The owners are at fault, we are advised, by owners, that they are docile, gentle animals. Largely misunderstood. Unfortunately, tampering with nature leads, let us say, to Frankenstein’s in every DNA group! At the end of the chain is money. Dealers and puppies on the wish list.

Not every canine bred is a pedigree. Surely, that goes without saying. The odd accidental bump! Whoops. “They are abandoned for many reasons.” Ricardo the electrician explains. “We are in the countryside, the family moves to the town or city into an apartment. Then the animal doesn’t fit into the new lifestyle.” Mm. So dumping is the answer. Silence. Okay, we move on, let us talk to the SNiP campaign which is run by APAA. The Association for Protection of Animals Algarve, have reared their ‘Pop-Up’ heads again. Jenny Clarke, President, Anita the ‘Pop-Ups’ manager and Jane VP, have decided to broaden their horizons. A busy time ahead. So get your ballpoints ready.

APAA What’s Up! Friday 6th October 12-3pm ‘O Tasco Pop-Up’ Special. Goodies for house and garden and pets. Jams, Chutneys and Cookies. Appearing at ‘afpop’s’ BLiP at Portimão’s Arena, Communities/Businesses 14/15th October. Friday 27th October 11-2pm ‘The Jolly Bar' at Alvor pop-in visit Fiona’s Fi-Line Fashion, hand-made jewellery and Gill Goodes, prints, cards and artwork. APAA’s ‘Pop-Ups’ always have a pet corner. Books, electric gadgets. Home, garden, kitchen. You name it we’ve got it.

Friday 10 November Convento’bio pre-Christmas Special for arts crafts and small businesses. APAA stall with usual goodies. Exciting goodies at Ferragudo Car Boot Sales. Fair and Street market. Main one-way street. Sundays 8 October, 12 November and 10 December, 8am-12midday. Look out for collectable silver plate, bottles, books and stuff! That special Season, is approaching fast, so APAA is really doubling their efforts to raise money. SNiP APAA’s main concern for the Algarve, Spaying & Neutering Programme, to ensure sufficient funds are available to keep furry, feral felines population down, helping with abandoned dogs and shelters and charities in need. Remember every little helps. We need you, help us!

If, for any reason, you are in doubt about taking on an animal, discuss it first with APAA. An extra head always helps. By the way two terrier canine sisters stranded in Silves due to owner being whisked off to Care Home, now re-homed. The owner also doing OK!

‘Pop-Up’/Events: events.apaaportugal@gmail.com

Cat Colonies: zelia.santos@live.co.uk

Pet Park: ghulme23@yahoo.com 926660465

Animal Care etc: info.apaaportugal@gmail.com