Once considered an unrefined mode of transportation meant for lollygaggers and retirees, recreational vehicles – more commonly referred to as RVs and motorhomes – have become an increasingly popular option among world travelers. What’s more, many RV owners embrace the idea of making it a home-away-from-home adventure.
Given the uptick in pet ownership, it’s no surprise those traveling by motorhome choose to take dogs and cats along for the ride. In fact, more than 65% of RV travelers bring their pets.
With that said, traveling with a pet presents its own set of challenges and obstacles. The following is a guide for preparing to take your dog or cat on your next RV adventure:
Turn Pets Into Passengers
While pets may ride in the car sometimes, driving in a motorhome is a different experience that could easily frighten your pet. This is something you have to anticipate and address before the trip. What you want to do is help your pet get used to this type of transportation. Take a few short trips in your RV with your pet so that it can get used to the ride. Your pet is going to be less anxious if it knows what to expect. Remember to plan for breaks to allow your pet to stretch.
Opt for Odor Management
You know that pets tend to generate foul odors. These odors are especially noticeable in smaller spaces, which means dog and cat smells will be more concentrated in a motorhome. One thing you can do is swap traditional clay cat litter for cleaner alternatives that trap odors better and maintain freshness longer. This will ensure you can keep the living quarters and passenger areas smelling pleasant. You should also consider dumping waste a little more frequently. This can also prevent the discomfort and mild headaches one can deal with due to foul smells. Odor-neutralizing sprays, scheduled upholstery cleaning, and adequate ventilation effectively keep pet smells from ruining your RV adventure.
Add Pet-Friendly Activities
At home, you know where to take your pet. You know all the great pet-friendly spots where your pet can exercise and feel good. All that goes away when you’re on RV adventure. You need to add pet-friendly activities to the trip. Plan a schedule that allows you to spend time with your pet doing whatever you and your pet want to do. Creating a plan ensures that your pet exercises properly and is adequately stimulated. Be sure to bring plenty of food, especially if your pet has allergies. Any pet will need these things to stay healthy and in high spirits. Give pets a little more attention. If your pet wants to sleep with you, make sure you allow that.
Using a Local Pet Sitter
You should do as much as possible with your pet, but you may not be able to take your pet everywhere. There could be a wonderful state park that doesn’t allow you to bring your pet. Maybe you want to check out a random restaurant, but the restaurant doesn’t allow pets. For days like these, you’ll want to hire a local pet sitter or walker. You need someone who will take care of your pet for a few hours while you explore an area. You could also leave your pet in the RV for short outings, but if you do this, you may want to close the blinds and maybe play some soothing music so that your pet isn’t startled by outside sounds, which could be stressful.
Smart Collars
If your beloved pet gets lost at home, you’d lose your mind. Try to imagine how you’d feel if this happens on the road. You don’t even know where to look. It can happen, and it’s a big reason pet owners prefer to keep their pets at home. The good thing is you’ve got a way to address this problem. You should use the smart technology you have available during your RV adventure. You want to purchase smart collars for your pet. You’ll be able to track your pet using your smartphone or tablet. Hopefully, you never have to worry about your pet leaving or getting lost, but you have this collar to help you find your pet if that does happen.
Now, you know what you need to do to bring your pet along on your next adventure. Make sure you take your pet to the vet before the trip to make sure everything is okay.
Featured Photo by Ja San Miguel on Unsplash
