Articles >> Travelling with Pets

Travelling with Pets

There's no reason why you should leave your pet alone at home if you're travelling in your RV. We have put together some tips to keep your cat or dog happy and safe while you're on the road. Stop by our Parts and Accessories Department and we'd be happy to answer any additional questions you might have about owning the proper pet gear. We're located in the greater Spokane, WA area near Coeur d'Alene, Lewiston, and Post Falls, ID.

Getting your Pets Adjusted

Animals can get nervous easily when they're put in a new environment. The stranger the environment, the more stressed your pet can get, and RVs are pretty far from the ordinary for most cats and dogs. In the days leading up to your RV adventure, get your pet acclimated to the RV by giving them supervised time to explore and sniff around. Place your pet's bed and food where they'll be located as you travel so they can get their bearings and find some familiarity in the new environment. Bringing your pets favorite at home toy inside the RV can help as well. If you get the opportunity, bring your companion along for a test drive to get them used to the sounds and feel of an RV on the road. Make sure you keep an eye on your pets and secure any areas you don't want them getting into (cupboards and cabinets make a tempting place for nervous kitties). If your pet is having trouble adjusting to the RV, try some classic conditioning and use treats to help them understand that the RV is a safe environment.

As you Travel

When travelling with pets make sure you're taking frequent breaks. Stress can cause pets to need to potty more often, so make sure that you're allowing your dog to get out and relieve themself frequently enough. Get a leash specifically for your RV so you don't accidentally leave it at home, and make sure you keep it close to the door so you can get your pup safely hooked up before heading out at the rest stop.

Pets, like people, are creatures of habit, so reduce your pet's stress by maintaining a schedule similar to what they're used to. A dog who's accustomed to a walk in the morning may get mopey or frustrated if he doesn't get to stretch his legs before you hit the road. Feeding times should be kept in line with your typical schedule, even if that means taking an extra break to pull over and serve up some kibble.

When you're picking out your campground, make sure to confirm that your pet will be welcome. Most RV campgrounds are fairly welcoming to dogs as long as they stay on leash, but this isn't a given, especially in areas with sensitive wildlife. Make sure to confirm your campsite pet policy before making your reservation!!

Health and Safety

Before you leave on your trip with your furry friend, stop and visit your vet. Talk to your veterinarian about your travel plans, so they can get a better picture of how to protect your animal. Various pet diseases like heartworm are common in some areas and almost unheard of in others, so make sure you protect your cat or dog by getting them properly vaccinated before you travel.

One of the greatest hazards your pet may face when you travel is heat. Your RV, like a car, can go from comfortably cool to dangerously hot in a matter of minutes, even in temperate weather. If you're taking your pet with you on the road, make sure that they have access to water, and a climate controlled environment. If you're heading out for a summer vacation and think you may have to leave your pet alone in the RV or truck for an extended period of time (more than 10-20 minutes) then consider boarding your pet safely instead.

Stop by RVs Northwest and we'll be more than happy to help you out with your pet needs. Our dealership is located in the greater Spokane, Washington area and we're just a short drive from Coeur d'Alene, Post Falls, and Lewiston, Idaho.