Woof, woof, woof, woof, woof!! According to data from the first National Census of Stray Animals released by the Institute for Conservation of Nature and Forests (ICNF), mainland Portugal has exceeded 930,000 stray animals, with 830, 541 cats and 101,015 dogs needing our help.
I recently attended a meet-and-greet at the glorious Collab bar in Lagos. Cadela Carlota, a dog shelter in Lagos, was hosting its new initiative, the first ‘Foster Café’. The shelter’s dedicated volunteers and newest adopters were available to share their knowledge and first-hand experience on adoption and fostering journeys.
At the event, six rescue dogs in desperate need of a new home were thrust into the limelight. Princess, Odi, Carlota, Agnes, Marlon and Jeitosa had a fantastic time engaging with their newhuman friends. The day gave these friendly dogs a chance to enjoy an afternoon packed with cuddles and plenty of treats!
Adopting a shelter or rescue animal helps address the issue of pet overpopulation by providing homes for dogs who are already in need. The 2023 National Census of Stray Animals was developed by the University of Aveiro for the Institute for the Conservation of Nature and Forests (ICNF) and financed by the Environmental Fund. The majority of respondents said that the main motivation for keeping dogs was companionship (88%).
Puppies are undeniably cute, however, adult dogs equally deserve a loving home. Puppies are more popular and tend to find homes easily, but, by adopting an older animal, you are providing an unwanted, unloved dog with a forever home where they will be cherished and adored. How can you deny them that?
The volunteers were thrilled when two dogs were adopted as a direct result of the café. Another three went into foster homes. There was also a spike in visits to the shelter and general interest following the event, which was shared a lot on social media.
Sadly, volunteer Jonathan tells me it is not all good news. “The problem is ongoing. During the day of the foster café event, a bag of puppies was left at the shelter. And over the last weeks, more dogs have been brought in with different stories. Some were found abandoned and others had owners who were unable to take care of them.”
Cadela Carlota anticipates the cafés starting up again in the autumn (once the high season is over). The volunteers are also appealing to local businesses who want to get involved and support the event by hosting a foster café in the future.
Cadela will also have a presence at the Art Doce festival in Lagos in July, with a stand selling bags, t-shirts and calendars to raise money.
Why dog walking can boost your mental health
Summer has come knocking at our doors! And while sipping on a Mai Tai and baking in the sun might be on the agenda for many, these rescue dogs need more walkers! Families, young, old, in fact anyone can lend a helping hand this July. Being outside is good for you and is one of the quickest ways to boost your health and happiness. So get your walking boots on and grab a dog lead. Forget apples, walking a dog a day keeps the doctor away!
Cadela Carlota & Companhia – Associação de Protecção de Animais
LAGOS SHOP: Rua Dr António Guerreiro Tello, 10 Lagos (near Santo Amaro Market) Timetable: Open weekdays from 10 am to 12.30 pm and from 3 pm to 5 pm and closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
ALMÁDENA SHOP: Largo do Poço, 32 Almádena /Timetable: Open on weekdays from 11 am to 3 pm and on Saturdays from 11 am to 1 pm, closed on Sundays.
For more information about volunteering, contact the charity directly:
+351 917448583
