Van Life Essentials Should You Get a Dog While Living in a Van

[@scottcarlon6318]

Was on the road in my truck that had a camper shell on the back. My two dogs were traveling with us, one english setter, and the other a dashound.. while driving the going to the sun highway in glacier national park, we stopped at the summit to check out the visitor center. When my wife and I got back to the truck we were getting hungry, so we decided to open the back of the truck to access the cooler to make sandwiches. We had left the dogs in the back while we went in the tourist center. I dropped the tailgate to get to the cooler and while my back was turned to the parking lot, several huge mountain goats had entered the parking lot behind us. Well, while the dogs were glad to see us, as soon as the dashound saw the goats she leaped from the tailgate and was in full dashound attack mode barking and sprinting towards the biggest and closest one of the five present. Immediately people in the parking lot began hollering and going in compleat hysterics to get control of our dog. As soon as wiggley left the tailgate I was in hot pursuit. When wiggley got close to the goat the goat lowered its head an at this point I was sure wiggley would be run through by the very sharp long straight pointy horns. Wiggleys focus was focused on the goat barking and going crazy and I was able to approach rom behind and scoop her up to safety. All the while the people in the parking continued to yell at us “get your dog on a leash, control your dog” and other not so polite things. While all turned out well for the goats and wiggley, it was an experience we will never forget. Traveling with a dogs can be an adventure.

[@GypsyRose-ep1ov]

I think these are all things to consider regardless if your a nomad or not when thinking about getting a animal. Great. video

[@sunshowerpainting1]

"Hey has anybody seen my sweet Gypsy Rose"? :-)

[@TheDtfamu89]

My eyes kept wandering to the backdrop.... wow.

[@skycamjoe3871]

TheDtfamu89, this is surely a painted backdrop put in during post production! (kidding)

[@heathervasey]

I can't even focus on the discussion, it's so beautiful.

[@ericschmidt1987]

That what I was think before I read your comment. Looks beautiful

[@A10TOES]

TheDtfamu89-Mine too, so beautiful isn't it!?

[@A10TOES]

sdushdiu-no place i ever been in FL looks like THAT.

[@debra7241]

Bob, I hope people really realize what a blessing you are to the nomad community. THANK YOU, THANK YOU for making this video. I am not a nomad, but I am a viewer. I have been waiting for someone, especially the animal lovers in the nomad community to make this kind of video. First I just want to say that I'm an animal lover. I care give for animals on a daily basis, as well as foster them. I not ashamed to say that I love animals more than people. If a person decides to take a domesticated animal wether into a house, van, or whatever, you really have to think about the needs of that pet first and not yours. Why? because domesticated pets depend on us to care for them. They don't have much of a choice as to where we put them, take them, or how we even treat them. Everyone knows a dog is more loyal than a cat can be because cats in some ways are smarter than dogs in that if they are al mistreated, or don't get the attention when they want, along with some freedom, they will simply hit the road if they can. Cats require a more stationary home I think because they are not followers of humans like dogs are, unless you have a cat like mine who thinks he is a dog. Also, cats don't usually like vehicles, especially noisy ones, cats get especially nervous with noise. I've heard some people say " I have to keep my animal with me no matter what because they are my companion" yet they go on to put their animals in some of the most precarious situations. So really the animal is only in service to them when they want it. Why do people do this? Because they are selfish!!!!!!!! bottom line! If your life style is not going to suit a pet then I think a person just has to have the balls and admit it, and find another person who will be willing and able too take the animal. Better yet the person has too just simply make the decision to just buckle up and take care of it. I know shit happens with animals believe me, but if you have done the absolute best to meet the needs of that animal then you have done a good job! Animals give us so much, we need to really think about what we do with them. Thank you Bob!

[@davidollikkala1572]

Thank you for your honesty. Reality sucks, but it's all I have. That being said; we, people should really think more about getting a pet than say the research we put into buying an electronic device. Animals are living beings with feelings and the mind of a 5 years old. On the other hand, I meet people with dogs regularly who somehow think "their Pet limitations and responsibilities" are somehow "my problem". Not happening ! I Am free from the "dog restrictions" for good reason. Just a couple of observations I've made in life so far.

