A party! But other sorts of planning may not be as much fun. “Dealing with sickness, ill- health, death…” For a lot of people it’s a shrug. Others a minefield.

For Jenny, President of the Association for Protection Animals Algarve (APAA), and Sid Richardson CIC of Animal Rescue Algarve (ARA), it was a bit of both. Wondering what will happen to your family when you ‘pop off’ is an easy tick-box. A ‘Will’. You write a will, and it’s all dealt with.

“But what happens when you are leaving pet(s) behind?” The ‘Legacy’ Pet Plan is an easy-to-follow plan. But like all things you may want reassurance, your situation may be different, need talking through… “The ARA website is full of happy photographs, videos and also has a section dealing with the Legacy plan.”

Sid and his team are preparing for their open day on the 10th September. “We want to have as many people as we can to show our wonderful facility, here at ‘Cabanita ’, and meet the team. They are the volunteers and paid staff who will be looking after your loved ones after you have gone!”

João Ferreira, his General Manager, has his own set of assorted animals. “I think it is important for people to come and see us, and the happy, caring atmosphere here.” The open spaces, parks, and walking areas are deliberately designed for animals’ pleasure and health. The kennels are perfect and designed for both warm and cooler weather.

Anita Wight, APAA’s representative for ARA’s legacy, smiles. “Won me over! Look at the place, it is a dream come true! Somewhere for me to stay?” She smiles, her pets were signed up some two years ago. “It’s given me relief and peace of mind.” Tomorrow is something we like to book things for: flights, dinners and fun stuff. But more importantly, it's the planning ahead for the pets we take on. Our responsibility. Not just walks, feeding, playing. Their future happiness.

Author: ARA APAA;

Both APAA and ARA come across the incredibly sad duty of having to take beautiful pets away from their owners, who have unexpectedly died. “Animals do know what is happening, they understand death, perhaps, more than humans!” João works closely with the team, and they all share a sadness when an animal is brought into ARA, suffering shock from the loss of its owner. “We can and do make a difference!” He smiles.

You too can get peace of mind by email or telephone. Or even visit. ARA’s Open Day 10 September 10.30am-1.00pm. Come and see for yourself. Meet and talk to the team. Check out the beautiful shelter and their ‘furry-lodgers’ waiting for a new home. Take a friend who may want a new pal! All visits are by appointment only. Book now!

legacy@animalrescuealgarve.com

www.animalrescuealgarve.com Élia +351 289 462 384

Info.apaaportugal@gmail.com Anita: 926151621