Tips for RV Travel With a Pet

According to the American Pet Product Association 2009-2010 pet statistics, 62 percent of all United States households include a pet. Dogs live with 45 percent of the pet owning public, while cats bunk with 38 percent. Recent statistics are not available on how many people pack pets into their recreational vehicles (RVs), but it is clear that pets are on the road. Plan ahead, travel safe and travel smart when accompanied by your pet.

  1. Secure Your Pet

    • A crate can protect your pet in a collision.

      Secure your pet for safe travel when your RV is on the move. Put your pet in a crate of appropriate size and secure the crate on the floor of the RV so that it remains stationary when brakes are applied. Wire and solid-sided plastic crates work best.

      As a crate alternative, you can fit your dog with a canine seat belt harness that allows it to ride safely in any seat with a seat belt. The dog will have room to get up turn around and lay down but will be protected in the event of a quick stop. If you are towing a fifth wheel, be certain to fit your pet securely in the vehicle you are driving until you arrive at your destination.

    Exercise Pens

    • Substitute a picket fence for an exercise pen while on the road.

      Once you arrive at your destination, unfold exercise pens to make a secure yard for your pet right outside the door of your RV. Exercise pens are sold in appropriate heights to contain dogs of all sizes. Folded flat, the pens slide easily into under carriage storage. Exercise pens are available from pet supply retailers. Use as many pens as you want to build a secure space for your pet.

    Water Bowls

    • Leave regular water bowls at home. Travel with a spill-resistant bowl.

      Offer water to your pet in water bowls that don't spill. Choose a water container and bowl manufactured for RV use, or purchase one of several spill-resistant water bowls available from pet supply retailers. Leave these water bowls in the pet's crate or on the floor of your RV. They will not slosh water when on the move and will keep the water bowl area neat when parked.

    Map Out Pet-Friendly Campgrounds

    • Call to make certain your pet will be allowed where you stay.

      Not all campgrounds and RV parks are created equal. Map out your trip so you know ahead of time which facilities will allow your pet. Pet policies can change without notice, so make a quick check of a facility's pet status just prior to getting on the road.