[@debicaron6046]

Always had a dog, since I was 6..I can't see myself without one. If my dog can't go, I am not going.

[@Busterboo56]

I agree. Dogs have always been my best friends.

[@ratherbfishing455]

I couldn't live without a dog!

[@7884golfguru]

Yep my old girl Fergie never leaves my side

[@hoslogistics]

I have a dog on the road with me for the last 10 years, and yes, there are definitely cons to this, but there are many pros as well. For me, the heart ache and pain I will surely suffer on his passing, will not be outdone by the years of joy that my dog brings me. He's a little Yorkie.

[@arriagada1957]

Gilbert Hernandez gracias..!

[@muzerhythm2242]

TY!

[@alexavery3100]

I know he HAS a dog. I was just making a CONTRIBUTION to the situation.

[@hoslogistics]

The question was: "Nomad pets, yes or no?" I answered yes. If you follow Bob Wells, we all know he has a dog...I know it's a series, but the question was asked.

[@Bhatia423]

I agree, i have a Bichon and i cant imagine life wothout her!

[@alexavery3100]

There are 10s of thousands of senior dogs languishing in shelters & rescues that need a home at least for a few remaining years. I always suggest rescuing one of them to an older person as the dogs life expectancy is so short. The down side of course, is that an elder dog can be expensive to maintain. My dogs bring me such joy (& heartache at the end) that I will probably never be without one. Greatest companions in the world. You raised some great points on this vido as food for thought.

[@linda3703]

So true on the senior dogs. I just adopted a 13 year old dog from the local shelter here. Added to my current pack of 3 !!

[@alicial6072]

So true most of the senior dogs just need a loving home to finish out their lives, less active perfect for an older person.

[@sheric3740]

Well said, Alex

[@jonlouis2582]

So true Alex. My sweetest, most lovable dog ever was a senior dog headed for euthanasia because none wanted her. She did run up some vet bills though, but def. worth it!

[@raven4090]

I'm watching this because I'm planning to bring my rabbit with me when I go on the road full-time. She's used to staying indoors so that wouldn't be a problem. They need as much attention as a dog, and more supervision. Thank you for talking about the dangers. It means never leaving her outside in her ex pen.

[@marksommers6764]

I have been full timing with a wonderful feral cat turned constant companion for 18 years. Great traveling "pawtner" ... she hikes, rock climbs, visited sea lions caves, and desert exploration while wearing a harness. Yes , I watch over her but she has alerted me of a bear threat and even stalked elk ..... boy , did I get lucky ! For some reason she brings me only non-poisionous snakes and will hand me a wayward baby bird on occasion. What a Pal ! Thanks Bob !

[@attikus881]

Sharing my life with 3-4 dogs for the last 11 years as I traveled and off and on my whole life, this is a very important video for THEIR safety and quality of life. You are just being very realistic and responsible for the benefit of our animal friends. I would hope this provokes careful thought of what a serious and long term commitment it is and promote responsible pet ownership. I wouldn't trade my time and quality of life with them for anything--I am a better human and I'm alive because of them, but it is not for everyone so I appreciate your video.

[@shesoutthere387]

I would rather have loved and lost than never to have loved

[@AsTheWheelsTurn]

I would not want to have a dog on the road but I already have a dog so if I ever were to go full time she would be going with me despite the negatives involved.

[@marcushennings9513]

I believe it depends on the lifestyle of the person and area they are in. If they are work camping or van dwelling in a city for example it could detrimental to leave a pet in a hot van for hours and we all know the legal issues that could bring. I adopted my dog when I lived in a house but surrendered him when I moved into a van and it just became too expensive to continuously pay for a sitter just so I could keep my job.

[@lindabond5002]

If you travel alone and have a dog, you are never alone...

[@CheapRVliving]

So true, and SO important!!!

[@amies2370]

If you travel alone and have the internet, you are never alone...

