KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) On a recent episode of Dan Mitchell’s Open Mic radio show on WKBK’s Good Morning with Dan Mitchell, dog trainer Denise Mazzola joined the host for a wide-ranging and lively conversation about life on the road and life with dogs.

The special edition of Mazzola’s WKBK show, “Ask the Trainer,” offered a mix of travel stories, practical pet training advice, and personal anecdotes, all shaped by Mazzola’s professional background and unique lifestyle. It was also the first time she was in-studio with Mitchell since she sold her home and left Keene for her on-the-road adventures.

Mazzola and her partner, Amy, have spent the past several months traveling along the East Coast in their RV, accompanied by their two dogs, Gio and Minty. Their next big adventure will take them to Nova Scotia and Newfoundland this August, including a ferry trip across the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Both have become adept at operating and maintaining the RV, embracing the nomadic lifestyle with enthusiasm.

“I don’t miss it,” Mazzola said of homeownership. “There’s nothing about it that I miss. Not the snow, not the ice, not the wood stove. I’ve read more books in six months than I have in years.”

With the help of Starlink internet, the pair stay connected while traveling, which allows Mazzola, whose business is Everything Dog NH, to continue offering dog training advice to her clients remotely.

Throughout the conversation, Mazzola offered valuable insight into responsible dog ownership, particularly when it comes to taking dogs into public spaces. She cautioned listeners not to assume that all dogs enjoy bustling cafes, eateries, or crowds.

“Our job as pet owners is to understand our dog’s strengths and weaknesses and honor those,” she explained, noting that while her calm yellow lab Gio can handle public settings, her other dog, Minty, is more sensitive and prefers quieter environments.

“There’s a big myth out there that more socialization is going to fix dog problems,” she said. “It’s not about forcing a dog into every situation—it’s about knowing your dog.”

Mazzola also touched on seasonal challenges such as ticks, which have been especially prevalent in New Hampshire. She and Amy have had to stay vigilant, checking both themselves and their dogs regularly during hikes and walks. She also provided advice on preparing dogs for travel to Canada, navigating border requirements, and ensuring pets are ready for ferry rides and loud events like fireworks.

The interview was full of both practical suggestions and humorous asides. At one point, Mazzola laughed about choosing not to bring the dogs to a coffee shop, even though they could: “I don’t want to be paying attention to the dog. I want to just be talking to Amy or visiting with people that walk by.”

As RV travel becomes increasingly popular, especially among pet owners, Mazzola’s perspective offered a timely look at the realities and rewards of life on the road with dogs. Her advice—grounded in experience and compassion—was a welcome reminder that understanding and respecting each dog’s unique temperament is key to a successful adventure.

Listen to the full interview: