Sid Richardson, President of Animal Rescue Algarve (ARA) and his hard-working team, headed by General Manager João Ferreira, spend most of their time dodging the ‘Damocles’ sword. “In the beginning…” Sid smiles wryly. “We had a tough time getting ‘Cabanita’ opened and running.”

Now, a few chaotic years down the road, they have a viable working legalised shelter. “Truly magnificent.” Jenny Clarke, APAA’s President, is a frequent visitor. “Finally, after a few rounds of paperwork and head banging, ‘Legacy for Pets’ was born. It’s still being worked on, because it’s continually growing and changing.”


Flexibility is key. Not every pet owner has the same number of pets or all in the same animal category. Cats, Dogs. Even pet birds and rabbits. “We know that there is a problem amongst the aging population, we are vast and continuing to be older, healthier and more community oriented.” Silence. Nods all round. “It’s the dreaded words, death, gone, popped-off, died.” None of the abandoned animals know why. “Someone has promised to feed your animals. Take care of them. Often this doesn’t happen.” Statistics have shown that when someone has been taken ill or has died, then all hell breaks loose. The last thing on anyone’s mind is ‘Freddie’ the feline or ‘Poppy’ the pooch. “In one situation, it only came to light when the house came up for sale. The agents complained that a colony of feral cats had taken over the property. Threatening to terminate them.” Jenny had to contact the new owners (family members), warning them their mother’s felines might have to be put down. Luckily, homes were found for Marmaduke, Puffy and Sunny.

‘So what is ‘Legacy for pets?’ you ask. “A safeguard arrangement for your pet(s) if you should be taken ill or sadly die.” A document is drawn up between ARA and the owners, appointing a guardian. The document can be altered at any time. ARA will take care of the animals you once loved but have left behind. They will also have the care and re-homing you would wish for them, if you were still able to care for them, but unfortunately, can no longer.

Ferragudo Fingers crossed. Car-boot sale 11/05 8-12. ‘Pop-Up’ Stall Convento’bio Lagoa Friday 16 May. APAA stalls handmade Jewellery, gifts and goodies. Join the rave ‘Swinging 60’s’ Garden Party at Anita’s Sunday 25/05 1pm. ‘Pop-Up’ ‘O Tasco’ Monday 16 June. Charity shops at Alvor and Silves. STOP PRESS: VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Silves Thursday 10-2pm/Saturday 10-1pm. (Negotiable). Clothing, Household, garden/patio. Take in your unwanted presents, especially man-cave stuff. Jackie’s Cookies, Jenny’s Jams, Pickles, Marmalades: ‘Pop-Up’ and Charity shops. Not Car-boot sales.

Jenny: info.apaaportugal@gmail.com

Legacy: Élia: info@animalrescuealgarve.com