A Safe and Sound Trip is Top Priority

The 3 most important things about picking up a dog I have never met is:

Trust * Trust * Trust

In most cases trust has to be earned. I understand that with most dogs trust has to be earned. Maybe we will take a walk. Maybe just take some extra time and move slow. Maybe dog just loves everybody. What is true that they are scared. I will take that extra step to earn their trust.

I believe the first 3 hours of a long journey is the most important for the dog's well-being. They have no clue what's going on and build fear and anxiety fast. I stop many times in the beginning to help develop trust for the dog. This time investment really makes a difference in the dog's overall state. 

Our journey on the road starts from the first meeting and picking up dog. First impression is everything and I start working on friendship and trust from the first minute. Once dogs realize somethings different our friendship becomes vital. The fear sets in. This is the time I have to earn their trust. They start to understand that walks and breaks are fun. They understand they are safe. I love them and they soon will trust and love me. Some take longer to adjust but all do by the end. I do my best to keep day and night normal. We all eat together or at least try. Walks are app. every 3-4 hours. I look for safe places to walk away from highways, people, and other dogs. There are a few dog parks here and there that I might let them run a little. Nighttime sleep can vary. Sometimes rest areas, sometimes travel centers, and even motels. Many times, dogs sleep out of crate if they choose. I do get attached to many dogs and that's ok for both of us. 

Most dogs love those walks. Once they settle in they look forward to getting out and walking. While traveling they build up lots of anxiety from all the unknown so these walks are vital. When I find good parks I make an effort to get some exercise in. Most cases they get out about every 3 hours.

I will maintain their normal feeding habits with their food. Sometimes dogs do not eat much during the trip which is normal. On the road dogs will drink more water than normal. I give them all the water they want. 

Note: Due to possible sickness feed very minimal the day of pickup

Adorable yes. I understand they still are babies. The USDA states a minimum of 8 weeks old. Some breeders cannot wait to shove them out the door. Personally like to see 10-12 weeks old. Nevertheless, they are babies that are scared to death. They get lots of extra love. Lots of holding and playing. Due to illnesses any puppy I transport never hits the ground. Play time stays inside the vehicle. They potty on pads within the crate. I always maintain a clean crate.

It's unfortunate but about half of dogs and mostly puppies develop car sickness in the early parts of a trip. Like I stated in the beginning part of any trip I stop a lot. If this happens, we take it slow to help them get through it. They all do fine with lots of water and some extra love. I do have 24/7 on call Vet Service if needed.

Any dog that needs extra care along a trip from meds to special handling will get it. If I am not qualified to maintain 100% I will be honest and not do the transport.

I use no medication that is not ordered by your Vet.

The most important time for all of us. Dogs can sleep outside of the crate if they choose. Some like the front seat. Some on their on spot in the back. More times than not the friendship is born. In some cases we are at a motel and most choose the bed. Best time of any trip.