[@everydayhu-man2411]

@@amies2370 the internet isn't real it's virtual. People like you are gonna marry robots when the time comes

[@fbnflaviusbroadcastingnetw6786]

Everyday Hu-Man true lol

[@susanhowell1673]

@@everydayhu-man2411 some women's dream.

[@davewolf8869]

I have worked with wolves for ten years (See my avatar, he's a 240LB Canadian Tundra wolf) and it is because of wild animals that I DO have two dogs. I wouldn't want to be out in the wilderness without my dogs, or a dog, a dog has keener senses and sees things minutes and seconds before I will see them. For me, I live alone, and the sweet companionship my dogs provide is non- negotiable. I love them so much.

[@LostOnLandAgain]

That background choice was beautiful.

[@jss27560]

Lost On Land Again was trying to figure out where in Florida he was.

[@whatsananna]

Me too!

[@amiek9269]

Lost On Land Again looks like the Grand Canyon....idk

[@wildblulife6787]

Best thing is that it's real ☺

[@congerscott6064]

Very important things to consider, i always thought having a dog would be the best travel companion, they love to ride along, they protect you and your van, they keep you company and besides, who could resist Cody, thanks for the great video Bob 👍🇺🇸.

[@ellenpham4834]

Bob, when you get to be 72 you just start adopting old dogs! If ever there is a population that appreciates a gentle, loving place... they are the saddest ones at the shelter. I am not a good enough person (yet) to adopt an old dog, but when I am old too, it makes sense. Yes, there is still a chance the dog could die a horrible death, but compared to living out its life in a shelter, I think they'd chose taking their chances with this old goat ;) Ok, now I"m waiting for the video that says why you should get a dog

[@ellenpham4834]

Also, if the dog always has access to a week's worth of water, they'd probably survive until your body and van are found. They'd be traumatized, but they'd make it. The worst thing wiould be if they couldn't help it and they started eating your body. Then when they were found noone would want them :( But this is pretty macabre, I think it hardly ever happens! :D

[@ellenpham4834]

Keep a week's worth of kibble on board and in chew-through able storage, just in case ;)

[@charmainebeutel392]

Ellen Pham My husband is 83 and I am 72 and we adopt old dogs from the shelters, at least we can give them a loving safe home for what ever time they have left and yes they just love camping and riding in the RV

[@roadtrippinwithdea7261]

Thank you Bob!! Once again perfect timing! I have been planning on traveling with my dog. I could not even imagine taking to the road without one or two..... ❤️

[@arnitacanas5958]

Bob as always another good video. Thanks you for all your help.

[@angelmission]

And, some Pros: Great company, They bark to alert you if anyone comes near your camp, They give you a reason to get out and get some exercise, They help you to meet people (People love to come pet your dog), You provide a home for a pet that might not otherwise have a home. :)

[@maryjrhodes8809]

Good Pros, Angel :-)

[@annag467]

Agreed on all points! I do not want to put a dog through van life, it's hard enough for dogs to be cooped up in a house. I'm a dog momma and I would hate to have any of these things happen to my current dog. He grew up living in a house, near his vet, and right now we're just having a rockin' dog retirement as he is elderly. Now it's all about great food and cool comfy spots in the house where he can get our attention.

[@danothemano4129]

Nice shirt Bob! Really looking forward to an Alaska trip myself! The absolute love our k9s give us in their very short lives is worth every penny!

[@promotolife3783]

Caravan Carolyn just lost her cat exactly as you described. It jumped out she didn’t know it now the kitty is gone. She’s heartbroken over it. As always, good solid advice from Bob. Thank you Bob.

[@Strewelpetra]

Heartbroken? She didn't hang any signs in the town she lost it in - if it is, indeed, lost. She left the area almost immediately afterwards to go have fun with her friends elsewhere. I don't think she even had a collar on it. She raking lots of $$ with youtube hits about her drama, though.

