Traveling With Pets in Your RV
Taking your family on a relaxing RV camping trip is always enjoyable, but wouldn’t it be even more fun if you could bring every single member of your family? We’re talking about pets! You shouldn’t have to board Mittens or Milo or find a friend to come feed them when you can acclimate them to your RV and bring them along on your travels.
While bringing your cat or dog along for the ride does require some prep work, it’s definitely worth it for the end result! Here are some helpful tips to ease the process.
Get Your Pet Ready
First, you’ll want to ensure that your pet is healthy enough for traveling. Take them to the vet for an exam and talk to your vet about your plans. You’ll probably want to grab some flea medication, too. Refill any medications your pet takes on a regular basis and also have them microchipped if they aren’t already. A microchip will increase the chances of your pet being returned to you if they’re lost. Make sure that you pack plenty of their favorite food, treats and all their toys and favorite bed, too.
Acclimate Them to the RV
Your pet will not go gentle into that good camper if you don’t take the time to acclimate them to it first. Take some of your pet’s favorite objects and treats into the RV and throw a blanket that smells like the house over the furniture. Bring your pet into the RV while it’s parked in the driveway and allow them to explore at their own pace. Play with them and feed them some treats and speak to them in a gentle voice to encourage them to relax. There are some medications, supplements and hormonal plug-ins that can also help to calm your cat or dog further.
Keep Your Pet Safe
The safety of your pet is very important while you’re traveling. When the vehicle is in motion, your pet should be in a carrier or kennel to keep them safe. A pet that’s allowed to roam free could cause a distraction that results in a car wreck. Also, they could be thrown around if you brake suddenly. Have someone else watch your pet and ensure that they’re doing okay.
When you stop for rest, leash your pet before taking them out of the RV and keep them leashed unless you find a fenced area to let them roam in. Use this time to give them some water and food. Never leave your pet unattended in the RV on a hot day; it’s always best to take them with you. For your dog, a leash will work, but your cat may prefer to go on a hike in a special backpack designed for felines!
Looking to buy an RV? Stop by our dealership in Richland, WA, to check out our wide selection of new and used RVs for sale. Horn Rapids RV proudly serves the city of Kennewick, WA.