Health and Safety Tips for RVing with Dogs
RVing with your dog is a rewarding experience, but it also comes with responsibilities to ensure your pet’s health and safety. Whether you're heading to a local campsite or embarking on a cross-country adventure, these tips will help keep your furry friend safe, comfortable, and happy on the road.
1. Pre-Trip Vet Check
Before hitting the road, schedule a vet visit to ensure your dog is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations. Discuss your travel plans with your vet, especially if you’ll be in areas prone to ticks, fleas, or heartworm. It's also wise to ask for copies of medical records in case of emergencies.
2. Keep Your Dog Hydrated
Just like humans, dogs need plenty of water, especially when traveling. Make sure your RV is stocked with fresh water and a spill-proof water bowl. Keep an eye on your dog’s hydration, particularly in hot weather, and offer water during stops. Use a portable water dish when out and about.
3. Maintain a Consistent Routine
Dogs thrive on routine, so try to keep feeding, walking, and playtimes consistent with what they’re used to at home. This helps reduce stress and keeps them comfortable in new environments.
4. Safe Traveling
Always secure your dog while driving. Use a crash-tested dog seat belt, crate, or pet carrier to prevent injury in case of sudden stops. Avoid letting your dog ride in the front seat where airbags can pose a danger.
5. Never Leave Your Dog Unattended
The temperature inside an RV can rise quickly, even on mild days, putting your dog at risk of heatstroke. If you need to leave your dog alone, ensure the RV is well-ventilated, use a cooling pad, install an RVLock so you can have someone take your dog out if needed, and consider installing a temperature monitor that can alert you to dangerous conditions.
6. Protect Against Parasites
When RVing, your dog may be exposed to ticks, fleas, and other parasites. Use veterinarian-recommended preventive treatments and check your dog regularly for ticks, especially after hiking or spending time in wooded areas.
7. Prepare a Dog-Friendly First Aid Kit
Accidents happen, so it's essential to have a pet-specific first aid kit in your RV. Include items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers (for tick removal), and any prescribed medications. Familiarize yourself with basic pet first aid, including how to treat wounds and recognize symptoms of common ailments.
8. Watch Out for Wildlife
Many RV destinations are home to wildlife that could be dangerous to your dog. Keep your dog on a leash, especially in unfamiliar areas, and be aware of local wildlife risks like snakes, coyotes, or poisonous plants.
9. Regular Exercise and Mental Stimulation
While RVing, your dog might not get the same amount of exercise as they would at home. Make time for walks, hikes, and playtime to keep your dog physically and mentally stimulated. Bring along their favorite toys, or explore new trails together.
10. Know Emergency Vet Locations
Before you arrive at your destination, research local veterinary clinics and emergency animal hospitals. Having this information handy can save valuable time in an emergency.
RVing with your dog can be a joyous experience filled with adventure and bonding. By following these health and safety tips, you can ensure your pet stays safe, happy, and healthy, making your road trip enjoyable for both of you.
See you (and your furry friend) on the road!
Scott S. on
I’d like to add a couple of things I do… I pack a “go bag” for my two Boxers when I travel with them. It contains extra leashes, collars, toys, treats, etc. It also has a couple of portable dog bowls in there so I can quickly deploy water for them. There are also extra baggies and gloves for cleaning up after them. In the “go bag” for the dogs is also an emergency dog sling (for larger dogs). You can also make one in an emergency out of a sheet.
I also research the vets that are along my route before I drive. I know where the 24hr veterinary emergency rooms are at along my route and my destination before we hit the road.
My two Boxers are picky and won’t relieve (#2) themselves on leash, so I research fuel stops that have an off-leash dog park for them to stretch out and do their business. This works out perfect because I couple those stops with a snack break for the dogs, some water, etc. so that when we get back on the road, they’re nice and worn out for the next leg of the trip.
In my RV, I store a portable dog fence that travels with them. It has 24 panels that are 40" tall, and I have rebar to stake it all down. It allows me to create a “dog run” for the dogs at our destination. This way they can stay outside with me without me worrying about them being on the loose. Total weight is probably 125lbs.
And of course, my RVLock allows for quick access to the trailer at our destination.