[@Sub-515]

Totally Agree Strewel, most people would be camped out looking for 2 weeks. She moved on quickly except for making videos about it. Smh

[@dbkyhere9229]

I don’t think you guys have seen the latest videos of Carolyn, as she’s spent days going all over the place looking for her kit ten, Also talking to everyone she can to get the word out. Nobody needs criticism when they’ve lost a pet, have a heart.❤️😔

[@Strewelpetra]

Nobody should abandon their pet. No one should have a traveling pet without even a collar and tag. If you lose your pet, stay put, hang signs everywhere, tell everyone. She hung no signs and took off to party with friends. I love animals and don't like to see them treated as commodities.

[@cdlady54_95]

ProMotoLife cats are not domesticated and really have to stay on a leash or in a carrier when you go in and out. Too fast to catch

[@CarlosLopez-lm5lv]

Thank you so much for this video. I NEEDED to hear that. After losing my spouse and making a decision to go on the road, I was contemplating the companionship of a pet, but you're right. For me, at least. Traveling a nomadic life at 71 might not be a wise choice for a pet for the simple fact of one of us (him) losing the other (me) in such a short time, and under less than ideal circumstances for the pet. Something to consider.

[@joanhazelgrove9444]

I bought my dog a raincoat with hood for when I have to take him out in the rain so he will not be wet when he comes back inside. I also bought a soft bristle brush to wipe the bottom of his feet before he comes in the trailer. And I will be carrying pepper spray, bear spray and a gun for protecting us from bears, coyotes, mountain lions, etc. Beyond that, I always plan to have a dog. I am single and it provides love and companionship. I feel more alone without one.

[@Babsonthego4]

But his feet are dirty.. they plus us bring in a lot of dirt from outside. But still ..I have a little one also and plan on bringing her along for the ride. She is 18 years old. And still kicking. There are times you just need to keep her/his leash on them... Then these things won't happen.

[@mablebartlett1988]

You presented a reckoning truth. People who travel should keep contact daily with someone. Thank you.

[@cutedogs6434]

Well I have a dog already and plan to take her on the road with me when I'm ready. You made some really great points. Shes only a 1 and half so shes healthy. Shes a medium sized dog. She loves the outdoors.

[@jennifercampbell3249]

I appreciate all of the valid info Bob. I often wondered about the wild animals on the road as I'm seriously looking into becoming a Nomad. Absolutely great video!

[@sheilahag]

Yelp, you got me thinking....I have never been without a dog....but I am 66 and my husband is 68. Our dogs are 11 yrs old....I wonder if we will get another dog when they are gone. Neither my husband or I gave ever lived WITHOUT a dog. They make our house a home.....

[@calmvideo-kv6gv]

I had a special lockable rear cage door made and had it fitted behind the vehicles barn doors as well as cage panels placed over the two sliding rear windows of my large Toyota Troopie 4x4 so my dog had open air access when ever I had to leave him in the vehicle for what ever reason. I travelled with him for six months in my 4x4 and an off road caravan. I also had a fourteen metre panel fence that I erected using my caravan as the forth side of the enclosure. He and I both loved it. It meant he didn't need to be tethered. I carried it on my roof rack when we travelled. He was my deepest love and best companion.

[@thomasmcquirt7524]

I say yes as long as I could afford to feed and take care of us both definitely

[@scclif]

You're a good man Bob I hope you live as long as you want to. Best wishes to you and Cody.

[@RogerThat1851]

Very frank and straight forward information Bob and don't forget snakes and other hazards that the wild has to offer..... Thank-you Bob!

[@celladi1030]

thank you Bob for this honest and straightforward talk about dog ownership on the road. I think many people love the idea of having a pet but don't really consider all the responsibilities and this really is so true. I myself would not live without my Sugar and will always have a dog until I reach an age that I worry my dog will outlive me. kudos to you and keep on nomading my friend :-)

[@abeasley8235]

Great video. I'm planning on going nomadic when my dog passes away. People say go now she'll enjoy it. No, neither of us would enjoy it. She's an Alaskan Malamute so talk about shedding. She can't be off leash she's a runner. She's a rescue and she is so happy to have a doggie door and a fenced yard. So I'm taking my time to plan my life after the dog. She's currently about 7 years old and so I figure probably about 5 more years. Puts me around 60 so perfect in my thoughts.

