One of the most popular classes at our annual truck camper rally is Dyanah Musgrave’s “Traveling with Pets.” It seems like everyone travels with some kind of pet, so its no surprise that her class is so well-liked. Since everyone can’t attend our annual rally, we thought it would be a good idea to present Dyanah’s class material in this article. We hope you enjoy it and can learn a thing or two.
It’s time to hit the road, but it wouldn’t be the same without the entire family including our furry family members. How many of you travel with a dog? Cat? Bird, other?? Whether you are in an RV, car or traveling by air, the most important thing when traveling with your pet is to keep them safe, healthy, happy and comfortable.
Pet safety
Always confine your pet while in a vehicle. Wearing seat belts help to keep you from going through a windshield or being ejected. Our pets deserve the same protection. Case in point: A pup was riding on a pillow on a lap in an RV. The RV was hit by a car that ran a red light. As a result of the impact, the Pup slammed into the momma’s face when the air bag deployed. The little pup died from the impact and momma had multiple facial fractures.
Securing your pet in either a crate or using a seat belt/seat restraints will ensure the pups stays in the vehicle during an accident. Having a crate, even a folding crate, is a good item to have in the event of evacuation. Most evacuation shelters will not allow an animal without some form of confinement. What happens when you don’t? A family driving with their three pups hit a patch of black ice, rolling their vehicle. The three pups were ejected from the SUV. One pup took off running on the highway. It is the fight or flight natural instinct. This could have resulted in many pups being hit by a car, though in this case none of them were, fortunately.
Every pet should have a “GO BAG” packed with several items. These should include food, medications, medical records, health certificate, rabies certificate or a titer test results, tick puller, Benadryl for snake bites or bee stings, and snipers/side cutters. It should also include gauze and tape for wounds and a muzzle in case the pup gets injured and needs to be restrained. If you are going to be in a wooded area have a brush vest to prevent burrs or foxtails. Booties are important for heat, rocks, burrs and stickers.
If your pet gets bit or stung, make sure you get a good description of the attacker. If possible, get a photo. Get to a vet quickly. If that is not possible call a local veterinarian hospital describe the bite/sting. The local vets know the indigenous animals which can expedite treatment.
All pets should have visible current identification, including a current phone number that is with you. Micro chipping your pet is highly recommended.
If at an RV park or hotel, use a piece of tape or temporary tags with RV space or hotel and room number. This can get a wondering pup returned quickly. There are many “find your pet” technologies available, including air tags, GPS finders, etc. Amazing advancements in RV climate monitors such as Waggle, or Netco to name a few are also a great addition if you are traveling by RV. In the event you lose your pet make sure you have a current photo with you for lost pet flyers,
If you’re going to be in an area for more than 24 hours, know where the local animal hospital is located. Also know the local threats. For example, there is a toad in Florida called the Cane Bufo Toad. If your pup touches it with its snout, it can be fatal.
Know the local leash laws as well. I recommend to always leash or tether your pup. Using a 25 to 100-foot tether can allow your pet the freedom to run and play, plus gives you the control to reel the pet in if the situation requires. The flight of fight response in your pet can happen with something as quick as a car backfiring, a gunshot or fireworks.
Keep your pets tethered. Pets are curious and can get into trouble quickly. If they see a snake or wild critter they might take off after it.
A two-year-old golden doodle was on a family outing roaming free less than 100-feet from the family in a quiet part of the desert. A military helicopter appeared out of nowhere and startled the pup. He took off, never to be found. Had the pup been tethered they could have quickly reeled him back to safety.
Pet health
It is your responsibility to keep your pet healthy while on the road. Do not change water or food while traveling. It is hard enough to travel as a human. Imagine being a pet who has no idea why or where they are going. Do not add stress to the animal by introducing new food or water. Water changes are hard on tummies. If possible, start the pet on a bottled water that you know you can get while traveling or bring water from home. Dehydrated foods are fantastic to travel with, however switch your pet over a 10 day period and do this a few weeks prior to traveling. Remember to use the water the pet is used to when hydrating the food.
Examine your pet frequently for unusual bites or things like ticks. Use all natural sprays for flea, tick, chigger, mosquito repellent. I like Wondercide or sprays with natural ingredients.
Anxiety, fear and motion sickness are common with pets as they travel. There are many ways to be proactive with your pet. Although traditional medications can be prescribed by your veterinarian, those are hard on the liver and kidneys. Check into all natural things like “Chill Doggies” and CBD for calming. Thunder shirts can also provide comfort for pets during these times.
Keeping your pets happy and comfortable
In an RV lots of good familiar smells are comforting for your pets. If you are staying in a hotel or vacation rental, bring blankets, sheets, pillows not freshly laundered. Your pet’s favorite bed will be a happy reminder of home. Bring pet shampoo as there may be times the pup needs a bath.
Outdoor time is great for both dogs and cats. If you have an X-pen outside make sure you supervise and have a sunshade. If traveling in an RV with your cat, teach your cat to walk on a leash/harness (it takes time and patience). They need fresh air and time out of the RV.
Swiming and pets
No summer vacation is complete without some swim time for the pups. Supervision of your pup is critical, since they can get overtired, overheated, and dehydrated quickly. Over exertion is also common as they too get caught up in the fun and excitement. Use all natural sunscreen made specific to pets and make sure fresh water is available.
Always have a life jacket on your pup, even in shallow water. A leg cramp or event a quick current can prove disastrous. I also suggest if in a lake, river, creek or ocean have a long tether attached to the life jacket.
In pools make sure the pup knows how to exit, and never leave a pup near a pool alone. Chlorine is also harmful if left on the coat, it can dry out the coat and skin. Rinse the pup well after with fresh water.
Ocean water can be fun, but also dangerous. Beware of corral, jelly fish, and sharp items along the shore. Pups can get carried away by an undertow or current. Dog booties are helpful to protect the paws. Life jackets and a tether are a must. Be vigilant and keep an eye on them. When the fun is over, rinse the pup with fresh water as the salt water is harsh on the skin and coat.
Lakes, rivers, streams and creeks can be hazardous as well. If it is an area where fishing is allowed the risk of your pup getting a fish hook caught in their mount or foot increases. Snakes and other wildlife can also pose a serious threat. Even the risk of bacteria, algae bloom and parasites is high. Check local travel blogs and or local veterinarian hospitals before letting your pup in these areas. Rinse the pup with fresh water after lake time and watch for signs of reaction after the fun time in the water. Life jackets and tethers are recommended.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with the family pet can be rewarding and fun if you are prepared. Know the local laws and ordinances. Be a good Stuart of the environment. Carry poop bags and pick up your poop! Even if you are out in a large wooded area, your pets’ feces can be detrimental to even toxic to the indigenous animals.
Now hit the road and take that furry family member.
Be the first to comment