We are long time dog lovers and owners and had to say goodbye to our house dog 'Petey' a few months ago due to cancer. I had been idlly thinking about getting another puppy, but had planned on waiting until after our big summer trip.
However, we came across an opportunity to welcome a new puppy into the home (long story) and when we went to see the puppies, we ended up coming home with two. (Hubby and I couldn't agree on which one we wanted, so I guess we have 'his' and 'hers' now.) Unfortunately, the pups turned out to be only 4 weeks old. Really, REALLY too young to be away from their mom, and barely eating solids, but as the lady was going to get rid of them that day, it was either go home with us and we finish raising them up, or go to a potentially worse situation.
Thankfully they are doing great a week later - we've got them on the right food for weaning and they are going to be great dogs. They are very healthy and smart, already responding well when called and haven't done #2 in the house since we got them on food they can actually digest. #1 training will take a while since they are still so young, but I think once they are are physically capable of holding their bladders, they will train really quickly. They are already going on the wee-wee pads exclusively in their X-pen, and know that outside is potty time.
Now, the camping question...
We are leaving first week in June for a 5 week trip. We COULD leave the pups at home since there will be someone at home while we are gone. However, they will just be at the age when consistent potty training is crucial (about 12 weeks when we leave). I'm hesitant to leave that to be someone else's responsibilty, and I think with their personalities, they will do pretty well adapting to changing locations and the travel. Plus the person at home is elderly and I'm concerned that two boisterous puppies run the risk of tripping her up and/or being too much for her to handle.
So, obviously I'm considering taking them with us. Just a few questions as we have never travelled with a dog before, not to mention ones that are still babies.
1) Anyone out there travelled with a pup this young? Any advice or suggestions?
2) They will be too young for Rabies vaccine until about the time we are almost home. I would think a vet's travel certification and proof of other vaccination would be sufficient given their age, but any thoughts?
3) Anyone have experience with the kennel at the Grand Canyon S. Rim? We are doing an overnight mule trail ride while there, and that is the only time we would not be able to take them more or less to the places we are seeing, or be leaving them alone for reasonable time in the camper.
Just trying to get a feel if I'm crazy even to think about taking them, or if those who have been there/done that can reassure me that we will be OK.
And, I hope I added the pictures OK. these pups are just too cute! From what we were told, the mom is an austrailian Shepherd and the dad a Corgie. Oh, and the question is about the canines - the human kids are coming either way as THEY are all up to date on shots and potty trained.
Waaaay tooooooooooo Cuuuuuuuuute!
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