Sean Smith

Hi, I’m Sean Smith, a dog lover, outdoor explorer, and founder of PupTrail Journal, a blog devoted to helping people travel meaningfully with their dogs across the United States.

Based in the mountain town of Asheville, North Carolina, I’ve spent the last several years combining two of my greatest passions—road trips and dogs—into a lifestyle and platform that inspires others to hit the road with their four-legged companions. My journey began with one dog, one map, and a mission to discover how to travel with pets safely, comfortably, and with purpose.

Today, PupTrail Journal reaches fellow adventurers, solo nomads, and dog parents who don’t want to leave their pets behind when they explore the world. Whether it’s finding the most scenic dog-friendly routes, reviewing pet travel gear, or spotlighting welcoming towns and trails, my goal is to turn planning stress into excitement and empower you to create lasting memories with your dog—mile after mile.

My Mission: Helping You Travel Better with Dogs

Traveling with dogs in the U.S. can be an incredible experience—but only if you’re well-prepared. I started writing because I realized there was a gap in trustworthy, experience-based content for people who wanted to take their dogs along for the journey. I was tired of vague articles and clickbait travel lists that didn’t reflect what pet owners actually need on the road.

So I began documenting my own experiences: where to go, what to pack, what to avoid, and how to handle the unexpected. Every guide I create comes from real-life adventures—tested through trial, road dust, muddy paws, and unexpected detours.

Let’s Connect

If you’ve ever wondered how to start traveling with your dog, or if you’re already on the road and want tips, tools, and inspiration, I’d love to connect.

You can follow my writing here on About.me or head over to PupTrail Journal to dive into road trip guides, packing lists, and curated gear suggestions.

Have a trail recommendation? A favorite dog-friendly town? Or just want to share your pup’s latest adventure? Send a message—I love hearing your stories.

Let’s make the road more welcoming, one paw at a time.