ARA has the distinction of a shelter beyond any animal’s dream
“A wonderful surprise!” Sid Richardson, CIC of Animal Rescue Algarve (ARA), and his team are astonished that they should be awarded the 1st Prize of US$5,000 by such a large organisation. “Indeed, the Worldpackers volunteers themselves have given us this award.”
There is always a youthful buzz at Loulé’s ‘Cabanita’ rescue centre, headed by general manager João Ferreira, whilst Élia watches over the administration and front office.
“There are, for one reason or another, more female volunteers! We don’t know why the ratio of young men has dropped.” Adventure, working hard with animals in a wonderful community surely would attract more young men.
ARA has the distinction of a shelter beyond any animal’s dream, purpose-built for the care and happiness of the animals who find themselves there. “Usually for only a short while, they are cared for, chipped, and re-homed as soon as it is possible to find them a good, loving home.”
Between the full-time paid staff and volunteers, they manage the parks, the kennels and the animals. “We have special play areas, with pools and parks with sprinklers for the hot weather, so the dogs can play in the open air.”
There is also an important project which Sid has just launched, assisted and endorsed by APAA (Association for Protection of Animals Algarve). APAA president Jenny Clarke and stalwart ‘Pop-Up’ shop manager, Anita Wight, have taken up the ‘Legacy Pet Plan’ for their own private menagerie.
“Now, I am sure that if anything happens to me, I fall ill, or for some reason am unable to look after them, all my darlings will be looked after at ARA. They will also be re-homed and given priority care.” Anita is not shy to admit: “Look, if I die, I can’t expect my family to stand-in for me? They are all dispersed and of a certain age themselves. My pets are my responsibility.”
Carlos Filipe, their friend, famous author and photographer, has just finished his video as a visual aid to help Anita, who will be on the road as ‘Ambassador’ for the ‘Legacy’ project. “I’m hoping people will look first at the video. Then if you need any extra help, give me a nudge. I’ll be happy to visit and have a chat on any worries or problems you may have.” ‘Legacy’ is tailored to suit individual needs.
What’s On!
- Every second Sunday of the month: Ferragudo car-boot sales, 8am-12 noon.
- Charity shops at Alvor and Silves. Pop-in and buy. Clothing, bedding, books, jewellery, gifts, and much more. Take in your unwanted presents, household items, especially man-cave stuff. Volunteers always welcome!
- Please take note: Jackie’s cookies and Jenny’s jams, pickles and marmalades available at ‘Pop-Up’ events and charity shops, but not car-boot sales.
Legacy video: https://youtu.be/yjP0obY0dUk
Contacts: info.apaaportugal@gmail.com (mark for Anita Legacy)
ARA: legacy@animalrescuealgarve.com
Carlos Filipe: www.cfilipe.pt | info@cfilipe.pt
