Traveling with Cats and Dogs: Meet Our Bus Crew

Illustration of a rustic orange bus carrying seven relaxed cats of various colors, evoking the whimsical spirit of traveling with cats.

Traveling with cats and dogs full-time means we share our converted school bus with 2 dogs and 7 cats. When people hear this, we usually get one of two reactions: “That’s amazing!” or “Are you completely insane?” We’re leaning toward delightfully chaotic.

Traveling with cats and dogs means learning each animal’s quirks, respecting their routines, and embracing the unexpected. From claimed window seats to complex territorial agreements over who sleeps where, our nine pets have all adapted to bus life in their own way.

The Dogs: Jemma and Louie

Our two dogs aren’t in charge of the bus (the cats made sure of that), but they’re essential members of our traveling crew. They’re our bark-powered security system, emotional support specialists, and the reason we always know where the good dog parks are.

Jemma: The Sweet Muscle

Also known as: Dilemna, Brown Clown, and The Caramel Sentinel

Jemma is fiercely protective, deeply loyal, and mildly dramatic. She adores the cats, chases them for fun, and defends them like they’re her own puppies. Strangers? Not her thing. Emotional support? She’ll be under the bed.

Jemma, a caramel-brown pitbull, curled up on a dark blanket with her head resting against a gray cushion, gazing softly at the camera

Jemma, a caramel-brown pitbull, lying on a blue blanket with a black cat snuggled against her chest, both resting peacefully in front of a red wall with stuffed animals.

Jemma, a caramel-brown pitbull with a white chest, wearing a gray hoodie and flashing a toothy grin, lounging indoors with a TV and household items in the background.

Jemma, a caramel-brown pitbull, lying on a blue blanket with white yarn tangled around her face and paw, staring intently at the camera in a moment of quiet mischief

Jemma, a caramel-brown pitbull, resting with her head on a black and tan dog’s side, both lying on a blanket in a cozy indoor setting, showing their close bond and gentle nature.

Jemma, a caramel-brown pitbull with light eyes, sitting alert on a gray floor with a red and purple leash attached, gazing directly at the camera with quiet strength

Jemma, a caramel-brown pitbull, resting her head gently on a fluffy light-colored cat nestled beside her on a blanket, capturing a quiet moment of interspecies affection indoors.

This gorgeous mixed breed beauty has the heart of a guardian wrapped in the sweetest caramel-colored coat you’ve ever seen. Her protective instincts make her an excellent watchdog, though she’s more likely to hide behind Louie when actual confrontation arises.

What makes Jemma special is her unique relationship with our seven cats. While many people struggle with traveling with cats and dogs together, Jemma has appointed herself as the unofficial kitten babysitter. She’ll chase them playfully through the bus, then curl up protectively nearby when they nap.

Road life has brought out Jemma’s more dramatic tendencies. She’s developed an elaborate morning routine that involves checking every window, sniffing every corner, and ensuring her humans are properly awake before she’ll consider breakfast.

Louie: The Emotional Support Puggle

Also known as: LouDog, Louis, and Louis Navidog

Louie is the emotional support dog for everyone—Jemma, the cats, the humans. He’s the first responder to sadness, the peacekeeper, and our bark-powered alarm system. He doesn’t play with the cats—he watches over them.

Louie, a small black and brown dog, resting his head on a gray pillow beside a Cabbage Patch Kid doll in a blue outfit, with yarn and household items in the background.”

Louie, a small puggle, dressed in a blue and red shirt with a green patterned scarf, sitting on a blue cushion with a gray pillow behind him, serving serious style and syndicate charm

Louie, a small puggle, wrapped in a white towel and sitting on a gray floor with a purple leash nearby, looking freshly bathed and mildly unimpressed.

Louie, a small black and brown puggle with a blue collar, lying beside a white kitten with gray markings and blue eyes, both resting on a bed with colorful pillows and a light purple blanket.

