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Are you planning to hit the road with your pet? RV pet safety should be a the top of your to-do list. There are a few safety considerations while RVing with pets. We have been traveling with Gizmo for over a year, and he loves it! I highly recommend taking your pets with you on the road and letting them explore all the sights and smells along the way. Here are a few things we have learned about taking our sweet dog on the road.

RV Pet Safety Considerations

If you are in the market for an RV, be sure to consider your pet when making the purchase.

Will your pet be able to enter and exit the RV on their own?
Carpet: The more carpet, the more fur and dirt will be collected.
Will there be space for your pet's crate, bed, blanket, or litter box with the rig open and closed?
Will there be room for your pet to sleep comfortably with the slides closed?
Is there a place to keep food and water bowls without them getting kicked around?
If they usually sleep with you, are they able to easily get up on the bed?

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RV Temperature Control

RVs can heat up quickly, just like a car, and can be deadly for pets. Temperature management is essential for the health and safety of all pets. If you cannot monitor the temperature, don't leave your pet alone for long periods of time. If you have electric hookups, make sure the air conditioner or heater is on just if it's needed while you are away.

There are many temperature monitoring systems available on the market that work great and provide peace of mind. We have been using a wifi temperature monitoring system for more than a year that has worked perfectly. We love the fact that it doesn't require a monthly fee. All you need is active wifi and download the app to connect to the system.

We use the Govee wifi digital temperature monitor . We purchased it off Amazon for $50.

This device will send an alert if the temperature goes out of the range that Phil set up. You can also go into the app to check the temperature and humidity. We can't imagine traveling without this device. It really gives us peace of mind.

Introduce your pet to the RV

Slowly introducing your pet to the RV will allow them to become comfortable before you start to travel. There are several things you can do to help facilitate the process.

Allow your pet to hang out and explore the RV before hitting the road.
Bring their bed, blanket, or crate into the RV and allow your pet to get comfortable.
Take your pet on small rides in the RV whenever possible.
Allow them to hear the engine and generator before hitting the road. They can be very loud and scary for pets.
Pets may show signs of anxiety while traveling in the RV. These symptoms may include: pacing, whining, drooling.
It may take time for your pet to adjust to traveling and life in the RV.
If you think your pet is having severe symptoms or is not adjusting to RV life's transition, be sure to consult your veterinarian.

Before You Hit the Road

Pets, like babies, come with a lot of stuff. Make a list of everything your pet will need, so nothing is forgotten. Here are just a few things you may need to bring for your furry friend.

Leash
Toys
Poop Bags
Crate
Bed or Blanket
Vaccine Record
Couch or chair protectors
Update all vaccines
An adequate supply of medications
Printed copies of health record if not available online
Updated tag with phone numbers instead of old home address
Any other specific supplies required by your pet

Travel Days

Travel days can take a toll on your dog even after they adjust to riding in the RV. Here are a few tips that can help the travel day go smoothly for your RV dog.

Take your dog on a long walk before the drive begins.
Stop frequently to walk your dog based on when they would usually go out.
Offer water during your stops.
Try to keep your dog on their usual eating schedule.
Use a seat belt designed for your dog's weight.

Gizmo helps with pet RVing Tips

Be a Considerate Dog Owner

Rolls of doggy bags — Don't Forget Your Poo Bag

Please be a considerate RV neighbor. Here are some tips to keep your neighbors your friends.

Be mindful of your dog's barking and how it affects the neighbors.
Always put your dog on a leash unless in an approved leash-free area.
- People/pets have been bitten due to pets not being walked on a leash in campgrounds.
- Your dog may not be aggressive, but other dogs might be aggressive.
Pick up after your pet.
- Pet waste is high in nitrogen and can burn the grass.
- Waste also can carry bacteria and parasites that can infect other pets and animals for years.

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Be Prepared

There may be a time during your travels in which your pet will need emergency care as you arrive in a new area. Lookup local vets to prepare ahead of time. Placing a whiteboard on the fridge will allow you to keep all local emergency numbers close at hand for quick reference.

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