As the weather warms up and the Easter break approaches, many dog owners are planning to expand their usual walks into adventurous trips. With the rise of rail and cruise companies accepting pets, you can now easily take your furry friend to destinations like Milan or the Netherlands, without worrying about crates or cargo holds, or the higher carbon footprint of flying.
Top European Rail Operators for Pet-Friendly Travel
When traveling with dogs, some European rail companies offer better services than others. Here are some of the best:
NS (Netherlands): Known for its minimal restrictions on dogs, NS allows pets to travel without wearing muzzles, making it a comfortable journey for your dog.
Austrian Federal Railways (Nightjet): For an exciting experience, the Nightjet train offers private cabins for passengers with pets. Enjoy the journey with your dog by your side, even for breakfast!
SNCF (France): While dogs must often wear muzzles on SNCF trains, its extensive network allows for travel throughout France and into Spain, making it an excellent choice for adventurous trips.
Considerations for Traveling with Your Dog
1. Time of Day and Year
Avoid Rush Hour: Stations like Gare du Nord can be overwhelming for dogs, so it’s better to avoid rush hour when trains are crowded.
Temperature Concerns: Be mindful of extreme temperatures, especially in the summer. Heatstroke is a serious risk for dogs, particularly those with thick coats. Carry water and avoid travel during the hottest times of the year.
2. Fewer Train Changes
Dogs need space and rest. Trains with multiple changes can be stressful for them, so opt for direct routes when possible.
Dog-Friendly Rail Routes in Europe
France: A Scenic and Pooch-Friendly Journey
Calais to the Loire Valley: This route offers several pet-friendly stops, including dining at Le Grand Bleu in Calais, where dogs are provided with water.
Touring the Loire: In Tours, dogs can join you for a riverside walk ending at Art is an Ale Brewery, which welcomes furry friends.
Dog Rules in France:
Dogs under 6kg can travel in a carrier on your lap or under the seat.
Dogs over 6kg must be leashed and muzzled.
From April to June, dogs must be on a leash in forests, meadows, and riverbanks unless on a designated path.
Northern Italy: Milan and Venice with Your Dog
Milan: The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping center and parks like Parco Sempione offer pet-friendly environments for dogs to explore.
Venice: Head to Lido Island for a dog-friendly beach experience at Pachuka Beach Club, where dogs can play in the surf and relax in the sand.
Italian Dog Etiquette:
Dogs must be muzzled when instructed by officials, and regions have strict laws regarding dog waste.
Certain breeds, such as Rottweilers and Dobermans, are not allowed in Venice.
Sailing to the Netherlands with Your Dog
Harwich to Hoek van Holland: Take an overnight ferry from the UK to the Netherlands. Although dogs aren’t allowed in public spaces on the ferry, they are welcome in private cabins or on the pet deck for breaks.
Dutch Travel Tips:
Dog Ticket: You must purchase a “dagkaart hond” (dog ticket) for around €3.30 for each travel day.
Dog-Friendly Cities: In Rotterdam, dine at Markthal and enjoy dog-friendly harbour tours. In The Hague, visit parks like Haagse Bos or the dog-friendly sections of Scheveningen Beach.
Conclusion
Europe offers a variety of rail and ferry routes that make it easier to travel with your dog. From scenic French train rides to beach days in Venice, there’s no shortage of destinations where you and your furry companion can explore together. With a bit of preparation and attention to the rules, a dog-friendly European adventure can be a rewarding experience for both you and your pet.