Louie, a small black and tan puggle with a chain collar, lying alert on a blanket indoors, with another dog resting nearby and a window in the background.

Louie, a small black and brown puggle, sitting on green grass in a wooded area, looking toward the camera with trees and a grassy field in the background

Louie, a small puggle, lying on a bed partially covered by a green and white checkered blanket, resting his head on a black pillow with white triangles, surrounded by colorful cushions in a cozy indoor setting.

Louie, a small puggle with a chain collar, lying on a soft blanket in a cozy wooden room, paws stretched out as he relaxes in a cabin-like setting.

Louie’s puggle heritage (pug and beagle mix) gives him the perfect combination of sturdy determination and gentle sensitivity. His compact size makes him ideal for bus living, while his big personality ensures he’s never overlooked despite sharing space with seven cats and another dog.

Louie takes his role seriously. He has established patrol routes throughout the bus, specific times for checking on each cat, and different barks for different types of visitors. Fellow travelers often comment on his professional demeanor—he’s serious about his job, but always ready for belly rubs during off-duty hours.

Traveling with Cats and Dogs: What We’ve Learned

The Cats: Seven Feline Road Warriors

Our feline crew didn’t all start this journey with us. Some joined along the way—like Bean, who literally hitched a ride by clinging to our fuel tank for 50 miles in the rain. Others, like our newest addition Pikle, found us just when they needed a home on wheels.

Traveling with cats full-time isn’t just possible—it’s our everyday reality. Each cat has adapted to bus life in their own way, proving that with patience and the right setup, cats can thrive on the road.

Heddy – The Queen

White cat with grey tabby head, 3 years old

Don’t let her dusty appearance fool you—Heddy runs this show. She’s mastered the art of the judgmental stare and prefers her dirt-rolling to any grooming attempts. Sister to Scabbers, but definitely the one in charge.

Travel Style: Claims the driver’s seat when parked, judges our route choices

A sleek white cat lies curled on the ground at the base of a tree, surrounded by grass, fallen leaves, and small twigs. Her eyes are partially closed in peaceful rest, and her body is tucked in a relaxed posture. The tree’s trunk and earthy textures frame the scene, suggesting a quiet moment in a natural outdoor setting.

A sleek white cat with subtle dark markings on the head rests on a floral-patterned cushion. Her body is curled comfortably, and her head lies against the cushion while she looks directly at the camera. The rich pinks, reds, and greens of the cushion’s design complement her pristine fur, creating a cozy yet regal ambiance.

A sleek white cat with faint gray markings lies curled on a gray surface, nestled beside a green and blue knit blanket. Her head rests gently on the soft texture, and her body is tucked in a peaceful sleep posture. A white cable hangs in the background, adding a casual touch to the cozy domestic scene.

A sleek white cat with pale gray markings sits on a textured beige carpet, her body angled away but her head turned toward the camera. Her piercing blue eyes meet the viewer with quiet intensity. A woven basket sits nearby, and the wooden floor behind her adds warmth to the indoor setting. The moment captures her serene composure and subtle alertness—command presence in a domestic frame.

A white cat with blue eyes lounges on a wooden shelf beside three hand-knitted dolls. The dolls wear colorful scarves and hats, adding a playful contrast to the feline’s serene, watchful pose. Positioned to the right of the trio, the cat faces the camera with quiet command—suggesting soft leadership and shelf-top surveillance within the Traveling Cat Syndicate.

Scabbers – The Road Captain

Gray tabby mix, 3 years old

Small but mighty, Scabbers takes bus security seriously. This guy is surprisingly sweet with our dog Jemma but maintains professional distance with everyone else. Heddy’s littermate but happy to let her handle management.

Travel Style: Patrols the perimeter at every stop, suspicious of all newcomers

A gray cat with soft fur and piercing green eyes stands confidently on a wooden surface. The backdrop features wood paneling, giving the scene a cozy, cabin-like atmosphere. The cat’s direct gaze and alert posture suggest curiosity and quiet authority, like they’re assessing the room with focused intent.

