RVing with your pet

Did You Know...

it's estimated that 75 percent of RVers travel with their pets?

Hitting the road with your pet in your RV is much like taking him along in your car. Sure, there is much more room and you have all the conveniences of your home on wheels, but it doesn't mean your pet should have free reign of all that space.

Safety should be your primary concern for your entire family, including your pet. An unrestrained 25-pound dog can become a 1,000-pound mass (half a ton) flying uncontrollably around the vehicle if you were to have an accident going only 40 miles per hour (25 lbs. x 40 mph). This kind of projectile could seriously injure or even be fatal to you, your passengers and your pet.

Just as you would restrain yourself and the rest of your family with seatbelts, don't forget about that special member of the family who doesn't know any better and has a hard time fastening his own restraining device. Look out for his safety, too. Many pet seatbelts, pet harnesses, pet car seats, and pet travel carriers on the market can provide security for your pet and peace of mind for you.

Here are some pet travel tips to make your RVing experience with your pet even more enjoyable:

  • Check ahead at the RV park or campground to make sure they permit pets on the premises. Don't assume that "pet-friendly" means all pets are accepted. They may have certain size restrictions or a limit on the number of pets you may bring. Others may offer kennels or other boarding facilities for travelers who may want to set out on excursions or attractions that don't allow pets.
  • Don't leave your pet locked inside your RV without the air running or proper ventilation. If a generator malfunctions, temperatures can heat up fast in the summer and can cause heat stroke or be fatal to your pet. Make sure your pet has plenty of water and air circulation if you must leave him for short periods of time.
  • In addition to an I.D. tag on your pet's collar or harness that contains your permanent address and phone number, be sure to include a travel tag with your cell phone number and a number where you may be staying while you're traveling.
  • Always travel with information about local veterinary care in case your pet is injured or requires medical care. Your pet's medical records, medications and health certificate should also be packed.
  • A pet first-aid kit is a must for injuries or illnesses that you are able to take care of. It's important that you know how to use the items in the kit before you need them. Here's a list of the more common items to have in your pet's first-aid kit.
    • Powder Styptic (toenail bleeding)
    • Latex Gloves (personal protection from blood)
    • Sterile Gauze Bandage (wrap wounds)
    • Eye & Skin Wash (flush wounds)
    • Triple Antibiotic Ointment (wound)
    • Hydrocortisone Cream (rashes, itching)
    • Iodine Antiseptic wipes (sterilization)
    • Insect sting wipes (apply to insect bites/stings)
    • Adhesive Tape (secure bandage)
    • Gauze Pad (apply to wounds)
    • Scissors (trim hair and cut bandage or tape)
    • Hand Wipes (personal cleanup)
    • Antiseptic Towelettes (clean wound or hands)
    • Cotton Swabs (apply ointments or creams)
    • Pet Care Card (detailed first aid instructions)
    • Pet Emergency Card (record your vet's emergency #'s)
    • Plastic Forceps (splinters/tick removal)
  • A pet leash is essential to have control of your pet when you go outside. Pets in unfamiliar territory may either become scared and run away or curious and go exploring.
  • Take a photo of your pet with you in the event you do become separated. It will help others to identify him in their search.
  • Do not tie your pet to your RV with a metal chain in case of a power surge or improperly grounded facilities.
  • Be considerate and practice good "petiquette" by cleaning up after your pet. Always keep a supply of pick-up bags with you. Good campers make good neighbours.
  • Take with you all of your pet's necessities, including plenty of food, treats and water. Don't expect everywhere you go to have adequate drinking water.
  • Check with your vet before you leave about flea and tick treatments or repellent, heartworm medication and other preventives that will make your RVing experience with your pet more enjoyable.
  • Do your research on possible illness that could occur due to the area's of travel, ie: Valley Fever in places like Arizona