Living the #RVLife is just better with a dog. Plain and simple. That said, traveling full time with our pups comes with a unique set of challenges. By taking a few simple steps, you can make life on the road easier for you and your dog.
Stay on top of vet appointments
Before you hit the road, you'll want to make sure your dog is up to date on their shots. Some campgrounds require proof of certain vaccinations, such as rabies, upon check-in. Have an electronic or hard copy of your pet's vaccination record just in case. It's also a good idea to stock up on any medications your pet may need during your RV trip, as vet offices are not always easy to come by in rural areas.
Double check your destination's pet policy
There are thousands of RV parks and campgrounds across the country that allow dogs. Even "pet friendly" campgrounds have strict rules about four-legged visitors. Some of the most common include leash requirements, breed restrictions and limits on the number of pets at a campsite. Many campgrounds do not allow dogs to be left unattended while outside, even on a leash. Some have specific areas that are off-limits to dogs. Failing to read the fine print in your campground's pet policy could cost you.
Get them comfortable being alone in the RV
Whether you're going on the road full time or are just a weekend warrior, there will likely come a time you'll want to leave your dog unattended in the RV. If you're nervous about how your dog will respond to being alone in this new space, start by leaving them for short periods of time and work your way up. Make sure they have a safe, comfortable space to stay while you're away. Many RVers invest in pet cameras and temperature monitors to ensure their pets' safety.
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Stick to their routine as much as possible
Keeping a sense of normalcy was key to helping our dogs adjust to RV life. When possible, stick to your dog's normal feeding time, exercise schedule and sleep schedule. This can make a big difference in helping your pup feel at home on the road.
Set up a comfortable outdoor space
One of the best parts of RV life is spending time relaxing outside at our campsite. Just as humans need a comfortable place to sit, our pups need a space to lounge with us in the outdoors. Outdoor pet beds are a great option and can be found at a variety of price points. Whenever we move to a new site, we set up the same outdoor dog bed and outdoor rug for our pups. If you don't want to invest in a new bed, a towel or blanket will work, as well.
Have patience with your dog
All dogs are different. That's what makes them so fun! Some will adapt to RV living easily while others might take some time to adjust. Being in a new environment can be stressful for a dog. Some don't do well on long road trips or being in a small space. Take things slow and don't get discouraged if your pup doesn't love life on the road right away.
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