Advice for RVing With Your Dog for the First Time
Everyone loves a good camping trip, including our dogs! If you’re looking for a reason to get out, then go RVing with your pup. With some need-to-know advice for RVing with your dog for the first time, you both will have the perfect ride. Once you know your dog’s ready to travel, settle on a location and plan the perfect trip!
Prepare Your Dog
Before you load up the RV, take your dog to the vet for a checkup. You’ll want to make sure your precious pooch is in good health and up for the trip! Your pup may also need various vaccinations or medications to remain safe. Likewise, if you plan to do vigorous outdoor activities, your furry companion needs to have good health!
If this is your first long ride with your dog, you may want to try a test run in the RV. Some dogs get carsick, and others get anxious. A little test run lets both of you know what to expect before you’re in it for the long haul.
Plan Bonding Activities
This is your first trip with your dog, so take extra care as you create your itinerary. To start, you’ll need to stay at dog-friendly campsites. Likewise, when you go site-seeing, check for routes that allow our four-legged friends to tag along. Once you arrive, start exploring together! But remember the campsite’s rules, especially about leashes.
Vacations are the perfect time to bond, and no dog wants to sit in the RV all day when there’s a new environment to explore! But if you happen to do an activity or two where your pup can’t join, then make sure they remain safe in the camper. Your RV should have reliable interior locks—this prevents anyone from breaking in while your pet is alone.
Pack Accordingly for Plans
Another bit of advice for RVing with your dog for the first time is to pack everything you need for your excursions. Pet travel experts recommend packing:
- Food and treats
- Collapsible bowls
- Toys
- Collar/harness and leash
- First-aid kit
- Potty bags
You’ll need to bring plenty of bottled water too—you’ll share that! Other crucial items to pack include your dog’s ID tags and veterinary records. In the event of an emergency, you may need this information. Likewise, your pup needs to wear its tags in case it manages to break free. If you plan and pack accordingly, the two of you can focus on bonding with one another in nature!