RVing With Dogs and Cats

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According to a survey conducted in 2015 for the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association, 61% of people travel with pets, of which 90% are dogs and 14% are cats. With advanced planning, pets can safely enjoy RVing with their families. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or extended travel, there are steps to take to make the trip enjoyable for everyone.

Ideally, introduce your dog or cat to the RV well in advance of the planned travel. Your pet will need their own space in the RV with familiar items. Ensure your dog is comfortable on a leash and refresh his basic training. Cats need to be comfortable in a harness and leash. Traveling with dogs means making more frequent stops, so plan accordingly.

Preparation

Carefully planning your route includes checking with the campgrounds or RV parks you plan to stop at to see if they allow pets and if so, verify their pet policies. Some pet-friendly sites restrict the breed of dog or have a weight restriction. Gopetfriendly.com is a popular resource with a database of pet-friendly campgrounds and sites, though you still need to confirm current rules.

Your pet’s preventive care should be up to date and it is wise to check with your vet to see if any extra protection is needed for the area you will be visiting. Microchip your pet and make sure contact information is current. Outfit your dog with a current ID tag with your cell number on it.

Pet Go Bag

Vaccination Records – You may need to prove your pet has current rabies and other vaccinations. Boarding facilities will require proof dogs are up to date on rabies, canine distemper, Bordetella and canine influenza. Cats are required to be current on rabies, feline leukemia, and FVRCP. If you cross state lines you may need proof of these vaccinations.

Having a folder with your pet’s medical records, vaccination records, and a clear picture is recommended when traveling with your dog or cat. You will also need to include any medications your pet is on and flea/tick prevention. A pet first aid kit should also be in the go-bag. Other essentials are food, water, 6′ leash, waste pick-up bags, brush, pet wet wipes, extra leash, and food and water bowls. Don’t forget a few of their favorite toys.

Your dog will also need his bed or blanket and a crate. A cat should have a carrier.

Cats will need a litter box and litter.

In the warm months, a cooling mat is a great way to help your dog stay comfortable.

Traveling

Pets should be safely confined to a crate, carrier, or car harness to prevent injury in case of an accident. Remember to deactivate the airbag for any seat your pet occupies. It is advised that pets ride in the same vehicle as you, not in a towed vehicle.

Keep your pets hydrated when traveling. There are special bowl designs that keep water from spilling that work great.

Keeping Pets Happy on Site

Be prepared to follow the park rules. Some will not allow dogs to be left alone in the RV or on-site. Animals can become confused in strange surroundings so always clip the leash on your pet before opening the door. RVs can become extremely hot if the electricity goes off. Sensors like the MarCELL monitor the temperature in your RV and send you a text message if the heat registers too high. RVers find comfort in knowing their pets will not suffer from heat exhaustion.

Ward off anxiety and stress in your dog by keeping to your dog’s regular routine mealtimes and exercise as much as possible. Leaving the tv or radio on will help with anxiety when he must be left alone.

Older dogs may need a little help getting up and down the steps. A ramp can make it easier or sometimes, just putting carpet on the steps, will have your senior getting in and out of your RV with ease.

Be a good neighbor, only exercise your dog in the designated areas and pick up after him.

Traveling in an RV with your pets can be rewarding if you are prepared to make a few sacrifices.

The reward will be a closer bond with your pet and the freedom from worrying if your pet is okay back home.