I know exacley how you feel... I took a day like that a while ago.... I went to Mt. St. Helens... This was durring the summer before it was acting up... but it was a very zenning

As for the dog...Its hard but if you think you can take care of her then do it!

not sure about the mountan... the car is a 2003 Jetta GLI.... it super fun....6speed manual V6

Wana go for a ride?