What’s better than going camping? Going camping and bringing your best furry friend along for the ride! Here’s a few things to consider when RVing with your pet.
Safety First: Make sure your pet is secure while you’re on the move; allowing them to roam the RV while you’re driving is not only hazardous to them (they could be seriously hurt if there’s an accident) but to you as well (they could distract you and cause the aforementioned accident). Make sure they have a comfy secure crate to hang out in while you make your way to your destination. You want everyone to make it there in one piece.
No Dogs Allowed? If you want to bring your pet with you, the best way to avoid any issues is to do research before you leave. Always make sure the places you want to go allow pets and follow the rules laid out for those pets. Dogs required to be on-leash? Make sure you bring one. Even if your fur-baby is so good off-leash that she’d never do anything wrong, you don’t want to get kicked out of the site for not following basic campground etiquette. Check the rules before you book a site.
Allow for Pit Stops: Your pet will require breaks just as often as you do, if not more so. So factor that in while planning your route and the time it takes to get there. You need to stretch after a long period in the same position, and your pet does too. Besides, taking your time is not only safer, but also allows you to take in some roadside attractions you might normally have skipped.
Bare Necessities: Much like you, your dog needs to eat. Don’t forget to bring your pet’s food along with you when you’re packing up your own food. Try and use the same food they have at home, it’ll reduce the chance of an upset stomach and a big mess to clean up when you pull over. And don’t forget to hydrate!
Give Them Time: The RV can be an unfamiliar place full of different smells than your pet is used to, and that can be stressful for them. Try to give your pet time to explore their temporary home and adjust accordingly before hitting the road. Designate a spot for them to relax if they need, and bring along their favourite toy to help soothe them.
Toys and Treats: And bring a bunch of other toys because they will definitely need them! And treats. Lots and lots of treats.
Happy camping and stay safe while camping with your pets this summer!
