RV Traveling with Pets...Toto, Too?

       One of the great advantages of traveling by RV is being able to take your pets with you on your travels. A limited number of hotels accept pets and even if they do, they usually charge a extra fee and you can't leave them in the room unattended. RVing allows you a safe and comfortable space for your furry friend.
      If you do decided to include Fido in your travels, it's important to plan ahead so you and your pet can fully enjoy the trip.
       Before you go...things to bring with...

• Medical Records including Vaccine records (make sure they're up to date including the distemper combo for dogs . This has the lepto vax which is transmitted through raccoon and other wild animal feces/dirty puddles)
• A kennel or carrier just in case, leash
• Flea, tick and heartworm prevention (this includes cats they can get all three of these as well)
• Food, bowls, medications, treats, toys, bed etc.
• ID tag/microchip as well as a recent photo
• Brush (there's a lot of burrs out there) and extra towels
• Pet first aid kit

For a full 3 page RV Travel Checklist, go to i94rv.com

There is a button on the bottom left hand side of the page for a downloadable checklist

      

     ...do your research...

•  Not all campgrounds are pet friendly. Make sure you check ahead to see what the regulations are at your planned stops on the trip. Here's a good site for checking National Park Policies http://takeyourpet.com/national-park-pet-policies/national-parks-by-state
•  Know where the closest vet hospital is and check their reputation for emergency situations
•  Go for short rides with you pet prior to the "big trip" Many animals get motion sickness like people do. If your pet vomits in the car or looks "green", talk to your vet. They might be able to recommend something that will help them out when traveling. It also helps if they travel on an empty stomach when possible.

     ...while on the road...

•  Consider restraining your pet while moving. In case of a sudden stop, you don't want your pet to get injured.
• Make sure you stop often to give your dog a chance to stretch and go potty.
• Obey the rules of where you stay. Pick up after your pet and only let them go potty in designated areas. 
•  Follow the leash laws. If your dog is allowed to be off leash, keep them within eyesight. There are things dogs love to eat that they shouldn't (salmon corpses can be deadly, for example) Wild animals can cause injury or death if provoked. If they can't be kept with eyesight, they shouldn't be off leash.
•  Don't let your dog bark nonstop. It's not fair to the other campers that don't love your little pumpkin the way you do. If this has become their habit, try to give them something else to do. There are many options out there for treat filled toys, puzzle squeeky toys and rawhide (USA made only) that will keep a dog busy for a long time. 
•  Never leave your pet in the RV without heat or A/C. A pet can overheat within minutes causing a life or death situation. Putting a radio or TV on while your gone can prevent your pooch from barking at strange noises outside.
• Have a sign on the outside of your vehicle that says "dog/cat inside" so people know before they open the door there is a critter inside.

Let us know if you have any other recommendations for staying safe with your pet on the road. If you have a story to tell, feel free to share!
Happy Trails!
i94RV
i94rv.com