NC to Los Angeles, April or May, with dog - how long with sightseeing ?

[NC_B]

Hi all,

Am thinking of relocating from North Carolina to Los Angeles. I'll be driving in a Honda HRV with my dog. Wish my car were a little larger for this. I've wanted to do this road trip forever!

I definitely want to see the Grand Canyon. It will be just me and the dog, so I have to weigh what I want to do very carefully versus making sure my dog is safe. We are pros at long road trips and she's great in the car, but I obviously can't leave her in it to overheat while I go off and do things.

I think finding places to pee while with dog is the greater issue that will take improvising in the southwest.

Anyway, I don't actually have time constraints, so I'm wondering how long to take? My job is ending so now is the time to make the leap. I'm a single 52-year-old woman if that makes a difference but forget the age, please :)

Would like to budget and stay in hotels sometimes, but maybe campgrounds sometimes. The dog will not be contained in a tent, so I'd need to sleep in the car. Wish I had an RV. Thanks!

• How long should I allow for the drive?
• Are there any doggie day cares or boarding spots that stand out?
• What's a must-see that won't be a danger to the puppo?
• Safe campgrounds that will let me sleep in the car?
• Anything else I need to know ?