Hitting the Road with Your Furry Copilot: Tips for Road Life with your Dog
Living on the road is an incredible adventure, and sharing it with your four-legged friend can make it even better. But adapting to vanlife with a dog requires careful planning and preparation.
Raising my pup Fado on the road was one of the best decisions I have ever made. What was most important to me was keeping him safe and healthy, training the best I can and creating amazing memories. In this blog I will go over tried and true products and tips and tricks.
⟟ Oregon
Essentials for your Doggie Dwelling:
Food & Water on the Go:
Stainless steel bowls with rubber bottom for no spill! I use stainless steel because plastic bowls can leech microplastics and PFAS - not good for you or your pup!
Foldable bowl for travel/hiking
Freeze dried beef liver is my favorite treat to keep on hand for my pup, 1 ingredient and packed with nutrients
Beef trachea, duck necks, and bully sticks are my favorite high value treats
Raw toppers for skin health, canned fish in water, preservative free salmon oil, and a veggie topper for additional nutrients
Adventure Necessities:
A quality harness, collar, and leash are necessary! I recommend having a backup as well.
Life vest for water adventures is a MUST!
Backpacking harness for multi night adventures - be aware you need to train your dog properly to be able to wear this. Start off talking him/her on walks with it completely empty and work up to overnight trips carrying gear.
Take your dog on the adventure of a lifetime with a rappelling harness
Doggy Booties - I use these more frequently than I thought, to avoid cactus in the desert, Glaciers in Alaska, and the Salt Flats in Utah.
Dog first aid kit - always be prepared!
Rain jacket to save your tiny home when bad weather arrives
Tangle free long lead - this is a great hitch system especially if you’re not comfortable letting your pup off leash!
Quick drying towel + dog wipes for an easy clean up post adventures!
⟟ Arizona
My Big Investments:
Off Leash training: I took my pup to professional off leash training at Sit Means Sit Denver, it was life changing and I highly recommend it!
GPS Tracker: Ensures peace of mind if your dog ever gets loose/runs off
I recently made a big investment in the Garmin Alpha 200i, this was a big decision but ultimately a great purchase because it can track your dog via satellite anywhere in the world, has a 9 mile range, sound/vibrate/simulation settings, AND inReach technology adds two-way messaging and interactive SOS alerts for peace of mind.
More budget friendly GPS tracker options would be a Tractive (subscription required)
Pet insurance: I have used Healthy Paws pet insurance since I brought Fado home from the shelter 3 years ago, and have used it one time. Ultimately it is up to you to decide if pet insurance is right for you!
Beyond the Gear:
Plan Dog-Friendly Routes:
BringFido for dog friendly hotels, restaurants, and activities
AllTrails for finding dog friendly trails
Practice Leave-No-Trace: Be responsible dog owners! Always clean up after your pup and leave no trace in campgrounds and outdoor areas.
Remember, every dog is unique. Adjust your setup and routine based on your pup's needs and preferences. With careful planning and preparation, you and your furry friend can embark on an unforgettable adventure together!
Hope this helps you get out there more prepared with your pup!
