The Association for Protection of Animals Algarve (APAA) has close contact with many of the large and smaller shelters of the homeless, abandoned canines and felines across the Algarve. “It doesn’t matter, where you are located, the helping hands have to reach out.” Jenny knows from the old days and APAA’s shelter. Dumped, often maimed, malnourished, untreatable animals deposited on their doorstep, or nearby.

ARA, close allies, have ‘Cabanita’ a shelter outside of Loulé. João Ferreira and his dedicated team have to deal with such sad tales. “Three kittens were dumped, all with their back left paw missing. Removed.” Shaking his head in disbelief. Having several amputees as his own special animal brigade, he knows what harm humans can inflict on their so-called furry-pals. “Inconceivable, but true.” João has his own mission within ARA. Sid Richardson, their leader and founder is a busy man amongst the community. Attempting to raise awareness of their plight. “Cat Colonies.” Sid smiles. “We have a few now centrally placed where we can catch them and then sterilise them.”

He has recently, along with Jenny, raised the communities awareness of ‘Legacy for Pets’. It is a struggle for owners, in their retirement to have to face their future and that of their loved ones. Wills and paperwork can be carried out quickly. But what of their pet(s)? ‘Legacy’ once a dream, has now become a fact. Between Sid, Jenny and Pop-Up shop Anita, they signed up their own animals. Appointing a guardian to take on the initial steps of taking the animal(s) and ARA taking over. Wonderful.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Client;

But unfortunately, this all costs, we dig deep into our pockets, sometimes not deeply enough. Beautiful animals abandoned, maimed, almost hanging on by a thread with the help of veterinary care most survive to be re-homed. Love costs. Through APAA’s charity shops in Alvor and Silves, their lunch/dinner venues they raise funds for SNiP and ‘Here to Help’ means just that. Their funds assist those in need. Shelters and animals alike. ARA have ‘Wooff’ shops. Active within their schools and education. Take time and check them out.

Contact: info.apaaportugal@gmail.com info@animalrescuealgarve.com

Both on Facebook. Don’t forget legacy@animalrescuealgarve.com.