Camino de Santiago with your dog: APACA, the canine credential and how to do it

Hiking the Camino de Santiago with a dog is becoming increasingly common among pilgrims who don’t want to be separated from their travel companion. In this context, there is a key organization that ensures animal welfare along the Camino routes: APACA, the Animal Protection Association of the Camino. In addition to rescuing and protecting animals, APACA promotes the idea that pets can also experience the Camino, providing them with their own credential and pilgrimage certificate. Below, we explain everything about their work and how you can help.

Logo of APACA, the Animal Protection Association of the Camino

What is APACA and its role on the Camino de Santiago with a dog

APACA was founded with the aim of helping abandoned or endangered animals along the Camino de Santiago. Established in 2015 by a group of animal lovers, it has become a benchmark in the protection and rescue of pets on the Camino. Its mission is to ensure animal welfare by providing care, shelter, and, in many cases, a new home. In addition to its assistance work, APACA carries out informational and awareness actions aimed at both pilgrims and the local population. In 2018, it launched the canine credential and Compostela, known as the “Perregrina”, a pioneering initiative that was very well received and even won the Camino de Santiago Award.

Animals on the Camino are the focus of APACA’s work

Services and activities of APACA

APACA’s commitment is mainly based on two pillars: animal protection and social awareness.

Animal assistance and care

APACA has a team of volunteers who care for animals in at-risk situations. Its model is based on care in family environments, with committed homes and animal lovers. Animals receive veterinary care and are fostered until they can be adopted or sponsored, always ensuring their well-being.

Awareness campaigns

Education is a fundamental part of its work. APACA organizes campaigns, workshops, and informational actions to raise awareness about animal protection on the Camino.

The Codex Canini is a very interesting editorial project by APACA

One of its most notable projects is the Codex Canini, a guide inspired by the Codex Calixtinus, but focused on pilgrims traveling with dogs. They have also produced the documentary “The Values of the Camino”, which explores the experience of doing the Camino with a pet and the situation of animals in rural environments. Below you can watch the full documentary “The Values of the Camino”:

Adoptions and sponsorships

APACA actively works to find homes for rescued animals and offers the possibility of sponsorship, allowing people to collaborate continuously in their care.

Doing the Camino de Santiago with a dog: what you should know

If you are thinking about living this experience with your pet, it is important to plan your trip well. From the right equipment to choosing routes and accommodations, everything influences the experience. Here you can find out what equipment you need to do the Camino with your dog and all the useful information for walking the Camino with a pet. The Camino is an incredible experience for them too, but it requires preparation and responsibility.

Sign indicating what to do if you find a lost animal on the Camino

How you can help APACA

There are different ways to collaborate with APACA, and here they are:

• Volunteering: Being a volunteer is a direct way to help, participating in animal care and awareness campaigns.
• Donations: Donations help cover veterinary expenses, food, and maintenance, and are essential for continuing their work.
• Sponsorship: Sponsoring an animal is a way to help consistently, contributing to its well-being without needing to adopt it.

Canine credential and “Perregrina” Compostela

APACA offers the canine credential, a document that certifies that the dog completes the Camino together with its owner. To obtain it, you must visit the official canine credential section, where you will find all the necessary information. In our trips we always include it, because your dog can also be a true “perregrino”.

Canine Credential issued by APACA

Contact and APACA website

If you want to learn more about their work, collaborate with the association, or request the canine credential, you can visit APACA, the Animal Protection Association of the Camino.

Organize your Camino de Santiago with your dog

Doing the Camino with a pet is an unforgettable experience, but it requires planning to ensure the well-being of both. APACA plays a fundamental role in protecting animals along the Camino. Knowing their work and supporting them is a way to contribute to a more responsible and respectful Camino. And we, Viajes Camino de Santiago, organize trips adapted for pilgrims with dogs: dog friendly accommodations, luggage transport, and routes designed to enjoy without worries. Encourage your loyal furry friend and discover our organized trips to do the Camino de Santiago with your dog.

Ultreia, “perregrinos”!