When we first dreamed of living full-time in a van, we didn't have a dog yet. However, we anticipated that by the time we pursued our dream, we would have a furry companion. As it turned out, we had Lyyli for three years before our van journey. It's essential to note that this lifestyle isn't for every dog—some struggle to adjust to smaller homes, external noises, or constantly changing environments. We've been fortunate that Lyyli has adapted well. With a reactive dog traveling might be a bit more challenging since in South-Europe most dogs roam freely and might come to say hello without asking permission.
Before moving to a van:
🚗 Practice car travel with your dog.
🛌 Teach your dog to go to her bed on command
😴 Ensure there's a designed bed or some other place for your dog to rest.
📘 & 💉 Keep your dog's passport updated and ensure all necessary vaccines are up to date.
⏰ Build routines (feeding and walking) that you can easily continue in van life. Routines build safety.
🪈 Make sure that your dog has a strong recall. We use Acmes retriever whistle with Lyyli.
🦮 It's important to practice walking your dog on a leash. In some countries, laws require dogs to be leashed during certain periods, such as in Finland from March to August 19th. In public places and urban areas, regulations usually mandate that dogs must be kept on a leash.
Passport and mandatory vaccines
Requirements for dog vaccinations when traveling in Europe can vary depending on the country you are visiting. It's important to check the specific regulations of the country you plan to visit, as they may have their own set of rules. Here are some typical requirements:
- Rabies Vaccination: Rabies vaccination is usually a mandatory requirement for dogs traveling to Europe. Dogs must be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before travel.
- Blue EU Pet Passport: An EU pet passport is often required for dogs traveling within Europe.
- Tapeworm Treatment: Some countries may require dogs to be treated for tapeworms. When traveling to Finland, Malta, or Norway, consult a vet 1-3 days before entering these countries. The vet will administer worm medication to your dog to protect against Echinococcus and will document this in your dog's passport.
- Ticks and Tapeworm Treatment: Some countries may also require treatment against ticks, especially if you are entering from certain non-European countries.
- Microchip: A microchip is generally required for identification purposes. It should be implanted before or at the time of rabies vaccination.
How to ensure safety while traveling in a car?
A car safety harness with a carabiner. We recommend using Kurgos' crash-tested car harness, which has metallic clips that won't break in the event of a car crash. Some harnesses use plastic clips, which may not adequately protect your dog. The only downside is that the harness restricts the dog's movement during the ride.
A crate. Some dog owners prefer using a crate that doubles as a bed. If you choose this option, make sure the crate is securely attached to prevent it from flying during a crash. Keep in mind also that soft crates are not safe places to travel.
Letting the dog roam freely in the car. This is unsafe for everyone involved. There are no plus sides with this option.
Emergency kit for a dog
Medicinal charcoal for poisoning
Mild 3% hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting
Honey or pitch ointment for wounds
Self-adhering gauze
Tick tweezers
Non-stinging skin cleanser
Paraffin oil to remove foreign objects
Viper pack for wasp stings
Diarrhea treatment product
Fever thermometer
💡 If you suspect that your dog has swallowed something sharp, feed boiled asparagus or canned asparagus (without salty liquid) to her/him.
Are there any possible dangers to a dog in Europe?
Blue-green Algae. In the Nordic countries, there is blue-green algae that is dangerous for dogs on some beaches. You can read more about Blue-green Algae from Blue Cross.uk.
Pine processionary caterpillars. The larvae of the pine processionary moth are equipped with specialized urticating hairs that can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in humans and animals. Contact with these hairs can lead to symptoms such as skin rashes, itching, and, in more severe cases, respiratory issues. You can read more about these caterpillars from Almo Nature.
Ticks are prevalent in many European countries, and they can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease. Regular tick prevention measures and thorough checks after outdoor activities are crucial.
Adders and snakes are found in some regions of Europe, particularly in rural or wooded areas. Always keep your dogs on leashes in unfamiliar areas and exercise caution during walks. In Finland, many young Vipera Berus snakes emerge in nature during the spring. These young snakes are particularly dangerous as they tend to release more venom than necessary when attacking.
Lyylis packing list:
- A long leash and a short leash
- Regular harness and car harness
- Light collar
- Emergency kit
- Frisbee, ball, and soft toy
- few dummies for retriever training
- a Kong
- Towel and bathrobe
- Rain jacket
- Treats and bones
- Food
- Furminator
- Nail cutter
- Eye rinse
- Ear rinse
- Retriever whistle
- Paw cream
- Shoes
