Tips For Traveling With Pets in an RV
RVing with Pets
You can travel with pets, and I don't mean to call you out, but it is possible to do so if you take the time to research how to go about doing it. And, of course, you must be patient with your pet. If you make the decision that you can't travel because you have to care for your pet, you will 100% regret it. If you allow your pet time to adjust to new surroundings, they will as all animals can & will adapt. Imagine your furry friend hiking, kayaking and sightseeing with you, sounds like fun right? If you're able to adapt to a traveling RV lifestyle, this can be possible for you too!
What You Need To Know
Heat exhaustion is one of the biggest dangers to pets living in RVs. The sun can heat up your RV's interior to over 100 degrees in just 70 degrees (F). A MarCELL temperature monitoring system will keep your pets safe from extreme heats and power outages.
Your RV can be your home, whether you are full-time, part-time, or simply just want to take a road trip. While it may seem natural to let your pets roam around while you drive to your destination, this is one the most dangerous decisions you can make. While you may feel confident about your driving skills, you could seriously injure your pet if you get into an accident with them roaming around even if it wasn't your fault. Wandering pets can also come up to you while you are driving, making it easier to become distracted.
Make sure your pet is chipped or has an ID tag if you plan to take them on a trip. Find a kiosk at your local WalMart or PetSmart, enter your pet's name and your phone number and add it to their collar. Now your pet has a personal ID! You should also bring all their paperwork in case your pet has any allergies or other medical conditions. And don't forget your first aid kit!
Pets don't like being stuck in a car for long periods of time. While frequent stops for toilet breaks are nice, your pet will be bored if you don't plan to spend an hour at a rest stop to play or at least let them roam the RV. Make it a habit to walk your pet every day, even if you are traveling. Let them explore the area. If you have enough space and the owners are okay with letting your pet run around or if you can find a nearby dog park, play some fetch & get some of their energy out!
Dogs and cats both need interaction! Dogs need to be walked outside and have regular potty breaks. If left alone, they may develop separation anxiety. You can take a day trip to the mountains or cities, but make sure you give your fluffy friend lots of love and attention once you return!
Top Tips For Traveling With Pets
Before you leave for your trip, make sure to visit the vet. Check that your pet has all their current vaccinations and is on the right medication if needed. As you travel, stay up to date and be familiar with campground or park's pet policy. For more information, call ahead or visit their website.
You may find that your pet is uncomfortable sleeping outside of your house. If this is the case, you should try to replicate a similar sleeping situation for them to feel more at home. You can allow them to sleep in your RV bed if thats what they are used to. If they sleep in their own bed, bring that with too! You and your family will be able to rest easy knowing that your pet is comfortable and sleeping well.
Although this is a simple but important step, it is vital. In case of an emergency, make sure to have extra food on hand as well as water. Make sure their water bowl is clean and easily accessible. Don't forget to pack their favorite toys and treats to keep them entertained on long stretches of driving. Having a leash and/or some kind of harness is also important for places that don't allow pets to roam free. Lastly, keeping up with your pets exercise is key. Your pet won't know that you are on vacation, so it will expect the same level of stimulation that it's used to at home. Each pet is unique and may adapt more quickly to new situations than others.
Giving Back
Here at Sun City RV we believe in giving back! Every year, our owner, Chuck Niday, supports veteran, first responder and animal causes. This month, he donated $5,000 in RV repairs to the All About Animals Rescue and their founder, Dawn Cavanaugh, to allow them to rescue animals throughout the Phoenix area and find them safe & healthy homes. Learn more about their mission at: AllAboutAnimalsAZ.com
Sun City RV is the largest and most trusted RV Consignment Dealer in the Phoenix, AZ area. Since 1997 they have sold over 10,000 high quality used RV's and are known for their friendly customer service, RV service and repair, RV storage and the ATC Aluminum Toy Hauler dealer in the Phoenix area. Contact them at 623-979-8585 or through this website for more information.