RV Traveling with Pets

No one likes leaving their pets behind when they travel, between the hassle of finding a pet sitter and the heartbreak of looking into their sad eyes. When you travel by RV, you won't have to go through this ordeal! Many dogs and cats are well-suited for hitting the road as long as you are proactive and do some preparing. We've rounded up our favorite tips for bringing your pet along for the ride below. For all your camper needs, visit Howdy Ranch RV. We proudly serve those in Corpus Christi, San Antonio, Rockport, Laredo, and Victoria, Texas.

Prepare Your Pet

Traveling can be anxiety-provoking for animals. They may not understand what's going on, may be fearful of being left behind, or may be assuming the worst - that they are headed to the dreaded vet. With a little preparation, you can make the trip as easy as possible on your pets.

Start by letting your pet get comfortable with your camper. Let them explore your RV in a calm environment taking their time to walk around, investigate, and smell all the strange smells. You can even bring their favorite toys and treats to help them associate your camper with fun! After your animal is comfortable with your stationary RV, go on a few trips around the neighborhood so they can get used to it moving.

On the Road

There are a few strategies to keeping your pet safe while your RV is moving. First, they should always be in the same vehicle as you. If you are towing your camper, keep your animal in the tow vehicle with you. Second, anytime the vehicle is in motion, your pet should be secure in a crate or a carrier. Letting them wander around freely inside your RV puts them at risk in case of an accident and can interfere with your ability to drive safely. They may try to jump on your lap or get tangled up in your feet.

You'll also want to take frequent breaks for your animals. This gives them a chance to go to the bathroom, stretch their legs, run around and get any stress out, and help them have fun on the trip! After all, dogs love sniffing around new areas. Put the leash on your pet before you open any RV doors. You don't want your dog or cat bolting out and getting hit by a car or getting lost. Take this break time to offer them some water so they can stay hydrated as well.

Bring Items from Home

Animals benefit from routine and familiarity. Bring your pets' bed to help them sleep better. It has their scent on it, which can help them feel more comfortable in your camper. You'll want to pack their normal food as well. Changing up brands and ingredients can cause digestive problems, which can be made worse by the stress of traveling. Bring along more food than you think you'll need to be safe. Finally, don't forget to take along their favorite toys and treats to make the trip even more fun!

We hope you found these tips helpful! If you are looking to buy a camper, visit Howdy Ranch RV. We offer a wide selection of models for a range of families. Whether you want a small bare-bones model or a large option full of amenities, we can help you find what you need. Our friendly staff is always happy to answer questions and provide advice about what models work best for your unique budget and needs. We proudly serve those in Corpus Christi, San Antonio, Rockport, Laredo, and Victoria, Texas.