[Gocamino] Dogs on the camino

[Grant Spangler]

Kinsey,

I would strongly recommend your canine companion waits for you at home. The 
very few that take horses or donkeys have support mechanisms in place for 
the animals. Not the case for doggies. The vast majority of albergues will 
deny you entry if you have a dog with you. It would be unfair and dangerous 
for the dog to be simply tied up outside. Higher elevations have a greater 
wolf problem, as evidenced by the ubiquitous Mastiff. The Mastiff are 80 KG 
canines whose sole purpose is the protection of sheep. They can disassemble 
a wolf without blinking an eye. Not that this human-friendly dog would cause 
your pup any concern, it’s rather the LACK of a Mastiff in the immediate 
neighborhood. Wolves consume anything smaller and slower than they are, 
which includes sheep, cats and dogs. You dog tied up anywhere but a large 
city is prone to be dinner for Canis lupus signatus. Canines are also quite 
territorial, and the Spanish dogs you pass on the Way will certainly take 
note of your dog. Some will sniff, some will bark, some may bite. Please 
note: not all dogs on the Camino are chained up. Rural dogs are less pets 
that protectors, and are left unchained for a reason.

Now the next thought. Pilgrims are going from one place to another. Without 
and within. You need to be with and interact with the other Pilgrims you 
meet along the Way. The bonding that happens is unique, and you don’t want 
to miss this, it’s an important part of the process. Step out of your known 
world with all it’s comforts and amenities, and step into your new world. Be 
light on your feet and light in your spirit. Take as little as possible with 
you. God provides. Just watch.

Buen Camino,

Grant

Grant Spangler
GASpangler at hotmail.com
http://groups.msn.com/ElCaminoSantiago
http://community.webshots.com/user/ElCaminoSantiago