We walked from Roncesvalles to Estibar today. We are still being hampered by snow and rangers are closing trails as we arrive. It is still an enjoyable walk but Gary has a sore toe as his shoes have gotten wet through. He must be in a lot of pain as he is looking for alternative accommodation as we are progressing. Once he even wants to throw in the towel and stay where he is ( not a good idea as he is outside where it is cold and the only mattress available is a layer of snow covering the ground. I gently explain to him that he needs to continue on walking and that we will stop at the nearest albergue. He makes it of course. We meet a few pilgrims we know along the way. They are having lunch and are surrounded by quite a number of hungry, stray cats. They are sharing their meal with them. It's the first time I am saddened by the sight of neglected animals, it will prove to be a common one as the Camino progresses. It involves cats and dogs in rural areas. Spain is not a rich country and the houses are extremely old and in various states of ill-repair. Dogs are chained up in sheds at the farmers vineyard (farm) and there is not a soul around. They have water and look well fed but they spend their entire lives mostly in their own company. There is no one to play with them, brush ,wash them or take them for a walk. I wondered many times, how often these animals see their respective owners. Some haven't even got a warm place to protect them from the cold. It was winter and 1 greyhound looked malnourished and who will save these buggers. They often come across as potentially dangerous, so pilgrims mostly steer clear of these animals. What a contrast with their fellow mates in the cities. Here pets are pampered like any other place in the world. They have a wonderful live.
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