For the past 12 years, the author has explored the world with her miniature dachshund, Finn, learning valuable lessons about pet-friendly travel and the unique joys of sharing experiences with a beloved canine companion. From navigating RV life to discovering dog-friendly hotels, the journey has been filled with both challenges and rewards.
The adventure began when the author adopted Finn, a tiny dachshund, in Chicago. After experiencing the loss of Finn’s brother, Huck, the author and her then-husband decided to embrace a nomadic lifestyle, purchasing an RV and embarking on full-time travel with Finn. This marked a significant shift, as the author, a travel writer, was no longer traveling alone. Since 2017, they have traversed the United States extensively, visiting deserts, beaches, mountains, metropolises, and numerous national parks.
Ensuring Finn’s safety and comfort was a top priority. The author adapted their RV to accommodate Finn’s needs, especially considering his back surgery. Ramps were added for easy access to the bed, and foldable gates were used to restrict access to potentially dangerous areas. A dedicated bed with readily available food and water ensured Finn felt secure and at home in their mobile living space.
The author discovered that Finn, like herself, prefers hotels over campgrounds. Many hotels now cater to pets, offering amenities such as specialized dog beds and treats. The Hotel Distil in Louisville, for example, provides dog beds in miniature bourbon barrels, while the Four Seasons Vail offers luxurious dog beds near a fireplace. The author has become discerning, favoring hotels that genuinely welcome pets and avoid those with excessive restrictions and fees.
Finn’s love for a good view led the author to seek out hotels with high-rise rooms. The W Philadelphia, with its 44th-floor views, was a particular hit. Similarly, he enjoyed window-side day beds at The Junto in Columbus and panoramic views of the Charles River at The Liberty in Boston. These experiences highlight the importance of considering a pet’s preferences when choosing accommodations.
While Finn appreciates modern high-rises, he also enjoys the tranquility of cottagecore settings. Destinations like Eureka Springs, Broken Bow, and Lancaster, with their wide-open spaces and greenery, offer a rustic charm that Finn finds comforting. Conversely, the author noticed that Finn tends to become restless in bed and breakfast establishments, possibly due to the unfamiliar sounds and surroundings.
Returning to places previously visited with Finn evokes a sense of nostalgia and deepens the connection to those locations. Congaree National Park in South Carolina, for instance, holds special significance as the first national park Finn has visited twice. These shared experiences create lasting memories and strengthen the bond between the author and her dog.
The author emphasizes the importance of researching pet policies before visiting national parks. While some parks, like Congaree and Petrified Forest, are exceptionally dog-friendly, others have restrictions on where dogs are allowed. Acadia National Park in Maine and White Sands National Park in New Mexico are also noted for their welcoming attitude towards canine visitors.
A near-incident at the Canadian border served as a reminder of the importance of carrying up-to-date vaccination records for pets. Although not always requested, having these documents readily available can prevent potential travel disruptions. This highlights the need for responsible pet ownership and thorough preparation when traveling internationally.
Ultimately, traveling with Finn has enriched the author’s life in countless ways. He has proven to be adaptable, resilient, and a constant source of companionship and unconditional love. Whether exploring bustling cities or serene natural landscapes, sharing these experiences with Finn has been the most rewarding aspect of her journey, creating a bond that transcends the ordinary.
