About

Hi! I’m Rosalyn and this is Gizmo

Join us on our travels!

Although I was born here and spent most summer holidays here, I didn’t move home until a little over 10 years ago. There’s still so much to see, explore and learn about this province. My goal is to do just that, while accompanied by my favourite hiking buddy, my little 20-lb. terrier mix named Gizmo! We tend to have a lot of unexpected and funny adventures during our road trips, so if you’re planning to travel Newfoundland with a dog, hopefully this site can help you plan and prepare for a successful trip!

If you have any questions or even suggestions for a particular place we should explore, please send them along! You can reach us via email at hello@penandpaw.com or on social media!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do you only travel in Newfoundland?

I visit Nova Scotia a lot, and I’ve toured all 10 provinces, but I’ve not yet seen a lot of Newfoundland and that includes Labrador. I tend to wander through Atlantic Canada mostly, but right now I’m focused on discovering more about my home province. We tend to go where we feel like, depending on the weather and the time frame, even during the harsher winter months. During the cooler months we tend to restrict our travels to the Southwest Coast where we reside, and I believe it’s an underrated gem for tourists to enjoy.

3. Have you ever been in danger from wildlife?

The most danger I’ve ever been in when it comes to Newfoundland wildlife is moose stumbling onto the highway. This happens mostly in the spring when mothers drive out their yearlings and in the fall during hunting season, but it can happen year round. I’ve seen them in the winter months coming out to lick salt off the highways, so it’s important to remain vigilant during road trips. I’ve not encountered any predators while hiking a trail, but then again I do take precautions.

2. How big is the island of Newfoundland?

People rather underestimate the size of Canada and that includes Newfoundland and Labrador. I’ve had relatives living in other provinces plan to visit for a quick weekend trip through Gros Morne and then down to St. John’s, so this is pretty commonplace. To drive from Channel-Port aux Basques to St. John’s is a 10 hour drive one way, or 8 if you push it and don’t stop long for gas or food, etc., so the island is quite large. If you want a small day-trip, try Prince Edward Island. It’s a beautiful province too!

4. I only have a short time to visit. Where should I go?

That really depends on what you enjoy. If you’re more into urban sites, then I would suggest you need to visit St. John’s because it’s the oldest capital city in North America and dates back to the mid-1500s. For a hunting or fishing experience, try an outfitter instead, although they are usually booked months in advance. To explore a fjord, you might want to visit Gros Morne. The province’s official tourism website has good information to various events that might interest you as well.