[@patriciabailey5527]

Excellent reasons. Another reason I don’t have a pet is that I like to go on several days to kayak, canoe, hike or ride. I can’t leave the pet alone.

[@UncleMo2]

Wow, great timing for this video. With all the people that are looking into this lifestyle this video is a must see for those with pets. So glad you chose this topic to educate us in :) thanks Bob for another awesome video!

[@dlm8763]

Thank you for this video! I was just thinking about this while watching some of the RTR footage. Lots of people seem to bring animals with them. I imagine it helps make things not feel so lonely. I always enjoy your videos! You have a great presence and your voice is made for media! I could totally see you having a show like "dirty jobs" with Mike Rowe. I don't remember which network it is on. Keep up the great job! We appreciate it!

[@edithp.7213]

Such good advice!!!

[@ronpeted]

Excellent discussion Bob .

[@ThePossumone]

Yes can’t live without a pooch of some kind they are such excellent companions ❤

[@RicoRiverRanchcom]

I've watched many van dweller videos and it seems that the vast majority have a dog and often more than one. What is surprising to me is how large some of these dogs are. I've assumed that for at least some of these people their dog is the reason they have had to move into a van. It's pretty hard to find a rental if you have a pet, especially a big dog. Most landlords and complexes don't allow them.

[@samsonhunter1114]

for wild life dangers, consider coyote vests! theyre dog coats that have spikes and other sensory objects to prevent animals from picking them up.

[@tinyhomesrescue3275]

Good subject to discuss and review!

[@swamphick7553]

Very very very needed video .Thank you

[@a.swifty1081]

I taught my dogs to NOT jump out of my rig unless I say, "ok." They also learned the command, "Up," as a command to get in the rig or a sidewalk. When we're somewhere outside and I say, "Go to the Car," or just "Car," they know we're getting ready to go and they are eager to go the the car. Specific, consistent , repetitive commands will help keep them safe and make your life easier. Thanks for pointing out the pet considerations.

[@lorismith3072]

Good subject. I'll be on the road in 3 months and I will be getting a dog. The pros outweigh the cons for me.

[@makalapuamegs1056]

Once again you have helped me decide on not getting a dog when I begin to become a nomad. I am going to be 70 and therefore is not fair to an animal as much as I love them. If ever we meet on our journeys I may take Cody up on a pat. My dad whom was a postman always carried dog biscuits rather than mace and never had a problem with dogs. I think that this will be what I will do when living in a van.

[@CK.SEV3N]

Thank you Bob. I'm glad you addressed this topic.

[@tmad5358]

Sweet! I've been waiting for a pets series THANK YOU!

[@marko1314]

Wise words indeed - Which reminds of the very wisest advise l ever had the privilage of receiving about the contentment of these natural pack animals - Twas a short conversation with an 85 year sheep farmer in the mountains of Wales - After exchanging the usual pleasantries he noticed my new border terrier cross and exclaimed "Ah you gotta a dog boy?..." "Sure have" I replied to confirm his observation - "Yep a dog is a dog"..."Can't argue with that chief" l said slightly bemused -"Aye, and two dogs is half-a-dog and three is no dog at all". Now even though l took that pure solid gold on board more than twenty years ago now l still tell the missus if we do ever get a dog again we get a minimum of two.

[@cyndifoore7743]

Good advice Bob, I put my dog down in 2007 and it was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. Every time I think of getting another dog I talk myself out of it, I don’t ever want to do that again. I have a cat and I’m not sure I’ll get another after she’s gone. Since I’ll be close to 70 when that happens. I’ll have to be content visiting my grand dog.

[@leeannwolff6642]

I have three cats and a dog I'm about to hit the road with so this video is really timely. Thanks.

[@eirika2001]

Thanks for touching on this Bob...

[@christopherbradley5575]

Very good points on both pros and cons. Great video.

[@lrcremer]

Thank you Bob for your insight ,I just lost my Beloved Pup ,this morning after having her around for 14 years and I'm in tears on the hour, it hurts more than some human loved ones when they past, thank you again for all that you do ,and look after the tribe,much peace and love to all.

