RVers don’t leave home without…their dogs! And, yes, the credit card. RVing and RV full-time living doesn’t mean leaving the pets at—well, somewhere else. Many RVers love the company of a cherished pet on the road. And the kids may insist!
We’re talking about what to keep in mind when RVing with your dog. Dogs. Sorry, cat people, we’re not addressing felines today, but much of what follows easily applies to cats as well.
Did you know that Idaho residents pay less for the same services and necessities for dogs than in any other state? Veterinarian service, food, grooming, boarding: it’s all cheaper in Idaho. RVers will benefit even if they aren’t a permanent resident. So pack up the leash and dog treats and head to Mountain Home, Idaho. Oh, don’t forget the dog.
Keeping Your Dog (and You) Safe
Pet guardianship in the U.S. is at the highest levels in several generations. RVs plus dogs equal a bit more planning for daily life and a lot more fun. On the road, a stop every two hours is recommended to walk your dog, but it’s important for alert driving as much as for having clean floors.
- Current identification in the form of a collar and tag and especially a microchip is essential. Yes, we know you know that, but it bears repeating. These days, GPS trackers are popular for dogs. These are separate devices from a microchip, and make hiking with your dog less worrisome.
- Consider an RV temperature alert system. These operate through your cell phone and will let you know when temperatures and humidity levels threaten your pet should you need to leave your dog in the RV—even for a short time. RV interiors can be as lethal as cars when it comes to pets and electricity can fail at the most unexpected times.
- Sun shades for windows and awnings keep you cool as much as your pet. An awning can reduce temperatures by as much as 15 degrees.
- Medical information, vaccination records, first aid items, leash, and, of course, toys and beds are part of your packing. You may want to consider a seat belt harness also.
- A portable pen can give your dog a bit more space and many states have laws against chaining dogs. Leaving a dog leashed and unattended in RV parks is generally forbidden.
Where Can You Go?
Basically, everywhere! Anywhere!! Dog-friendly RV parks and campgrounds pepper every state in the U.S. As you plan your itinerary, check the RV parks and campgrounds for any pet restrictions and rules. Some may ask for a small deposit or fee; others may have restrictions on the size or breed of dog for their insurance liability.
Good manners—and not just on the part of the dogs—will keep your fellow travelers and your park manager happy. A barking dog, failure to clean up after your dog, and an aggressive pet can get you ejected from a park without a refund.
State and national parks are also dog-friendly, but check the requirements for each park. Don’t forget that some of the local wildlife may find your dog a tasty treat. And wildlife is a point of intense interest for any dog. Protection here works both ways. The sharpest eye may need to be yours.
Mountain Home, Idaho
So, about Idaho: Stunning vistas, unlimited adventures, lakes and hiking and more than we can list here. Plus a cheaper outlay for food and pet supplies. Can it get any better?
Yes.
Mountainbound Custom Storage & RV Park is dog friendly and will have great amenities such as a dog park for a wild, free exercise session (wearing out the dog gives the humans some down time!), and people-friendly additions such as a laundromat, café, concierge and detail services – the perfect home for your two- and four-legged family.
