Discover APACA: Animal Protection Association of the Camino de Santiago

Did you know there’s an organization on the Camino de Santiago dedicated to protecting animals? APACA not only promotes the inclusion of pets on the Camino but also offers a credential and a pilgrimage certificate for them. APACA, the Animal Protection Association of the Camino, is making a big difference, and you can help too.

APACA’s logo

History and Mission of APACA

APACA was created to help abandoned or endangered animals along the Camino routes. Founded by animal lovers, APACA is now a leader in protecting and rescuing pets. Its mission is to ensure the well-being of all animals on the Camino, providing them with care, shelter, and sometimes a new home.

APACA, established in 2015, initially focused on rescuing mistreated and abandoned animals. Today, it conducts various activities, including animal care, awareness campaigns, and education. In 2018, they launched the Canine Credential and Compostela, which was well received and earned them the Camino de Santiago Award (1st in the 3rd Category).

Animals on the Camino are the target of APACA’s action

Services and Activities of APACA

APACA operates in several areas, which we’ll explore below.

Animal Assistance and Care

APACA has a team of volunteers dedicated to helping animals in danger. Their care model focuses on quality of life within a family environment, managed by committed, dog-loving households. In addition, it is essential that they enjoy living with them and maintain a dog-friendly lifestyle. The animals receive medical attention and are housed in suitable facilities until they can be adopted or sponsored.

Awareness Campaigns

Education is a key part of APACA’s mission. The association organizes awareness campaigns to inform pilgrims and the local community about the importance of protecting animals. These campaigns include talks, workshops, and the distribution of informative materials.

The Codex Canini is a very interesting editorial project of APACA

APACA also has an interesting project, the Codex Canini, a manual similar to the Codex Calixtinus but for dogs and their owners. The Codex Canini, authored by Raquel Freiría with a special collaboration by Antón Reixa, was published in April 2020 in Spanish, followed by Galician and English versions. It’s essential for those doing the Camino with their dog in Galicia. It also offers valuable insights for those interested in animal protection and dog-friendly travel. The book includes 263 pages with photos, graphics, and practical information.

APACA has also released a documentary, “The Values of the Camino”. This film, co-financed by the O Teu Xacobeo program of the Galician Tourism Agency, explores the Camino de Santiago with dogs. It also addresses the situation of animals in rural areas and the practice of Camino Values. The documentary features Sara Escudero and her dog Zuri, offering a journey that immerses us in the magic of the pilgrimage and invites reflection on social values and the treatment of animals.

Adoptions and Sponsorships

One of APACA’s main activities is managing adoptions and sponsorships. The association works hard to find loving homes for rescued animals. Additionally, they offer the option to sponsor a specific animal, allowing people to contribute to their well-being without adopting.

How You Can Help

If you have a soft spot for four-legged friends, there are several ways to support APACA.

Volunteering

Volunteering with APACA is a great way to directly contribute to animal welfare. Volunteers can assist in animal care and daily activities or participate in awareness campaigns. No prior experience is needed, just a love for animals and a willingness to help.

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

Donations

Donations are crucial for APACA’s operations. These funds cover veterinary expenses, food, and facility maintenance. Every contribution, no matter how small, helps APACA continue its important work.

Animal Sponsorship

Sponsorship is a special way to help. Sponsors contribute monthly to the care of a specific animal, receiving regular updates on their progress. This option is ideal for those who want to help but cannot adopt.

How to Request the Canine Credential

APACA also offers a Canine Credential for pilgrims traveling the Camino with their dogs. This official document certifies that the dog is accompanying its owner on the Camino. To request it, visit APACA’s website and follow the steps in the Canine Credential section. The same applies to obtaining the Canine Compostela. In our travels with pets, we always include it because your furry friend can also be a “doggrin” and leave their mark on the Camino.

Canine Credential issued by APACA

Contact and Social Media

For more information on how to get involved, donate, or request the Canine Credential, contact APACA.

If you plan to walk the Camino de Santiago with your pet, besides relying on us for your trip, you should know about this organization. APACA, the Animal Protection Association of the Camino de Santiago, does invaluable work. Since its foundation, it has assisted and cared for countless animals, giving them a second chance. With your help, APACA can continue to make a significant difference: join this noble cause and help protect the animals of the Camino.