[@annsayger5842]

Raymond I am sorry for your loss. It does break your heart. I lost 2 cats after 14 yrs. It has been hard to move on. Thoughts and prayers.

[@lrcremer]

thank you Ruth Ann ,yes its going to be hard for awhile,pets become part of ones family and life,

[@lrcremer]

thank you Lou , its folks like yourselves , that makes me feel very grateful about human kind,

[@joanhazelgrove9444]

So sorry for your loss.

[@lrcremer]

thank you Joan ,I'm going to miss her for a good long time

[@francesb7515]

Thank you this is very relevant and close to the heart! I have to think of something as I have 2 cats and it will get too hot in the van while I work. I am thinking of getting a large catio or maybe a portable enclosed dog kennel with food, litter box so the coyotes won't eat them at the lot I am staying on. I have to think of cougars and bears so it will need to be sturdy and the kennels are like 150 lbs which I can't lift unless I can take it apart.

[@Joe44944]

Waw, pets or no pets I just want to say, what a breathtaking view! Thanks so much for the video, wonderful as always!

[@cindyc-thedogsandme.]

Yes, my dogs take lots of time and get muddy and shed lots. Good info.

[@genevafoust6031]

Hi Bob, This past RTR was one year on the road for my cat and myself. Everything you said is the plain truth. I have had 2 close calls with him escaping the rv. I got lucky and found him quickly. Also he doesn't travel well and get motion sick. Would I get another after him? Not as long as I am a nomad. Not fair to the animal.

[@TheFuzzieWuzzie]

Beverly Balius ~ I agree, cats are very territorial creatures as well. I know my young cat would not do well on the road and would be miserable and try to run away first chance he got. I plan on re-homing him. My old girl will probably be fine, she sleeps most of the time these days anyway.

[@StacyKiser]

Great Video! Thank you! I have seen owls swoop down and grab our neighbors chi.

[@HalkerVeil]

Cats on the road are about as difficult as having fuzzy dice on your mirror. They just lay in the windshield soaking up the sun all day. Except maybe they poop in a box once in a while. Also, a cat does know how to fend for themselves if they happen to get lost. Not many seem to know this but they are technically considered wild animals still because of that. They just use humans for an easy life when they can. But have no problem going out and catching mice, finding water, shelter. They even react to hawks instinctively by flattening themselves to the ground when they see their shadows. They even backflip to avoid snake bites. Unless your cat is fat. Then he's just a big twinky out there.

[@ayema5449]

Thank you, Bob, for sharing this priceless information based on much experience, knowledge, and intelligence!

[@vivalafrance9547]

we learned a lesson, when it was super hot, that the camper AC won't work without electric plug in. We couldn't leave the dogs in the car or the camper because it was too hot

[@MarieSmith-hn3qt]

Great video Bob

[@adventurebythemile]

I have a vehicle harness and a strip that plugs into the seat belt. Also locking your car or van, having your dog on a leash a tie out, microchiping will help.

[@martinfamilyband]

Obviously not Florida. One thing I have noticed about RVs and people who have RVs, most have a dog. You have made some good points and things to look out for. We always take our little dog on the road with us and she is a great traveler. Thanks for your videos. You must have a very good camera. The video quality and sound are great.

[@garysoutandaboutadventures9373]

Very well done Bob excellent video

[@shannmartin9361]

There are pros and cons to everything, even traveling with a spouse or partner has it's issues, added expenses,conflicts,illnesses,physical limitations, getting in your personal space but then again there's Protection/safety in numbers, companionship, emotional support. My elderly mother would be lost without her little dog for company she feels useful having something to take care of that depends on her and in return her little dog show her much needed love and affection, to her the pros far outweigh the cons. I personally enjoy my dog's company over most people. It's a personal choice.

[@stephenkrukowski7990]

All being said it's just nice to have a buddy the good outweights the bad.

[@andrewconway7730]

Good video. Only time I would get a pet in a van is if I was parked on someone's property. Seems like too much hassle when traveling.

