For many, living on the road means adventure and freedom. For Sara Dungo, it became a new way of life shared with her three pets.
In a viral TikTok video, 34-year-old Sara (@saradungo) shares her daily life living full-time in a van with her calico cat Chi Chi, black cat Chester, and dog Max. She adopted all three pets after moving into her van.
Sara’s journey began in 2019 when she bought a van and spent over a year and $10,000 converting it into her home.
She told Newsweek that her choice to live in a van came from exploring minimalism and wanting more flexibility. “I wanted a deeper connection with nature and more freedom in my daily life,” she said. At first, van life was about moving and exploring new places often.
Though she started alone, her family grew with her pets. She worked hard to make sure they felt comfortable in their new, unconventional home.
“They’re wonderful companions,” Sara said. “I introduced them to van life slowly, with short trips and routines that gave them consistency and comfort. I park where they can safely explore outside and come back to our cozy home at night.”
Routine is important for pets’ mental and physical health, no matter where they live. Cats and dogs feel safer when they know what to expect.
Sara used patience and positive reinforcement to train her pets. “The cats have been leash-trained since they were kittens. All three have adapted well and seem to enjoy our home on wheels.”
Positive reinforcement rewards good behavior without punishment, which can harm the bond between pets and owners.
Having her pets along has made her adventures more joyful. “I watch them closely outdoors and usually keep them leashed in cities. Thankfully, they haven’t run off.”
Living in a van also meant adjusting her own lifestyle. “I downsized my clothes to give the cats more space. I plan camping spots that are safe for my pets and avoid large cities, preferring quiet rural areas.”
Six years into van life, Sara and her pets have found a steady rhythm. “I travel slower now and stay longer in each place to enjoy the seasons with my pets.”
She said living with pets on the road has taught her to live in the moment. “It’s not always easy, but it’s very rewarding. I hope my story shows that alternative lifestyles are possible—even with furry family members.”
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