Owner's Handbook (Part 5): Services and Community – hotels, grooming and who will look after the dog?

Life in Bansko is wonderful, but sometimes you have to be away for the weekend or go to Sofia for work. What do we do with the dog? And when its long fur turns into ice balls after a walk in the snow?

There are no big chain dog hotels in the small town, but there is something better – close-knit community.

1. Grooming: Salvation from the snow

If you have a dog with long fur (Poodle, Golden, Cocker), winter in Bansko can be a nightmare. The snow sticks to the fur and forms hard ice balls that are painful and difficult to remove.

• Grooming salon in Razlog: There is a professional hair and bathing salon in the neighboring town. Appointments are reserved at least a week in advance.
• Pet stores: Some of the shops in Bansko offer a basic service (bathing and combing), but it's a good idea to ask on site.

Regular coat maintenance is mandatory for mountain dogs.

2. Dog Hotels and Pet Sitting“

You have to leave and can't take your pet?

Professional hotels

In the immediate vicinity of Bansko, options are limited. The nearest licensed dog hotels with cages and walks are often in the direction of Blagoevgrad or Simitli.

“Home Boarding”

This is the most popular option here. Many foreigners (Expats) who live permanently in houses with yards in the villages around Bansko (Banya, Dobarsko, Godlevo) offer dog sitting in their home.

• The advantage: Your dog is not in a cage, but on the couch or in the yard, often in the company of other social dogs.
• How to find them: The only way is through Facebook groups. Post: “"Looking for a pet sitter"” and you will receive recommendations.

3. Dog Walkers

If you work all day and don't have time for a lunchtime walk:

• Teenagers and Students: Many young people in the city are looking for extra income and love animals.
• Community: In coworking spaces, it is common practice for people to exchange favors – “"I'll walk your dog today, you watch mine tomorrow"”.

4. Community: Your greatest support

In Bansko, information flows quickly on social networks.

Facebook groups

• “Bansko Dogs”: A group dedicated to owners. Here you can ask about everything from a lost dog to a vet recommendation.
• “Bansko Notice Board”: The general group of foreigners. The best place to find a pet sitter.

5. Traveling by public transport

• The train (Narrow gauge): BDZ allows the transport of dogs. For small breeds in a bag it is free. For large breeds – you must buy a ticket (half price) and the dog must be muzzled and on a leash.
• Buses: Most bus companies They do NOT allow pets unless in a small carrier bag. Always ask the driver in advance.