Let’s hit the road! Traveling with Pets in a Motorhome

Recreational Vehicle (RV) or Motorized Home, yes my wife and I have been looking to buy a RV. We are at that stage in life where we want to hit the open road and see new things.

I have a dog (Pomeranian) that gets depressed when I am not around, so yes, we will be taking her RVing as well. After all, she is part of the family.

So how do we do this in making my Pom RV friendly and how do we get her to adjust to the “moving” home environment?

Let’s discuss how to prepare for the trip, where to stay overnight that accepts pets, and how to prepare for the unthinkable while the pet is in the RV.

I hope you will find these tips helpful as I share my research that I have been doing of traveling with pets in a motor home (RV).

How to Prepare for your Pet’s big adventure

Pets, dogs and cats, do not adapt to new environments as quickly as the human does. This is especially true for a home that is always moving down the road and has a lot of new sounds it is producing.

By knowing and understanding this along with you knowing the personality of your pet will help you and them in the transitional period.

Just as you are going through a period of getting to know your new home, so is your pet. You need to let your pet explore and sniff out the nuances of his/her new home before taking off on the open road.

Cats identify everything by the smell and the new “car” smell of your new RV may be a little overwhelming for them. Dogs and Cats can be hyper sensitive to the chemicals from the new furniture or carpet. If this is an issue, please consult your vet.

It is important to bring your pets things on the RV to let them know that this is a friendly environment. If you pet is crate trained, put the crate on board the RV and bring their favorite toys or blankets into their new home

After they have explored and they look relaxed, it will be time to introduce them into the world of motorized house living. They will need to understand the concept of motion while relaxing and playing.

Turn the motor and generator on. Let them hear and get to know the sounds. This will be new to them, so have some patience. If your pet pants and cries, do not re-enforce that behavior, but gently reassure them that this is their home too and they are safe.

Once you have done all of this, take your pet for a ride around the block. Hopefully all will go well.

When was the last time you saw a doctor?

Not you, your pet!

Before going out on the open road and away from your pet’s vet, make sure you have a visit with them. It is important to have your pet’s shots up to date and it is a good idea to carry your pet’s health record along the trip.

The vet may recommend precautions for you to take based on the breed of your animal. If you think your pet will be come anxious while traveling, he can recommend proper treatment for your furry friend.

A happy pet is always more enjoyable when in motion.

If you prefer, there maybe somethings you can do holistically that will help in calming your pet while in motion. You can give your pet anti-anxiety chews that are available and the pet will enjoy.

Have you ever heard of the Thundershirt for dogs. The is a vest that your dog can wear that applies pressure points on their body for the calming effects.

There are natural remedies you can give your pet that are available that are made from natural ingredients and safe for the pet in your new RV.

Lastly, just as you do for yourself, make sure you have ample supply of your pet’s medication such as heart prevention or flea treatment. You want fleas on the RV, not me!

Pet Friendly RV Parks

Do not travel all day and finally stop for rest overnight just to find out the RV park does not allow pets. This can ruin a perfectly good day.

When you make your reservations, always asked about their pet policies. The last thing you want to be is an annoying neighbor at the park.

Almost 60% of all RV families are traveling with their pets, so most RV parks will be pet friendly, but make sure before committing to the overnight stay.

Be prepared to pick up after you pet or take them to the designated areas when they have to relieve themselves. Make sure to give them plenty of exercise as walking after you have arrived.

Lastly, do not let your dog or cat run fee. Keep them leashed and this will make for the makings of a good neighbor and will keep your pet under control. Always have treats available to distract your dog or cat if need be to keep them from unwanted barking.

Always be prepared, that was the scouts code when I was young.

Are you prepared for an emergency for your pet? Do you have a pet emergency kit?

Once you are on the road you need to be prepared for anything that might upset your pet. Remember you are bringing your pet out of their element and this can have upsetting consequences for their digestive tracts.

Be aware of what your pet might need in case of a bee sting or an upset stomach.

A good practice is to always keep your pet on a leash when stopping. In case something happens, hopefully not, and you have to open the door and rush outside, the dog or cats will pick up on your emotions and try to escape as well.

No one wants to lose a furry family member during this time of high anxiety. If this happens, make sure your pet has an updated collar tag with all your cell phone numbers so that you can be reached if you do lose your pet.

Happy Tails to You and Yours!

When traveling, try to be as consistent with your pet as you can. This will help in curbing their behavior of reacting and teach them a traveling routine.

So if it is traveling, eating, or exercising, be a consistent as possible.

Establishment of a travel routine is as important for you as it is your pet. Remember to take frequent stops for rest and exercise of your pet. Allow them ample time to do their business and shower them with praise once they have gone.

This will instill in them to relieve themselves every time you take them out.

I hope this article has given you some insight and thought provocative to help you better prepare and have a safe traveling time with your pet. Your pets want to go everywhere with you and they should.

So Happy Tails to you and your furry family.

If you have a comment or question, please feel free to leave that below and I will get back to you ASAP.

Please be as responsible for your pet as you are for yourself.

==>  Buy Your Dog’s Thundershirt Here and Calm Those Nerves!!!