Our furry friends are very much a part of our families. The thought of leaving them behind while we travel oftentimes leaves us very sad. So, we make room in our campers for them and bring along all the paraphernalia that they need from dog food to shampoo to brushes, goggles, vaccination papers, and more. So, whether you’re planning that weekend getaway, a family vacation, or preparing for full-time RV living on the road or to permanently live in one campground as a retirement solution, here are some tips for RVing with pets to make your planning easier.
Investigate Pet Policies at the Campground You Want to Stay At
Some campgrounds are pet friendly while others are not. It’s not a good idea to just show up without finding out if they allow pets or not and without the proper paperwork. If they are pet friendly, they will have rules such as no more than 2 pets, cleaning up after your pets, keeping your pets on a leash, and never leaving your pet outside unattended. Pet etiquette is extremely important because if you don’t obey the campground’s rules, you may find yourself on a blocked list because of not cleaning up, excessive barking, or leaving holes in the ground.
Keep Your Pets Safe
Living life on the road with your furry companions is an exciting adventure, but it’s crucial to prioritize pet safety every step of the way. Before embarking on your next journey, make a pit stop at the vet for a health check-up, rabies vaccination proof, and flea/tick/heartworm prevention. Ask about stress relief options for your pets and ensure they have a carrier or vehicle harness for safe travels. Remember to never leave your pets unattended in a pull-behind camper while driving. Stay prepared with a recent photo, microchips, and ID tags for your pets. Have your vet’s and a local vet’s contact information handy for any emergencies. Keep your pets safe and happy on the road!
Keeping Your Pets Comfortable
Enhance your pet’s comfort during your RV adventure by bringing along their beloved toys, cozy beds, and tasty treats. It’s crucial to ensure they feel at home in the new environment to avoid any tummy troubles. Remember to pack enough of their favorite food to prevent any sudden dietary changes. When traveling with pets in an RV, keep in mind that temperatures inside can fluctuate drastically. Prioritize their well-being by ensuring proper ventilation or heating to create a cozy atmosphere, especially if they’ll be left alone at any point. Your furry companions’ comfort and safety are our top priorities! Consider investing in a temperature monitoring system or indoor security camera to keep an eye on them while you’re away and receive alerts if conditions become less than ideal. Let’s make sure your pets feel pampered and content throughout the journey!
If you’re traveling in the southern states during the summer, it’s important to:
- Recognize heat stroke. Yes, pets are susceptible to heat stroke, according to the American Red Cross. The ones that suffer the most are the dogs with short noses such as pugs, bulldogs, Shih Tzus, and others. It’s important to know what to do if you suspect your pet is having a heat stroke episode.
- Be cautious of hot surfaces. While humans wear shoes, our furry friends do not, so, think about what would help protect your pet’s feet on those extremely burning hot surfaces.
- Provide extra water. You’ll find that you’ll need to fill their water bowl frequently to help keep them hydrated.
- Avoid cutting fur too short. Although you may be tempted to cut your pet’s coat down to the skin, resist that urge. They need at least one inch of fur to protect their skin from sunburn.
- Outdoor hazards. Warm weather means insects and wildlife. Use a good flea and tick medication to protect your pet from heartworm and tick-related diseases. There will also be snakes, skunks, raccoons, foxes and other wild animals roaming around. A scuffle with one of these could result in an injury to your pet.
Pets need extra care during warm weather to avoid sickness or damage from the sun, heat and more.
Pet Essentials for Traveling in a RV
When embarking on an RV adventure with your furry friends, make sure to pack all the essentials to keep your pet happy, healthy, and secure!
Pet food and medications
- Food & water
- Food & water dishes
- Pet beds & blankets
- Treats & toys
- Medications & supplements
- Flea, tick, & heartworm prevention
Pet travel and safety gear
- Collar & ID tags
- Leash & harness
- Crate, gate, or pen
- Tie out or line
- Carrier or vehicle harness
Pet cleaning supplies
- Waste bags, litter & litter box
- Grooming tools
- Pet wipes & old towels
- Lint roller & carpet cleaner
Records and Identification
- Veterinarian contact information
- Medical records & vaccinations
- Health certificate
- Recent photos & identification
Embarking on adventures with our furry companions brings us endless joy as we see the world through their curious eyes. Planning for your next journey with your pets not only reduces stress but also allows us to focus on making precious memories together. Let’s make the most of traveling with our beloved pets and create unforgettable experiences together!
