Tips For Traveling With Big Dogs
According to Ron Epstein, editorial director of Highways magazine,
a publication of the Good Sam RV Club, about 41% of all dog owners
who set out on the road in their RVs take the family pet with
them.
Your dog can become a happy (and safe) camper too, with a little
groundwork. Following the guidelines below will help to make their
RV jaunt a safe and enjoyable experience:
• If you have not yet bought an RV, pick a design that will
work for you and your dog’s needs
• Keep in mind that, during a sudden stop or
(heaven forbid) and accident, loose pets can be hurt or even
killed. They can also hurt others should they be
thrown through the air. To help keep your pet and family safe,
it is prudent to have your dog restrained in some manner during
travel. Some folks prefer the classic
, while others prefer a
. We provide a photo of both a kennel
and safety harness to the left.
• Get your dog comfortable with quick car rides first if
he isn’t used to traveling
• Take your dog to the veterinarian for a pre-trip checkup
• Bring some of their favorite treats so they feel more at
home
• Bring items that are familiar to your pooch. His favorite
or blanket, favorite toy, his favorite
he is used to eating
out of...
• Stop about every three hours while en route so
your dog can relieve himself, stretch his legs and get a drink
• Depending on where you are going and what activities the
dog will have, be sure and pack flea and tick repellent.
• If you are traveling to campgrounds where your dog cannot
roam free, or, you simply don't want them to run off (and catch
the eye of a Cougar), an
might be for you. These items allow
your dog (or cat) to be outdoors, get exercise, and not run
off or explore in places they shoudn't.
• Make sure you have your pet's medical records and your vet's
phone number. It is also a good idea to get the phone number of
a local vet once you arrive at your destination.
• Bring a leash, and an extra leash (
)
Tips For Traveling With Cats
For your cat’s safety, crate him while traveling. You
may in fact have to train your cat to travel in his carrier
long before you embark on your RVing journey, especially if
he is usually a stay-at-home pet whose only travel experience
is the occasional trip to the vet. To get him used to the carrier
crate, place it in an area of the house that he frequents. In
the event of an accident your cat could be injured or could
cause injury to others. Also, after an accident, you will want
to be able to simply grab your cat's carrier and get them out
of the vehicle, rather than trying to locate them
in a hiding spot somewhere. We have found that eBay has the
best competitive pricing on
Other handy items to bring along for your cat include:
• Their favorite cat toys and
• It can be close quarters traveling with a furry companion
in an RV or trailer, a good
, litter and deodorizer will make your
trip more pleasant
• A
- super handy if your feline likes to go on walks, or, if
you want them to potty outside, but don't want them running off
• If your pet doesn't prefer the figure eight harness model,
bring a "regular"
Tips For Traveling With Birds
Many bird owners are packing their feathered pals into the camper
and taking them along on RV trips.
As long as you’re careful to prevent escape, guard against
temperature extremes, and protect your bird from other animals,
he can safely go anywhere you do.
Items that can help keep your birdie safe and happy on their adventure
include:
• A
or "come along" carrier
• For times when the RV is not in motion, a
can come in
handy and keep birdie happy
What To Do With Your Pets If The RV Breaks Down
Remember that pets can experience heatstroke when left in a small space
or in a hot vehicle. If your RV breaks down make sure your pet has enough
ventilation. If you need to stay at a motel while the RV is being repaired,
enquire first whether it is pet-friendly. If you have to cut your vacation
short and fly home, find out from the airline what are the requirements
for traveling with your pet.
• Request a spot as far removed from the common sites as
possible when you make your reservation, explaining that you travel
with pets and that, while they are obedient, you understand that
not everyone is a pet lover
• Try to get a place with shade for your pets if it’s
hot
• Keep your pets quiet and on your allocated spot
• Do not tie your dog outside unless you will always be present
• Pick up any droppings on your site right away,
put them in a plastic bag so they will not draw insects or smell,
and get rid of them properly
