When we decided to move to Mexico, we had to figure out what to do with our dog, Sasha. Our son was willing to take her, but that would be difficult since he’s in an apartment and still has a couple more years of university. We decided taking her with us to Mexico was the best option, feeling that once we were here, she would enjoy the freedom afforded by our new living arrangements – a big yard and having us around more often. We had never driven with her farther than to the vet or to the nearby hills for a walk, but hey, we said we’re looking for adventure, right?

First, I have to say a big thank you to my brother. Our first stop on the US portion of our trip was at my brother’s house in Southern California, where we visited for a few days. During a conversation about Sasha, he agreed to let her stay with him for the duration of our US travels, about five weeks. We are so grateful for this; it would have been a very different trip if we’d had to bring her with us across the country and back!

Once we returned to Southern California and picked up Sasha for the trip to Mexico, she actually traveled very well in the van. Her crate was on top of other stuff in the van so that she could watch out the window as we drove along. She seemed to really enjoy it. We stopped often to let her out for a break.

It almost seemed like she knew how to behave, too. Several times, people approached the van to wash our windows or sell us some snacks, and Sasha would bark at them. Then one time a police officer motioned us aside to check our papers, and she sat silently. I don’t think the officer even knew she was with us!

Since arriving at our destination, Sasha has adapted quickly. She loves the big yard. She gets more walks than in the past, since we walk most places rather than driving everywhere. She even has a new friend that she doesn’t argue with much – Maricela’s aunt has a dog, and the two of them get along very well.

So we’re happy we made the right decision. Sasha is happy to be here with us, we’re happy to have her here, and the process of getting her here was not too bad!