Half the fun of having dogs is being able to take them with you on every adventure. But while they’re generally more comfortable in uncomfortable situations than people are, dogs still have needs that you’ll want to make sure you’ve planned for, before you set off on your next RV road trip. Here’s a quick overview of some of the things you might need and what you should consider before heading out.
Food and Water
Be sure to think ahead and plan for the amount of food each dog will need on your trip. It’s a good idea to pack extra food in case you spill some, pests get to it, you stay out longer than intended, or your dog is just hungrier than normal. It’s also important to account for pets when planning for water supplies; remember to carry enough filtered or potable water for all four-legged friends.
Medications
Pack enough medication to cover your pet’s needs for the duration of your trip. It’s a good idea to bring the prescription or have your vet write a new one in case you end up on the road longer than planned or lose the medication along the way. Make sure you account for medication storage needs, as some must be refrigerated or kept in a dark, cool place.
Leash, Tags, and Paperwork
Your neighbors at home probably recognize your dog and know it by name, but strangers on the road do not. It’s extremely important that your dog and any other pets have proper documentation, including a collar with an ID tag. It’s a good idea to pack vaccination records—especially your dog’s rabies certificate—in case it is injured, bites someone, or another issue arises.
Cleaning Supplies
Finally, make sure to pack the cleaning supplies you’ll need to keep up with one or more dogs on the road. Extra trash bags, paper towels, cleaning sprays, and more are a great addition to your packing list. Be sure to pack bags to clean up bathroom messes, too, as no one likes finding a dog’s surprise hiding in the grass. It’s also important to pack any fencing or containment gear you need to let your dog safely relax outside.
If you want to learn more about the best and easiest ways to road trip with a dog, the knowledgeable staff at Valley RV is here to help. We’d be excited to review your packing lists to make sure you’ve got everything you need, and we’d love to show you the latest pet-friendly Jayco RV models.
