Thinking of bringing your furry friend along for your next RV adventure? Traveling with dogs can be rewarding but requires a little extra preparation. Here are ten practical tips to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and stress-free trip with your canine companions.
1. Research and Plan Ahead
Proper preparation is key when RVing with dogs. Before heading out, consider:
- Are pets permitted at your chosen campground or RV park?
- Will your RV comfortably accommodate your dog?
- Are the hiking trails dog-friendly?
- Is it safe to leave your dog alone if necessary? Taking time to research these points helps avoid last-minute surprises.
2. Have a Vet and Grooming Plan
Routine vet visits and grooming can be challenging while traveling full-time. Plan accordingly by:
- Getting extra medication or supplies from your regular vet.
- Scheduling grooming appointments ahead of time, as they can book quickly.
- Identifying emergency veterinary clinics at each destination to handle unexpected situations promptly.
3. Give Dogs Their Own Space
Your RV might be small, but your dog still needs their personal area. This could be a designated bed, blanket, or even a cozy crate. Provide plenty of toys to prevent boredom and unwanted chewing.
During travel, motorhomes offer easy accommodations, but if towing a trailer or fifth wheel, ensure your dog has sufficient space in the tow vehicle. Consider seat belts or harnesses for safety during transit.
4. Prepare for Dog-Free Activities
Not all adventures are dog-friendly, particularly in national parks or busy attractions. In these situations:
- Consider doggie daycare or pet-sitting services through trusted platforms like Rover or Care.com.
- For shorter outings, leaving dogs safely in the RV can be an option. Provide adequate food, water, entertainment, and consider using a pet camera and temperature monitoring system.
For pet-friendly hotels, restaurants, and hiking trails, apps like BringFido and AllTrails are invaluable.
5. Ensure Adequate Exercise
Dogs need regular physical activity to stay healthy and happy. RV interiors generally don’t offer enough space for exercise, so plan frequent outdoor activities:
- Hiking is an excellent way for dogs to stay physically and mentally stimulated.
- Dog parks are great alternatives for socialization and playtime.
6. Watch Out for Extreme Weather
Protect your dogs from weather extremes:
- Hot Weather: Avoid overheating and burned paws by providing ample water breaks and using paw-protective shoes.
- Cold Weather: Ensure dogs remain warm and have a comfortable indoor space to retreat. Avoid prolonged exposure to cold to protect their paws and overall health.
7. Microchip Your Dogs
Traveling increases the risk of pets becoming lost. Microchipping ensures a swift reunion should your dog stray away at campgrounds or trails. Always keep microchip information updated.
8. Protect Against Ticks and Fleas
Outdoor adventures expose your pets to ticks, fleas, and associated diseases. Regularly use preventative treatments such as monthly tick drops or collars, especially in regions known for tick activity.
9. Practice Proper Pet Etiquette at RV Parks
Respect other campers by adhering to these etiquette guidelines:
- Always clean up after your dog.
- Prevent excessive barking, especially at night.
- Keep your dog leashed in designated areas to avoid confrontations with other pets.
10. Be Alert to Wildlife Dangers
Wild animals pose risks to pets, particularly in remote areas:
- Avoid leaving dogs unattended outdoors, especially after dark.
- Stay vigilant during hikes, and prepare strategies in advance for possible wildlife encounters, ranging from bears and mountain lions to snakes and smaller creatures.
By following these simple guidelines, you’ll ensure a pleasant and safe RV journey for both you and your beloved canine travel companions.