Doctors often prescribe two things for your physical and mental health as you get older—a daily walk, and the company of a dog.
Now, AEZA, the animal welfare charity based in Aljezur on the Algarve’s west coast is offering people in the area the opportunity to enjoy both, while at the same time helping out a worthy organisation that is desperately seeking volunteers.
AEZA Vice President Kerry Gross told us: “We are a small charity run by overstretched volunteers and need help to improve the lives of the dogs and cats in our care.
“We need volunteers to help walk the dogs on Tuesdays and Fridays at 10.30am and Sundays at 2.30pm. These are the only times the dogs get proper exercise and contact with people other than their carers, so this is important mental stimulation as well as physical.
“We have dogs to suit all, small, medium, large, and friendly, as well as those with special needs, the shy ones and the ones that need a strong person.
“You don't need to book to walk the dogs, just come when you are able to at the stated times”.
Anyone interested should make their way to the shelter at the relevant times, and Kerry explained, “Our shelter is located just outside Aljezur. From the only roundabout in Aljezur, alongside the Camara offices, take the N120 heading north out towards Rogil.
“After about 1km you will see a left-hand turning sign posted to Amoreira beach. Take that turning and after a further 1km you will see a red rock cliff on your right with a stone track alongside it.
“Turn onto that track and the shelter is the first building on the left.
“For those of you with GPS the co-ordinates are: 37.326370, - 8.805241
“You can also find us via Google maps HERE.
“We would really love to see you there—and so, more importantly, would the dogs!”
Kerry added that AEZA was also looking for volunteers to help maintain and repair the infrastructure at the kennels, explaining, “We could also do with people with DIY abilities to keep up the maintenance of our crumbling facilities, which are old former pig buildings that the dogs now live in.
“We also have a cattery and the cats always welcome visitors for a cuddle and a chat”.
She added, “Our fundraising committee also welcomes new volunteers as would our main committee”.
Kerry can be contacted at kerry@aeza.org
