DireWolf Express - Accommodations
DireWolf Dogs always receive first-class treatment!
We use various-sized, heavy duty wire mess crates with two openings, one in the front and one on the side. Each crate has a thick plastic crate bottom that slides into the crate in a slit between the wire mesh. This crate bottom protects little puppy paws from wire cuts and sores. The bottom is then covered with a thick, waterproof protective blanket and topped with clean, dry towels. This combination makes for quite a comfortable ride. Each crate comes equipped with a large leak proof dog water feeder that opens from the top to pour in fresh, clean water as we travel. They also have safe chews and toys inside their spaces so that they have plenty to do while we travel down the road. Two or three puppies from the same litter may share a crate so that they are not lonely throughout the trip.

Every DireWolf Express trip travels down the highways in a red 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. All of the back seats fold down into the undercarriage of the car to reveal an expansive space for lots of dogs. We can take up to six crates housing eighteen 8-week-old puppies and two medium crates housing four 16-week-old puppies, but there are lots of different possible combinations! The greatest thing about the Chrysler Pacifica is that is receives excellent gas mileage for a van of its size, frequently reaching between 28 - 30 miles per gallon over the course of the trip.

Each driver sleeps WITH the puppies in the car at night! This is to ensure the safety of the precious cargo inside. The driver can hear the puppies when they rise and need to go potty. The driver can also lock the doors from the inside and secure the entire space for the night. We also bring along reflective window shades that darken the entire interior for a restful night at campgrounds or rest areas. When street lights shine brightly to lighten the area, all of the DireWolf Dogs and the driver are encased in darkness for the best sleep possible during the trip. The driver lays out a foam pad across the front driver's and passenger's seats, then prompts him or herself up with pillows and blankets to stay as warm and comfortable as possible. We have also created a screen system that can allow the driver to open the windows at night to allow a cooler airflow during the hot summer months without fear of dastardly mosquitoes causing havoc during our travels. We take along fans that run on a portable lithium battery for the hottest nights.
All drivers must stop at least every four hours to allow the DireWolf Dogs on board to potty and stretch their legs. It helps the driver regain some much needed energy and revitalizes everyone for the next part of the trip. The driver chooses a spot away from other people and dogs, as often as possible. This is for the safety of each DireWolf Dog, since some are young puppies with minimal vaccines. We also watch for any signs of stress during the trip, including diarrhea and/or vomiting. There is always a first aid kit on hand and extra water for any emergencies.