As Memorial Day weekend approaches, many people are gearing up for road trips. And if you’re a dog owner, you don’t have to leave your furry friend behind. According to Will and Kristin Watson, who have been living in a renovated bus since 2019 with their 3-year-old daughter and 10-year-old pit bull, bringing your dog along can be a rewarding experience.
Although some may think that traveling with a dog can be challenging, the Watsons believe it’s worth it. Kristin advises dog owners to give their pets the opportunity to join them on road trips before assuming they won’t be able to handle it. Most dogs just want to be with their owners and are adaptable to new experiences.
When the Watson family first moved onto their bus, their dog Rush took some time to adjust. He would often run from the front to the back of the bus while they were driving, indicating anxiety. To help him calm down, the Watsons started giving him CBD for dogs, which has helped with his anxiety and joint pain.
Creating a designated space for your dog in the car or bus can help them feel more comfortable and settled. Rush spends his time either in the front with Will while he drives or in the back on the bed. The Watsons also make sure to have all the essentials available for Rush, such as food, water, and toys.
Taking regular breaks during the road trip is essential for both humans and dogs. The Watsons make sure to walk Rush every time they stop to stretch their legs and take bathroom breaks. This allows Rush to get some exercise and fresh air.
Having a dog on a road trip can provide extra security and companionship. Rush acts as an alarm system for the Watson family, alerting them to any potential threats. Plus, he loves exploring new places and experiencing different smells.
However, traveling with a dog does come with some challenges. Many national parks have restrictions on dogs, so it’s important to plan your activities accordingly. Additionally, some campgrounds may not allow certain breeds, like pit bulls, due to misconceptions about their behavior.
The Watsons recommend using websites like BringFido to find dog-friendly restaurants, activities, and accommodations while traveling. They also suggest exploring public lands, which often have fewer restrictions and provide wide-open spaces for dogs to run and play.
Despite these challenges, the Watsons have no regrets about bringing their dog on their travels. They believe that dogs are valuable companions and leaving them behind is never an option.
So, if you’re planning a road trip and are unsure about bringing your dog along, consider following these tips from experienced road-trippers who live in a van full-time. Your furry friend may just make the journey even more enjoyable.
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