Pet-Friendly Travel; Tips and Advice

Knowing how to make your next RV trip pet friendly is a must before you hit the road with your furry family member! What would those summer trips be if we had to leave our beloved pets at home? We have included some pet-friendly travel tips and ideas in this article.

You do not want to see this as you drive away on your RV vacation while leaving  “Logan” at home with the pet sitter.

RV ownership is about traveling with the family, and your pets are certainly part of the family. We’ve put together some of the best tips we’ve found on traveling with your fur kids.

Planning Ahead for that Pet-Friendly Trip

You will want to carefully plan your route, and you should start early. Doing this right will take time and effort.

Checking with all of the campgrounds where you plan to stop, to see if they allow dogs, and if so, what their rules are. Please check out the RV Parky app in this link, Travel Apps, for information on pet-friendly sites and other very useful information.

Some pet-friendly campgrounds will not allow dogs to be left alone in the RV or on-site. If you plan to visit any attractions where dogs are not welcome, you will need to make other arrangements, such as finding a local kennel.

Protecting Your Pet While Alone in Your RV

If you must leave them in your RV, there is technology available to ensure your dog’s environment is comfortable. For example, the Proteus AMBIO – WiFi Temperature Humidity Sensor. This device will monitor ambient conditions in your RV, home, or office where WiFi is available and alerts you via multiple emails or multiple text messages. A loud audible buzzer provides immediate notification of alerts.

The temperature and humidity readings are highly accurate and are within (±0.4°C, ±3.0%RH). Additionally, it is a cloud-connected WiFi temperature and humidity sensor with NO monthly charges, as with many similar monitors. Keep ambient conditions in the know, especially with little ones and pets in your rig.

Packing for Your Dog

Of course, you will need to pack basics like food and water bowls, your dog’s bed, and toys. It is important that while he is on the road, he is surrounded by familiar objects and toys. One site to visit for an extensive array of pet items is EntirelyPets. There you will find beds, collars, medication/supplements (OTC and Prescription), dog food, dog treats, and much, much more. Make it your one-stop-shop for all things pets, including horses, birds, small pets, fish, and even small reptiles.

Most importantly,  you will also want to be sure you pack your dog’s health records and proof of vaccinations. Many pet-friendly campgrounds will ask to see a valid rabies certificate. Remember to pack any medications and supplements your dog may take, including flea and tick protection.

It’s also important to have several forms of identification for your dog—an ID tag and a photo at the very least—in case you get separated. You may also consider having her micro-chipped if she doesn’t already have one.

On the Road

Of course, you should never allow your dog to ride unrestrained in your RV. There are many types of harnesses, dog crates, and carriers that will keep him safe and secure in case of sudden stops. All these restraints have been designed for pet-friendly travel. Also, be sure to deactivate any airbags where he will be sitting.

Dog crates and car seats should be fastened with seat belts or tie-downs. And never let your dog ride in a trailer towed behind your RV. He needs to be in the same space as you. You can find many such items in the EntirelyPets hotlink in the previous article, Packing for Your Dog.

While traveling, it’s also a good idea to try to keep to your dog’s regular routine as much as possible. Regular mealtimes and exercise can help with the stress your dog might feel in a new situation. He will look forward to his walks just as much as he did at home—and possibly more with new environments to explore.

On-Site

Consider bringing both a 6-foot leash for walking and a longer lead to allow your dog more freedom of movement when it’s appropriate. You can also consider a zip line which you can easily make yourself or you can get a zip line from an online store.

We have one final tip before you hit the road, and that is to be a good neighbor and to ensure that your dog is, too. Be sure to carry waste bags with you and to clean up after your dog. You will also want to do what you can to keep his barking to a minimum. (Some campgrounds have rules about this and will ask you to leave if neighbors complain.)

You’ll also want to be careful to observe any restricted areas where dogs are not allowed. And if your dog is a breed with a prey drive, you will need to take extra precautions to keep her from breaking loose to chase a squirrel or rabbit.

Pet Friendly Wrap Up

Have Fun! With a little advanced planning, RVing with your pet can be an enjoyable experience for all of you. You will likely enjoy your vacation more if you don’t have to worry about how much he’s missing you in the kennel, or even at grandmas. And your dog will love you for it!

If you do not have an RV, but would like to rent one, go to RV Share. This link Pet-Friendly RV Rentals will guide you to an RV that allows pets.

For some other information to help you plan your trip with your pet, go to ASPCA for some useful tips.