Lifestyle, community, climate, connection

Portugal is still high on the visitors’ list; holidays, extended stays and for that ‘final somewhere to hang the hat’. Topping the tick-list: cost of living, lifestyle, climate… Or? A grand mix of several important factors; welcoming communities, sense of belonging, that special something.

The Association for Protection of Animals Algarve (APAA) counts many long-established expats among its members, including families arriving in the 70s, 80s and 90s.

“APAA has a huge, wonderful mix of nationalities in our tote-bag!” says Jenny Clarke, APAA president, who has just returned from a visit to a house-emptying couple who have just arrived and want a new start. “We are a well-established community. Everyone knows someone who can help.” Not what you know, but who you know.

A long-standing issue is the noise. There are kilometres of open spaces, birds, forests, shrubs … solar panels, wind farms. But we have a choice of where home will be. It’s hard if you have a home and a motorway is planned, or an autodrome, or a block of apartments suddenly appear. Some homework on the ground can help – a little question-and-answer session at the local café or restaurant.

If the land is agricultural or rustic, better still, check with the authorities as it may be de-classified at some point for special housing. Dogs? Cats? “Well, they are part of the scenery and the community,” Jenny smiles. “Complaints to the GNR are registered, but the general advice is, go to the neighbour and talk about the problem. The dogs are barking, the cats are trespassing, their children are noisy… but it’s all part of the rich tapestry of life!” A general rule is to keep noise to a minimum between 7pm and 7am, with all music and other significant noise expected to stop by 11pm.

“The animal issue is a difficult one. Dogs are there to guard. Cats keep the rodent population down. There is, however, a problem – abandoned dogs, pregnant, abused and needing urgent help. Cats are known for multiplying and setting up unwanted colonies in or near your property. We can help. We do help. But we also need people to help us tackle these growing challenges together.”

Every country, every community will have its own set of problems… Just find out what they are before they become a problem.

Not forgetting APAA has ‘fun’ events and ‘Pop-Up’ shops to meet and greet. Join now!

Visit APAA charity shops

Alvor: Dunas de Alvor: Mon-Sat, 10.30am-2pm

Silves: Rua Elias Garcia 20, Mon-Fri, 10am-2pm (Sat 1pm)

Real bargains! Books, gifts, handmade jewellery, ornaments, homemade 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 (animal sterilisation) and abandoned animals. Having a clear-out? Think APAA.

Jackie’s lunches & all events: [email protected]

Pets: [email protected]

Please check out APAA’s Facebook

APAA

APAA - Association for the Protection of Animals in the Algarve. Helping animals in the Algarve by providing funding for spaying, neutering and emergency pet care.

APAA Portugal is not an animal rescue centre. www.apaaportugal.com