First time going overseas

nd5061nd

We are new to this, and have bought a motorhome (a swift escape 622). We are my wife and i along with our small dog and we are planning a trip through france ending up in the algarve(with any luck!!),we are not sure if we should go on the longer ferry trip
and would like to know if anyone has any experience of taking a dog on these longer ferry trips (portsmouth/Plymouth etc) with a dog, as we have heard that its not good for the dog/animal?

Conversely,we are happy to go through the tunnel/ferry and make our way down very leisurely and hopefully wouldlike suggestions on a sensible route avoiding the french toll roads.

Is this viable/practical? Any help/suggestions would be greatfully received

 

Thanks in anticipation

Nigel