A gray cat lounges on a wooden surface beside a crocheted sunflower, gently resting one paw atop the vibrant yellow petals. A round checkered pillow and green houseplants frame the scene, with an AeroPress coffee maker visible in the background. The overall setting radiates warmth and creativity, as if Scabbers has commandeered a crafts-and-coffee outpost for syndicate snoozing.

A gray cat walks atop a concrete barrier in a snowy landscape. Frost-covered bushes and trees fill the background, while the sky glows softly with the light of a rising or setting sun. The contrast between the chilly environment and the warm sunburst creates a cinematic atmosphere, as Scabbers moves through the wintry scene with quiet determination.

A gray cat with green eyes lies in the foreground on a wooden kitchen counter, positioned in front of a silver appliance, possibly a pressure cooker. Behind him, a black-and-white cat with blue eyes sits upright on the same surface, surrounded by various household items including a glass and kitchen accessories. The scene captures a candid moment of two cats occupying the same space—one relaxed, the other poised—creating a layered sense of syndicate hierarchy and domestic chaos.

A gray cat and a light beige cat lie close together on a wooden surface. The beige cat rests its head gently atop the gray cat’s side, while both appear relaxed with eyes partially closed. Behind them, a window offers a view of green trees and grass, adding a natural glow to the cozy indoor scene. The moment radiates calm intimacy and quiet trust between the two companions.

Phil – The Reluctant Traveler

Ragdoll, 2 years old

Phil would prefer we just stayed put, thank you very much. He tolerates the travel lifestyle because he’s incredibly attached to his humans, but he makes his displeasure known through strategic flopping and the occasional grumpy meep.

Travel Style: Luxury accommodations required, complains about everything, somehow always gets the best spots

A black and white cat with striking blue eyes sits confidently on a wooden surface. His coat is plush, with a white chest, white paws, and a dark face that highlights his intense gaze. Behind him, the backdrop features a bold mix of pink and gray hues, and a partially visible green box adds a pop of contrast. The overall scene blends boutique elegance with operative poise—like Phil’s overseeing syndicate affairs from a pop-art penthouse.

A black and white cat with a pink nose lounges gracefully on a soft blanket. His fur is long and luxurious, with distinct patches of dark and light tones that accentuate his relaxed pose. He gazes off with calm indifference, partially stretched out with one paw extended. The background features warm wooden tones and soft fabric textures, completing the scene with an air of domestic luxury.

A black and white cat with plush fur lounges inside a wooden cabinet, nestled among everyday items. His body rests partially atop a box labeled "Johnny's Pigeons," and his eyes are closed in peaceful sleep. Surrounding him are a stainless steel appliance, a green container with a red lid, and assorted household objects. The scene blends quiet absurdity with feline elegance, as Phil turns a cluttered nook into a deluxe loaf sanctuary.

A plush black and white cat lounges on a wooden surface beside a bunch of bananas. His paw rests casually on the fruit, which bears small sticker labels. Behind him, various leafy plants create a lush backdrop. Phil’s relaxed posture and the absurd juxtaposition of snack and surveillance give the scene a cheeky blend of elegance and eccentricity.

A black and white cat with plush fur and piercing blue eyes rests atop an orange cloth under a wooden structure. His head is nestled against one of the wooden supports, and he gazes directly at the camera with calm intensity. The orange fabric enhances the warmth of the scene, while the wooden backdrop gives it a cozy, refined tone.

Bean – The Surprise Hitchhiker

Orange tabby, 2 years old

Our accidental crew member who proved his dedication by riding our fuel tank through a rainstorm. Our Gingey Bean has come a long way from feral hitchhiker to fiercely loyal companion, with a spicy streak that keeps us on our toes.