[@tmbuchtel]

I guess I needed to hear that. Thanks, Bob.

[@gooseknack]

Travelling with a dog, it's not for everyone. Here, I speak of Australia, a place that has been described as "dog mad". My sister and I are currently travelling for a third time. I can say, with no doubt, that travelling on the road with dogs, pets, isn't a problem. We travelled with 2 Labradors (and 6 cats) and the only issue we encountered, was wet weather! You might be mistaken for thinking it was muddy feet and wet coats...... It wasn't. It was getting them out beyond the tarp and tent... They hated the rain but would gladly go stomping in puddles and then lay in them after it stopped..😂.. It's a Labrador thing! We are missing the antics as we lost each one, a year apart from each other, they were born a year apart. You mentioned financial costs, that is an issue. After having my Labrador Bronson for nearly 9 years, I can say his(and Sandy's) costs were inconsequential to his life. It was only in his last few months that his vet bill was higher than it had ever been, around $5000 accumulated over a 1 month period. He had severe pancreatitis and diabetes, the latter was an unknown illness that caused the first. The vet allowed me to pay it off, still doing so, more than a year later. My advice, talk to your vet if the bill is higher than you can pay. Often with a modest down-payment($400 usual), vets here in Australia will work with you. If you have a regular travel route, consult with vets along the way, so they get to know you! All in all, it's best to save for the proverbial rainy day.. Down here in Australia, the greatest danger is snakes and spiders. The wedge tailed eagle(stands near 1 metre tall) being an issue for smaller dogs and animals. Even hawks have been known to take small animals as well. And of course, roads pose the same issue. Australia is pretty liberal and free where pets are concerned. You can go almost anywhere, barring national parks and some conservation areas as dogs simply aren't allowed in them here. We had walked our Labradors down main streets(on leash) in Australian towns and cities with no issue. We had been from caravan parks to state forests to state parks(most allow dogs here) to crown or public land. It works, because the one law common across Australia, is dogs must be "on leash" or tied via rope or chain when in public places. Dogs running free is frowned on, unless it's a designated off leash area. Indeed, many who allow their dogs off to roam, have fellow travellers/nomads point it out to them, very quickly! As a few areas have been closed to dogs due to free roaming dogs creating a nuisance for others. It also prevents the issue of your dog running off.. The other couple of laws are also simple, dogs must be harnessed and secured to a seat belt while in a car or chained to the back of a ute. In some states, you must pick up your dogs poo. The last one is quite an offense if you leave it behind(pun intended). How they plan to police it, is beyond me.. Most do the right thing and carry dog doo bags. Overall, Australia is a great and friendly place to travel. The people are friendly and very tolerant. Dogs, simply aren't an issue.

[@meinschatzi8978]

A very honest video. Thank you, Bob.

[@marketshare5273]

Nice job on the video you also could add ticks Lime disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever which both can affect humans and rattlesnake.

[@singmysong1167]

I was thinking of that, plus fleas, and bringing them into one's little sleeping/living/eating space.

[@joniloverin7343]

I have my lab/dane on the road or just living with me full time in a teeny tiny van. It is a problem when I want to do something where dogs arent allowed to be. Especially hiking and backpacking, but, that would be a problem even if I owned a stationary place. I shop when its cool and I wouldnt think of doing my life without my dog. I wont replace her when she goes maybe, but for now I can deal with the extra work and restrictions.

[@Japhill75]

Wow ... look at that location. As usual a very smart conversation starter.

[@susiepittman601]

Good points, but I'd be lost without them.

[@ramblingruby8027]

I sleep in a sand pile! I have a small dog and she is usually covered with sand, when she shakes the sand goes everywhere, but mostly ends up in my bed. I wouldn't want to go anywhere without her, and she is never off lease.

[@noras.5355]

Very good, sad, and informative video. Thank you Bob.

[@lindylund280]

Dogs offer some protection by way of warning and/or deterring bad guys. I would think a dog might take some “stealth” out of stealth camping between barking and potty needs.

