Planning a road trip with your dogs or cats? Check out this guide for essential dos and don’ts of traveling in an RV with pets. Enjoy a stress-free trip!
Our pets are part of our family. Traveling in an RV with pets can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it also requires some extra planning and consideration. In this guide, we’ll cover the essential dos and don’ts of RV travel with pets, so you can have a stress-free and enjoyable experience with your beloved companions.
Table of Contents
Prepare Your Pet for the Trip
Before hitting the road, it’s important to prepare your pet for the journey ahead. Here’s a few suggestions to get you started.
- Start by making sure your pet is up to date on vaccinations and has a collar with identification tags.
- It’s also a good idea to have your pet microchipped in case they get lost during the trip.
- Finally, take your pet on short practice trips in the RV to help them get used to the environment and reduce any anxiety they may have.
Secure Your Pet when you RV with Pets.
When traveling in an RV with pets, it’s crucial to secure them properly to ensure their safety and prevent any accidents or injuries. A few suggestions for securing them in the RV.
- One option is to use a pet crate or carrier that is securely fastened to the RV. This will keep your pet contained and prevent them from roaming around while the vehicle is in motion.
- Another option is to use a pet seat belt or harness that attaches to the RV’s seat belt system. This will keep your pet restrained and prevent them from being thrown around in the event of sudden stops or turns.
Whichever method you choose, make sure it’s comfortable for your pet and allows them to move and stretch comfortably.
Pack Essential Supplies for Your Pet.
When traveling in an RV with pets, it’s important to pack essential supplies to ensure their comfort and well-being. Some essential supplies to consider are:
- A crate to keep your pet safe while traveling – if this is new to your pet do a few practice sessions so it’s familiar to them.
- Bring along your pet’s medical records and their vet’s contact information
- Food and water bowls and food they usually eat and are familiar with
- A collar and a leash
- Waste bags
- A pet first aid kit and any necessary medications
- Favourite toys and their bed.
- Extra food and water in case of unexpected delays or emergencies.
- Photos of your pet in case they get lost (accidents do happen)
- Portable exercise pen
By having these essential supplies with you, you know your pet will be more comfortable, less stressed and both you and your pets have a better chance of a problem free adventure.
Plan Pet-Friendly Stops and Activities when you RV with pets.
When traveling in an RV with pets, stop often so you can all get out and stretch, and have a little exercise to break up the monotony of traveling too long.
Do your research before you leave home. Book pet-friendly campgrounds, and look for parks, and attractions that welcome your pets. When researching your next destination look for places that have designated pet areas, or even pet-friendly amenities such as dog parks or pet care. By including pet-friendly stops and activities into your travel plans, you can ensure that your pets have a fun and enjoyable journey the same as you will.
Is the Destination Campground Pet Friendly?
There’s a few simple things to do when planning to RV with Pets.
- When making reservations make sure you’re familiar with the campground’s pet policy
- It’s a good idea to even phone them directly to confirm that your pet will be welcome
- If required, check to see if pet-sitting is available
Follow RV Park Rules and Etiquette for Pets.
If you’re looking for a positive experience for everyone, it’s really important to follow the rules of the campground which probably include having your pets on a leash. Always keep your pets on a leash and clean up after them. Many RV parks have designated pet areas or dog parks where your pets can play off-leash, but make sure to supervise them at all times. It’s really quite simple – supervise your pets at all times, keep them quiet and well behaved, and remember, not everyone is comfortable around animals. Be considerate of others.
Traveling in your RV with Pets in Canada
Of course you should bring along your pets when RVing in Canada. They’re part of the family and as you can see from the suggestions above, by doing a little planning ahead of time everyone can have a trip filled with good memories.
If you’re a visitor to Canada there’s a few more tips here that will help you RV with pets when coming from a different country.
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