What You Must Know Before Rving with a Pet

As fuel prices level off and dip this year, many who mothballed their RVs last year
during the five dollar a gallon fiasco are airing out the Airstream, fluffing the mattresses
in the fifth wheel or weather proofing the Winnebago, getting ready to hit the open road
once again.

Whether you're a seasoned RV-er or this is your maiden season as an American road
gypsy, if you're also a pet owner you have special considerations.

First, do you take your pets traveling with you, board or leave them with a trusted friend
or family member? Some pets travel better than others. Most dogs and even some cats
would rather go along and can be wonderful traveling companions. They won't ever ask
you “are we there yet,” for one thing, and it does help, if you've a driver who dislikes
stopping for breaks, to be able to press the need for a rest stop because Jack the
Terrier really, really, really needs to potty.

If you're going to be parked somewhere long term at an RV facility or campground,
check ahead to find out what the policies are regarding pets. Getting to your destination
only to find out you have to ditch your reservations and try to find an opening
somewhere down the road because your chosen site doesn't allow pets is likely to turn
into a frustrating experience, especially if you're taking your trip during a busy part of the
season. Vacancies can be difficult to come by at the last minute.

For the parts of your excursion when you'll be on the road, you'll want to make sure
your pet is as safe as possible and isn't a distraction while the vehicle's moving down
the highway at cruising speed. Crates are always an option, but if your companion is a
large dog, you may want to opt for a seat harness that will keep your pal safely in a seat
rather than having a large crate to try to maneuver around in the body of the RV. Many
pets prefer this since it allows them to look out the window.

It's always a good idea to have a copy of your pet's vaccination records and a health
certificate from your vet, especially a rabies vaccination certification if your dog is over
three months old. Rarely will there be a problem carrying a dog or cat into different
states in the U.S., but some birds, reptiles and amphibians may be proscribed in some
states, so if you're making an interstate trip, you might want to leave the pet gecko
home to work on his insurance business.

Carry a first aid kit that's relevant to your pet. Make sure you have an adequate supply
of any prescription medications your pet may be on, and having a copy of the
prescription isn't a bad idea in case you lose the medication or run out. Many veterinary
prescriptions can be filled at a pharmacy.

If you're traveling with dogs, dramamine is a staple in a first aid kit. It helps with travel
sickness as well as anxiety. Activated charcoal, simethicone gas caplets, Pepto Bismol,
benadryl, sterile eye wash, antibiotic ointment or betadine, gauze, pet wrap, an
appropriately sized splint, gel super glue; all have their place in a well thought out first
aid kit for your dog. If you have questions about what's appropriate and safe for your
pet, consult your veterinarian.

So many people who travel now use GPS gadgets and one of the useful features is
being able to locate a veterinary office wherever you are traveling should the need
arise.

Pack along some interactive type toys that you keep especially for trips, and along with
those, take at least one of your pet's favorite “security blanket” objects. If this is a first
time trip for your pet, you can make the initial days less potentially confusing and
stressful by spending some time out in the RV with your pet, doing normal, day to day
activities and making one meal time a day take place out in the camper.

Having your dog chipped and/or tattooed is a good safeguard, as well as keeping a
sturdy, visible collar with an information tag attached can save you and your companion
heartache should the unthinkable happen and your dog somehow become separated
from you.

Follow good, common sense guidelines and safety practices and your RV trip with your
pet should be an experience both of you enjoy -- and look forward to planning again and
again.

Article provided by Marsha Shipe of www.pet-super-store.com; Where you can find great deals on Dog Beds and Dog Crates