Travel Style: Under-bus security specialist, communicates entirely in urgent chirps

A light-colored cat sits beside a potted plant blooming with pink flowers. The backdrop is soft and blurred, with gray and white patterns that frame the scene like wallpaper. Bean’s posture is upright and quietly dignified, as if stationed there for surveillance or aesthetic excellence. The floral element adds a delicate contrast to his neutral tones, creating a warm and whimsical moment of stillness.

A light orange tabby cat lounges in a cozy nook surrounded by a mix of everyday objects, including a blue and white plastic bag and a textured cushion. His front paw is raised slightly as he stretches or grooms, eyes relaxed and half-closed. The warm tones of his fur and laid-back demeanor give the scene an intimate glimpse into his quiet daily rhythm.

A pale cream-colored cat sits confidently on a wooden shelf positioned under a ceiling made of visible planks. Surrounding him are assorted objects including a black box and white item, lending the space a cozy, slightly cluttered feel. Bean stares directly at the camera, his posture upright and his gaze calm, giving the impression he’s surveying his domain from a private command perch.

A pale orange tabby cat lies comfortably on a dark blue blanket spread over a bed. His head rests gently on a beige pillow, and he’s positioned near a window that offers a peek of a wooden outdoor structure. The soft lighting and peaceful pose give the scene a quiet, relaxed energy—like Bean has claimed this nap station as part of his daily syndicate briefing ritual.

A light orange tabby cat lies sprawled on a bed, his body elongated and head tilted back in a wide yawn. His mouth is open, revealing teeth and tongue in a moment of pure feline expression. A striped pillow and orange blanket add cozy contrast behind him, emphasizing the relaxed, intimate setting. The scene captures a candid burst of personality—equal parts nap mode and operatic flair.

Wes – The Social Butterfly

Black domestic shorthair, 6 months

Wes treats every new campground like a networking opportunity. He’s mastered the art of the drive-by shoulder bump and never met a fence he couldn’t scale, a neighbor he couldn’t charm, or a rule he couldn’t bend.

Travel Style: Campground ambassador, unauthorized meet-and-greets with locals

A black cat curled snugly inside a large stainless steel mixing bowl, resting atop a wooden surface. Kitchen utensils and a dish rack fill the background, giving the scene a domestic backdrop. Wes fits perfectly, his glossy fur gleaming against the reflective metal, as if the bowl were custom-designed for feline loaf containment.

A black cat lies on a wooden surface, gently cradling a plush beige stuffed llama and grooming it. His head rests against it, eyes half-closed in peaceful repose. Nearby sit a pink textured item and a small cactus, adding quirky warmth to the background. The scene feels soft and surreal—like Wes has temporarily swapped espionage for emotional support duty.

A black cat sleeps curled inside a small gray container placed on a wooden surface. His sleek black fur fills the bowl to the brim, making his loaf shape appear almost molded to fit. The tight fit gives the scene an air of playful absurdity—like Wes selected the least ergonomic nap pod on purpose just to prove he could.

Two black cats rest closely together on a cozy surface, their heads gently touching. One has a small white patch on its chest and contrasting white whiskers, while the other is entirely black. They’re nestled beside potted plants and a wooden structure, forming a quiet duet of feline serenity and sibling synergy.

A black cat sits alert on a narrow wooden shelf mounted to a door with frosted glass panels. Soft light filters in from outside, illuminating his silhouette against the dim interior. He looks upward as if tracking movement above, calm yet vigilant—clearly overseeing hallway operations from his elevated command post.

LaLa – The Supervisor

Tuxedo mix, 6 months

Tiny but loud, LaLa has appointed herself supervisor of all dog walks and general activities. She takes her responsibilities very seriously and makes sure everyone knows when protocol isn’t being followed.

Travel Style: Vocal activity coordinator, prefers to supervise adventures from the safety of the bus

: A black and white cat stands on a wooden table, gazing out the window with alert posture. Potted plants—succulents, vines, and hanging greenery—line the windowsill, and a soft green field stretches outside. Light spills in around her as she surveys the scene, regal and entirely absorbed in whatever mystery lies beyond the glass.

