RVing With Your Dog Responsibly
One of the great things about a road trip is that you can bring your dog. An RV offers more luxuries than a regular car, so man’s best friend can feel more comfortable during the journey. However, it’s important to be responsible and prepare for your pet’s needs. Here are 5 tips for RVing with your dog.
Try a Short Trip First
Test the waters by taking your dog on a short weekend RV getaway before taking him on a 3-month-long, cross-country trip. You don’t know how your dog will react to the RV until you try it, so start short. If your dog gets anxiety or motion sickness, you’ll want to be aware before you attempt a long journey.
Pack Your Dog’s Essentials
Your dog needs certain things when traveling, just like you. Don’t forget to pack:
- Dog food
- Food and water bowls
- Treats
- Bed
- Collar
- Leash
- Medications
- Towel
- Cleaning supplies for accidents
- Toys
- Dog waste bags
Bring items that smell like home to comfort your dog. You may want to pack accessories for outdoor activities like a harness, dog backpack, collapsible feeding bowls, or your pet’s life jacket.
Stay at Dog-Friendly RV Parks
All RV parks and campgrounds have clear rules about whether or not they allow dogs. When making reservations, confirm that the places you are staying allow dogs. Some RV parks even have fenced-in areas where dogs can play. Follow the campground’s rules and clean up after your pet.
Let Your Dog Exercise
Get your dog some exercise every day while on your RV trip. Even if you have a long drive, take breaks to let your dog walk around. Stop at rest areas or dog-friendly restaurants along the way. Keeping pets cooped up for too long will make them dislike road trips.
Be Aware of Wildlife When RVing With Your Dog
It’s common to run into wildlife when you are RVing with your dog. You may see animals as harmless as a chipmunk or as dangerous as a cougar. Stay alert and keep your dog on a leash so he does not chase after wildlife. If you spot animals that could harm your dog, stay inside the RV until the animal moves on.
Pacific RV Inspections provides RV inspections and fluid analysis. Contact us to schedule our services in Idaho or Oregon.