The burst bags of animal food always help the shelters that need the food for the animals in their care. “Privately owned animals, sounds awful.” Jenny smiles. “What about Pet-Parents?” Sounds good to me. “Whilst the economy is not doing well anywhere at the moment, it is no surprise that people will still spend more on their pets than themselves.”

The marketplace is, however, awash with new products in shiny containers, bags and packets. “The contents are the most important. I don’t think puss or pooch are interested in the container, pouch or box - it’s colour, for that matter.” True. Unfortunately, the scarcer the money becomes, the more the suppliers will try to hook the buyers in. “Value for money. It has to be every time. Sturdy, practical accessories such as bowls, bedding and leads. The comfort comes with love and attention and proper care.”

Amongst all of this is keeping vaccinations and vet care when required. “It’s not easy taking on an animal, whatever the financial climate. It’s a huge responsibility, and a lot of thought should go into the idea of pet-parenting!” There are already too many abandoned dogs and cats, without adding to their sad statistics. Shelters bursting at their seams, trying to keep their four-pawed-furry-friends, dry, fed and cared for. “Regular exercise, playtime, and proper food.”

Jenny has her own pets to care for. “Food-dispensers are a wonderful idea until you find that one of the animals is eating out of the other’s feeder, and funny how it’s put on weight!” Regular monitoring of an animal is part of the care regime. “Not just leaving it to fend for itself. Why have the poor animal in the first place?” Think deeply and talk it over with the family before getting your new furry-lodger-friend. It’s for life!

APAA’s recent special summer lunch at the ‘Hotel Aguas’ Parchal drew over 40 guests and friends. Why not become a member and join in the fun and raise money at the same time?

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. Clothing. Everything you need for your home or rental. All proceeds raised for SNiP and Abandoned animals. Having a clear-out? Think APAA.

Triple Charity Auction Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/802464032320020

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

Pets:info.apaaportugal@gmail.com (Mark Anita for ‘Legacy for Pets’)

Please check out APAA’s Facebook!