Jenny Clarke and Jackie Billings, President & treasurer of the Association for Protection of Animals Algarve (APAA), complete another morning of cleaning/feeding animals at Zelia’s former home. “We recall Zelia daily, not only for her amazing cat-trapping capabilities, but also as a loyal member and friend.”

Zelia died in December 2024, leaving some 35 cats and 7 dogs in her private cat colony kennels. Two cats out of the 12 remaining cats are still looking for re-homing. “Pedro and Jet are loveable and loving, they just need the right humans!” Jackie is right, of course; she is an avid cat-person herself. However, Blackie the one remaining dog, will be her companion.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: APAA;

“I suppose, in retrospect, this is when ARA’s ‘Legacy and Pet-Plan’ come into focus. Death, something we hate to look at when we are alive and well, but there comes a time, like Zelia, when suddenly we are no more…” Jenny has disappeared into her white van. She has a run to APAA’s Silves charity shop, flooding at the basement level, ruining stocks and causing havoc with the rising water table. “A lot of people in the outlying communities are suffering. That’s why charities rely on everyone to soul-search and help out where and when they can. Not always money, time too.” Anita ‘Pop-Up’ Shop manager and ‘Legacy Ambassador’ asks, “If you have any old pet beds, toys, blankets, or towels, please remember the shelters need them. Even when the weather eases off…” She looks upwards and shrugs, “We still need to replace the tatters left behind!” Reminding us, humans also need help at this time. “Just helping out with some extra food and checking on the older members of the community!” APAA used to be a shelter, and understands only too well the hard, devoted work volunteers put into their efforts all seasons. Help them help you! Keep the flag flying!

APAA’s first 2026 ‘Pop Up’ shop. Make sure you mark up your diary. The ‘Jolly’ Bar Alvor (Nr. Camping site). Friday 27th February 11am-2.00pm. Bring and buy! Ornaments, jewellery, household goods. With Gill Goode and her wonderful paintings, posters and cards. Fiona’s Feline fashion/make-up and jewellery collections.

Visit APAA Charity shops, Dunas do Alvor: Mon-Sat 10.30 am–2pm, Rua Elias Garcia 20, Silves:Mon-Fri 10am–2pm(Sat 1 pm), Silves. 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. Having a clear-out? Good, unwanted gifts, clothes always needed. Bring, Browse and Buy!

Jackie’s lunches & events: events.apaaportugal@gmail.com

Pets:info.apaaportugal@gmail.com Pet Plan ‘Legacy’ mark for Anita

Please check out APAA’s Facebook!