Jenny pauses. “If we could wave that magic wand there would be no shelters, no rescue homes, no sanctuaries, because they wouldn’t be needed. There would be a perfect loving world, where everyone is given a fair chance. Even the animal kingdom!” No Magic Wands!
“That’s why it’s so important for everyone to help where they can. It is a difficult time of the year, when tragedies happen and a lot of ‘sorting’ needed by a few willing hands. If, you have the opportunity to give a donation, no matter how small, it is welcomed. Every little cêntimo helps. If you can actually physically lend a hand, no matter how briefly, how insignificant you think it is, it’s a huge help to all of us involved with caring for abandoned, helpless animals.”
We wish you a healthy 2026!
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) – Legacy video
- Always Check out APAA’s Facebook
