Aluminum toppers and vent/fans?
Posted by Compostable_rat@reddit | overlanding | View on Reddit | 6 comments
Hi,
I've combed through many subs and am not finding great answers on this. I will be doing a cross country trip lasting up to two months. I have no choice but to take my dog. He is small, 7 lbs. I have been looking into the Maxxair fans that are 12v, 14x14 to put into the top of my shell. At 14x14 that is pretty large though and Maxxair is pricey. Does anyone have a similar system and can advise? I will be visiting national parks and would like to leave him at least for an hour so I can hike on non-dog friendly trails.
lucky_ducker@reddit
I would never cut through the top of a truck shell. Maybe just open the topper's windows, maybe look into a fan just inside the window to ensure that there is positive ventilation.
Compostable_rat@reddit (OP)
Any particular reason why or just preference?
Rude-Question2441@reddit
Cutting a hole through the top of a truck shell would be inviting a place for water to leak through.
FrogFlavor@reddit
I am curious about small fans too but why can’t you just… open the windows.
I leave my windows down and (big) dog in the cab of my truck all the time like if I have to go shopping. I have a pretty new truck. No one’s ever messed with the dog or rifled through my stuff. I have yet to experiment with leaving dog in the camper shell but I mean your dog is the size of a boot, the cab or shell are equally appropriate. I do put a sunshade on the window and/or park in the shade for maximum dog comfort.
Compostable_rat@reddit (OP)
Lmao yes he is the size of a boot. I am getting him a cooling mat, which I've read good things about. I'm worried about how hot it gets. I will be on the west coast visiting Redwood areas, Zion, Yosemite, etc. I do plan on using the methods you mentioned - blocking windows, parking in shade, etc.
FrogFlavor@reddit
I’ve heard it suggested elsewhere of getting a dog sitter off an app, to do non-dog things while on the road.
Personally I don’t plan on going to any NPs while I have this dog (I foster). The plenty of beautiful places that allow dogs, like state parks, national forests, blm etc. it’s like traveling with children, or an RV. The team and the ride determines the destination. Don’t try to strongarm a mismatch.