Sadly, a huge part of the animal helping hands community is returning to UK for family reasons. Her long connection with APAA, Association for Protection of Animals Algarve, a strong and unique one. “We’ve worked on many projects together.” Jenny Clarke, President of APAA, agrees. “It’s made a world of difference to many abandoned animals. Hard work, rescuing, re-homing. Having to deal with traumatic situations.”

Perhaps, then it is something of a miracle, that Gary and Wendy, happened along. In Portugal for 7 years, with their own ‘magnificent seven’ rescue dogs, they had already, albeit subconsciously started their own sanctuary. “We were looking for a piece of land, for our own ‘pet’ project, when we met Caroline.” Gary is smiling as he recalls. “It was a fateful day, really.” Although having to return home, after such a long time, in Portugal, will be a real test of strength for Caroline.

Thankfully Gary and Wendy have been involved with Kennels and animal sanctuaries for many years. “Now, with Pet Park, we will continue with the business, as our dream come true.” Welcoming all the owners back to Pet Park with their pals for boarding, and of course, new clients are most welcome. The question remains. What about APAA’s long term re-homing project, which has so long has depended on Pet Park’s help? “We are looking forward to continuing to give APAA a helping hand, finding suitable homes for the abandoned dogs. Needless to say, the right homes!” Caroline who loved her animals’ cuddles every day, relieved Gary and Wendy are of the same ilk. “We aim to give all our animals, caring, love and cuddles.”

APAA Pop-Up
Another happy note. APAA, are holding their very first ‘Pop-Up’ of the season at ‘O Tasco’ 12-3pm Thursday 22nd of September. Where all the goodies on sale for the association’s SNiP Programme. “SNiP (Spaying and Neutering) crosses the whole spectrum of our animals”, says Jenny. “Not only abandoned animals but helping to keep the animal population down.Especially our Cat Colonies. We have at least three main colonies across the Algarve and are thankfully, managing finally, to keep the ferile, feline community healthy and to a minimum. But we are still talking 20 or so colonies with minimum 15 cats, maximum 25 to each. A lot of money is needed.”

Volunteers are always wanted for helping APAA, help you. Charity Shops at Alvor Dunas Complex Monday-Saturday 10-30-2 and Silves, Rua Elias Garcias 20, Monday-Saturday 10-2. Contacts info.apaaportugal@gmail.com Gary & Wendy Hulme petparq@gmail.com ‘O Tasco’ Lunch 282 471 769.