An RV is a home on wheels. And what is a home without the pitter-patter of little feet?
Pet feet, we mean.
RVers who are dog or cat owners have the luxury many pet parents do not — the ability to get away from it all without the guilt that comes from abandoning the fur babies. Bringing pets along on your next road trip can add miles of smiles as long as you keep in mind some essentials to keep your pets happy and healthy and your RV clean and safe.
This freedom is easily accessible, especially for those looking for a perfect getaway, as a simple search for an RV rental Las Vegas can kickstart the perfect adventure for the whole family, pets included.
Ramp It Up
Many older or smaller dogs have a hard time climbing into an RV. Ramps can be a great solution. Look for lightweight, sturdy materials (aluminum), non-slip surfaces, foldability and compatibility with your vehicle’s threshold.
Create a Safe Space
Many pets are most comfortable on their bed or blanket in their crate. Because they may not be as relaxed as you on the open road, a familiar place to curl up will do much to ease any anxiety while on the move.
Make the Essentials Easy
A few things to keep in mind for RVing with pets when it comes to eating, drinking and toilet breaks:
- Collapsible food and water bowls save space in the RV and on the trail (even if the trail ends at a pooch-friendly sidewalk café).
- Lidded containers are a tidier solution for dry food than the bags they come in.
- Eco-friendly waste bags take up less space than a pooper scooper.
First Aid Isn’t a Second Thought
Pet-specific first-aid kits are a great idea. While a human kit will cover most contingencies, it probably won’t come with a tick remover, pill shooter or soft muzzle. Oh, and make sure you bring along your pet’s medication and vaccination records. 
Be Committed to Cleanliness
Pets will get into some things, be it on a hike in the woods or a walk across a parking lot. Keeping your dog or cat — not to mention your RV — clean requires some planning so as not to strain the fresh water tank. Plan on bringing:
- The right type of brush for your pet’s coat eliminates dirt, mud and burs.
- Dry pet shampoo or wipes keep down the dirty dog smell.
- Towels tame the wet pet smell down and keep the furniture dry.
See and Secure Your Pet
Car seat harnesses for dogs are a great idea any time, and especially in a big room on wheels where pets can get pretty far away from their owners. Wherever you’re stopping for the day or night, make sure your pet is wearing a reflective collar or harness. When you’re out and about, a six-foot leash is standard for public trails. A wire lead attached to your RV is a great option to give your dog a bit more roaming room at the campsite.
Random Tips
- Keep recent pictures of your pet — full body and face — in your phone.
- If you have to keep your pet in the RV unattended (a practice rightfully frowned upon), a temperature monitoring system is a must.
- Pack the quiet toys (better for concentrating on the road and not disturbing your fellow campers).
- Pet carrier backpacks are great for little critters on long hikes.
- Consider a portable pet pen for letting your dog enjoy the great outdoors without getting lost.
Hitting the Road
Correctly outfitting your RV — both for you and your pets — is essential to a great getaway. It’s important to find camping accessories for sale from a provider you can trust. Detours from your planned route can make for an adventure, but failing to plan properly for the creature comforts of all your companion creatures is not the way you want to get sidetracked.
Of course, make sure your pet is wearing tags and is microchipped. Wherever they roam, they need to be able to get back home.