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Bringing pets along on your RV trip is something that most pet owners want to do, and if it is done correctly, it can be a wonderful experience for both you and your family, and your pet.  I know that I am not alone in wanting to travel with my pet, as a survey done by the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association states that almost 50% of all RV’ers travel with their pets, with the majority of those pets being dogs.   However, make sure you take all necessary precautions to ensure your furry friend stays safe and healthy for the duration of your trip.

For me, there really was no question about whether or not to bring our Chihuahua, Gisele.  First of all, we would be gone for 4 months, and I wouldn’t want to leave her for that amount of time.  Obviously I would never board her, but I also wouldn’t want to impose on someone else and have them watch her for that long period of time.  Our Gisele is most definitely a member of our family, and she is a “come-with” dog.  She goes where we go, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.  However, Gisele is no spring chicken, so I did make sure that she was healthy, and prepared for such a lengthy trip.

For the inside of the RV, we did not use a crate.  Because Gisele is so small, and always came with me, she never really used one, and using one now would have only brought her additional space.  However, if your dog has used a crate in the past, I would suggest using it on the RV.  Crates are not cruel, in fact, they make the animals feel safe and secure.  Also, they are safer for the pet, and for the driver.  For Gisele, we used her normal bed in a corner of the rig near one of the recliners.  It simulated her spot at home, and worked really well.  If you do need a crate, be sure to find a safe and secure spot for it.  I have one friend who had to remove one of her recliners so she could fit the crate, but she didn’t use the recliner anyway, so the space wasn’t missed at all.  I also brought all of Gisele’s things from home.  We used the same water bowl and feeding dish, and brought along all her favorite toys and her blanket.

Before we left I had Gisele get a full physical from our vet, as I wanted to make sure she was healthy.  Also, I needed to get an international health certificate, as it is required for crossing the border into Canada.  You will want all immunizations to be update, including the rabies vaccine.  You will need to have proof of the rabies vaccine on the health certificate, that is once again, required for entry into Canada.  Also, if your pet requires any medication, now is the time to get enough to cover you for the duration of your trip.  When my dog was just a puppy, we had her micro chipped, which is something I would recommend.  It is easy, relatively cheap, and extremely valuable should your pet get lost.  All city/state animal service departments have microchip readers, and it really is the best and easiest way to have your pet identified.  You should also keep a recent photo of your pet on you, so in the event that he/she does get lost, you will have a photo available immediately to show others.  

A few notes to mention.  Never leave a dog or cat alone in the vehicle for a long period of time.  Especially if the vehicle is not air conditioned.  Animals can overheat just as easily as humans do, and honestly, it is just cruel to do that.  They need to be in a well ventilated area at all times.  Also, leaving your dog for a long time can really upset them.  My dog would be extremely offended if I ever left her for a long time, and she would get back at me by either ripping my magazines to shreds, or pooping in one of my shoes.  Nice, huh?

Not all RV parks and campgrounds allow pets, so be sure to check before hand.  I never quite understood why some parks forbid pets, but hey, to each his own I guess.  When you do stop in a park of campground, be sure to take good care of your pet, and be a responsible owner.  Meaning, pick up your dog’s poop, and don’t let him/her bark excessively.  I have owned pets my entire life and I am a true animal lover.  However, even I get angry and frustrated when I must deal with a dog that barks constantly.  So, take care of your pet’s needs, and they will take care of yours.

A pet is also a huge responsibility when traveling by RV.  Obviously you need to stop for potty breaks, and give your pet time to run around and exercise.  You need to choose special RV parks and campgrounds that will allow you to have a pet.  And of course, you need to give him/her all the love and care that you would normally provide at home.  However, I feel these are small prices to pay for the enjoyment you get from bringing your pet along.  We have so many wonderful memories of walking Gisele in remote Canadian parks, and in Denali National Park.  Gisele had such a wonderful time running in all that open expanse, and it was so much fun watching her.  I could never leave her at home, as she is such an integral part of our family.  Our Alaskan journey was that much better because of her presence and I hope and pray she will be around for many more journey’s to come!

Please come back on Friday, October 3rd for our thirteenth installment, “And We‘re Off!“.  See you there!