A black and white cat with vivid yellow eyes lies stretched on a wooden surface, one paw dangling lazily over the edge. She locks eyes with the camera, her gaze intense and unimpressed. Behind her sits a tangle of colorful yarn and scattered supplies, as if she’s claiming dominion over the crafting zone with soft paws and silent judgment.

A black and white cat sleeps curled inside a glass baking dish on a wooden table. Her compact loaf posture fits snugly into the dish, surrounded by nearby kitchen items—a hanging cloth above and a round bowl beside her. The scene is cozy yet absurdly charming, like she’s claimed the casserole pan as her official nap module.

A black and white cat sits confidently on the steering wheel of a vehicle in motion, gazing ahead like she’s co-piloting the mission. A tattooed arm steers while green trees and grass blur past the windshield. Her yellow collar with bell adds the perfect touch of prancy authority—LaLa, en route to somewhere important, and fully in charge of the vibe.

A black and white cat rests on a striped red and yellow blanket, front paws gracefully crossed. Her white fur pops against the bold colors, and her gaze drifts toward someone nearby holding a red object—possibly a guitar or ukulele. The scene blends cozy calm with a touch of musical chaos, as if LaLa is overseeing soundcheck before her next big loaf performance.

Pikle – Newest Addition

Black and white kitten, ~2 months old

Our latest rescue is still settling in and hasn’t fully revealed her travel personality yet. So far she’s shown a preference for sock baths and has mastered the art of the therapeutic purr.

Travel Style: Still in training

A tiny black and white kitten sits on a wooden surface, licking her nose in mid-motion. She’s positioned next to a large rustic bowl, surrounded by potted plants and warm wooden textures—curious, cozy, and clearly mid-snack surveillance

A black and white kitten with wide eyes and a pink nose peeks out from a narrow space between a silvery reflective surface and a cushion. Her whiskers catch the light as she surveys the camera, cloaked in a sliver of shadow—partially hidden, fully adorable, and likely casing the perimeter for snack protocol breaches

A black and white kitten lies curled on a soft blue blanket, nestled between a beige pillow and gray cushion. Her white paws tuck beneath her chest, and her face rests near the folds of the blanket—eyes closed, completely at peace and wrapped in the kind of safety reserved for high-ranking loaf commanders.

A black and white kitten naps on a soft blue surface, cradled between two white, textured cushions. Her fur blends with the shadows of the pillows, and her small body curves delicately against the backdrop—resting with quiet authority in a space clearly claimed

Life on the Road with Nine Pets

What traveling with cats and dogs really looks like!

Our morning routine starts with Jemma’s theatrical wake-up call, followed by Louie’s security check and various cats claiming their favorite window spots. Both dogs have adapted to the rhythm of road life, understanding that some days we drive for hours while others we stay put and explore.

Feeding time is the one thing we don’t wing—we set alarms to make sure everyone gets fed on time. The dogs know the drill: wait patiently (ish), dodge the cats, and claim their corner when the bowls hit the floor. Most of our cats prefer the great outdoors for their bathroom breaks, with only the tiniest kittens using the onboard litter box.

Exercise is crucial when traveling with dogs in a small space. We’ve discovered dog-friendly parks and trails across the country, always making sure our larger vehicle can actually park there. The cats, meanwhile, have claimed every window and established complex territorial agreements about who sleeps where.

Every window has been claimed by someone, and we’ve become experts at finding pet-friendly campgrounds and businesses across the country. They’ve seen more of America than most people—from desert sunrises in Arizona to coastal fog in Oregon.

All our pets are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up-to-date on vaccinations. Considering traveling with cats and dogs? Always consult with your vet first and research pet-friendly accommodations along your route. When we’re on the road, we use Vetster for virtual vet visits—it’s fast, flexible, and perfect for travel days or late-night pet drama.

Want more pet travel resources? Check out our complete pet travel guide for dog parks, wash stations, and pet-friendly businesses we’ve found along the way.