[@sueg2658]

Good info and heart wrenching points you made

[@sallyflavell6221]

Dogs are a big responsibility and need us to survive. Many get them for selfish reasons and complain about the cost etc so its good you talk so honestly. My dog chases anything that moves so probably not a good dog to have round bears or cats or big birds!?!😂 I doubt i have the stamina for travel or the concentration so am quite happy at home. Lucky me to have a home! Feel for those who have to give up their fur babies😢 I would die without my dog! Best friend i have❤

[@radagast6322]

I love your videos, they give me a small shred of hope. I hope in Cody's absence that you'd consider rescuing a senior dog; I'm sure they'd love your company.

[@davids219]

For all of the negatives a dog has the unconditional love they provide is priceless and not an option for me I love my dog !

[@cyclingjoe7663]

Thank you for sharing all the honest truths, I see how true they are x

[@Iknowonlywhatimtaught]

Hi Bob, I am still researching items I could help make life a little less like camping, like shower. I watched the shower video but if you have or access to an eco-temp tankless hot water heater and made a video of it I think it would help to see it in action if all possible. I am somewhat confused about a tankless water heater. I know RVs have them but that tanks with (I would guess have) pumps in the tank. How would it get water in the unit? Any help understanding better would be every much appreciated. Very good video I learn a lot for these videos, thank so much for your love of other that are or may be placing themselves in this life style. Bless you.

[@elsalee2656]

Thanks, Bob , this was good.I worry about Cody getting bit in the face when he's running around in the bush when you do your u .tbes . I wonder if he has been trained for that and if you have a snake kit. It would be good maybe to have a class at RTR on that. Snake kit runs about 30.00 and a first aid kit.I see Caravan Carolyn has something going on with her cat. Hope all goes well with her kitty. To have a little one is 24 -7. That is lf you're a good parent. Hope to see you one day Bob.

[@busaj383]

I had a few dogs over the years and had to rehome my little dog after 6 years because I had to travel too much with work and it was the best thing I ever did. She was a good dog but now I don't have any of those resposibilies to do, like walking, feeding, evening having to return home at all. Not even talking about any of the costs, but them myself I would never have anything done than shots for a dog. I couldn't even imagine having an animal with me in an RV ...no thanks.

[@annettesmith6241]

Fair video Bob, people should think always consider both sides of the equation.

[@livinglife8333]

I have two small dogs and they are extra work but they are my sunshine. I absolutely could not live without them, but we have an RV.

[@mayinnlin1879]

Thank you Bob for sharing! 👍😍

[@grayeagleswolves]

Great video Bob Thank you

[@JodysJourney]

All good points, even for those in a sticks and brick. As for me, I couldn’t live without my fur babies (two cats and a dog). One positive for my dog as a traveler will be the opportunity to visit dog parks and hike trails that are just not around where I currently live (in a small town in the middle of nowhere). 😀

[@wonderinghoosierboondocker8552]

Another awesome video Bob and one that’s very important to a lot of people,Great advice,Thanks Bob and have a nice night and be safe sir ...

[@evelyngarcia4551]

Thank u so much for having table of contents to make it easy to revisit later. Thanks again. About to take on my minivan build. If you read this, if u have any videos on a Honda Odyssey type van please give me link. I'm only a third thru your stuff. Lol I'm trying

[@FLsaltinmyhair]

Mercy no...do not want to die in my van and have a little one there waiting on someone to rescue her. And I don't want to be her food if we are together until she's found. Eeks! Many other good reasons as you mentioned to carefully consider not having a dog on the road. Thanks Bob...

[@taurus-astrobike104]

YES Bob... UR CORRECT on all points.. As realistically TRUE positive & negative... IT scares me about OUR life's span TOO ,But TRUTHS be told BUDDY 😕 THANKYOU FOR SHARING ✌ 💘 HAPPINESS MY FRIEND & SAFE TRAVELLING..

[@teamcougars]

Great video, but also some very good reasons to adopt a senior dog vs a young dog.

[@sallysummerfield9952]

A beneficial discussion