A few suggestions for when you pack up to come down here... bring any medication your dog usually takes, plus toys for a year. Pet shops haven't been importing much in the past year and it's sometimes tough to find good stuff. Also, be careful when you buy dog food down here. Make sure you buy it at a supermarket or a place that sells a lot because since prices are so high, many people have stopped buying dog food and cook for them instead. That means the bags stay on the shelves longer and you might end up with spoilt food. Also, try to prevent contact with local dogs. Your dog could easily end up with fleas and ticks or any one of many sicknesses. You might want to ask about your return to the US. Last I heard, dogs leaving the DR had to be in quarantine during a couple of months. Don't know if it applies to dogs from the US but after a year, they might be taking that precaution.
BTW, what breed is your dog?