The Nandi Charity Shop

Founded in 1996 by John and Dorreen Piteleen, who, concerned about the number of stray cats and dogs in the Algarve, opened a small charity shop in Espiche to raise funds for a sterilization program, veterinary treatment and animal food. They named the enterprise Nandi (Afrikaans for 'beautiful') after their first dog, who they adopted not long after she turned up on their doorstep.

Nandi is now a registered charity, with 2 thriving and very popular shops; one is close to the Galp petrol stations in the city center, the other is near the “Piri Lampo” café just up from the 'chair' roundabout.
Both shops are very popular with the local and ex-pat community, as well as visitors to the area. Opening hours are from 10.00 am – 4.00 pm 7 days a week.

The Nandi Charity makes regular contributions to the local Bamboo Sanctuary and L.A.P.S. Kennels for the kittens and adult cats were built at Goldra using Nandi funds, and Bamboo benefited from the provision of fencing and Port-a-cabins.

A street feeding program is also in operation, manned by some of the 40 volunteers, with money being allocated for food every month for the daily feeding of the cats. Fresh water is also provided on a daily basis. Anywhere between 20 - 25 cats reside at the main 'kennel' and surrounding rocks. This colony is located a short distance from the Marina de Lagos and 'A Barrigada' restaurant. The second, and smaller colony, is tucked away in the corner of the car-park opposite the Marina Hotel.
Additional financial help also goes to ensuring that each animal is sterilized, and in good health.
To report suspected acts of animal cruelty via SEPNA on: +351 213217291/2 or +351 289887600