Tag: pets

You can enjoy many of the same comforts of home while living in your RV, including bringing your pet along for the ride in your vehicle! As an RVer and pet owner, you should make sure that travel with your companion animal won’t cause them anxiety in your vehicle and, if they’re in a crate or cage, make sure they’re secure as you move down the road. RV Trader is sharing five of the best low-maintenance pets that can join you on an open-road adventure! 

Quick Tips for Safe Travel with Your Pet

The main safety concern for RVing with pets is the bumps and jostling that happens while driving, so you need to make sure everything is secure before you hit the road. This also means making adjustments to your driving, ensuring you’re taking corners slowly, following the speed limit, driving slowly over speedbumps, and avoiding potholes. 

If you’re traveling with a pet that has a tank, aquarium, cage, or crate, use straps or bungee cords to secure the habitat to a wall or other large stationary object before driving. Or, for a more permanent solution, secure it to the surface it sits on using putty, which grips both the tank and the surface and keeps the tank from sliding around. Objects inside a tank or aquarium need to be secured as well so they don’t spill or tip over; fasten food bowls, water bottles, wheels/toys, and other items with clips, cords, suction cups, or non-toxic adhesives.

5 of the Best Low-Maintenance Pets That Can RV

1. Asian Painted Bullfrog

The Asian painted bullfrog, or chubby frog, is one the best pet frogs for beginners, and is hardy, friendly, and cute. Because they’re only 7–8 cm long, two adults can live happily in a 15–gallon tank, so it’s not difficult to bring them along in your RV. These frogs are crepuscular, which means they become active in the evenings, eating the live insects you feed them and burrowing in their loose substrate. Following the aforementioned advice for safety, make sure this critter’s habitat is secure when on the move with your RV.

2. Leopard Gecko

Leopard geckos are one of the most popular pet reptiles of any kind, largely because they are so easy to care for, along with being very cute. While a 20–gallon tank is probably preferable, a single small leopard gecko can be perfectly happy and healthy in a 10–gallon tank while joining for your adventure, even if you’re traveling in a small RV. Whatever size you choose, your tank should have a warm side—between 80–90 degrees Fahrenheit—and a cool side, between 75–80 degrees. Make sure their tank has a thermometer gauge you can easily read to maintain the right temperature for your pet while bringing them along in your RV.

3. Hamster

For people who want the convenience of RVing with an animal in a tank or enclosure and the cuddle factor of a warm, fuzzy mammal, hamsters are a great choice! Unlike many rodent pets, they don’t need a companion in their habitat, and can be housed alone in a 15–20-gallon tank or cage. So whether you’re driving a Sprinter van camper, or a larger RV class, your hamster’s home won’t take too much room. When your vehicle is stationary, put a hamster wheel in their tank or cage so they can exercise and work out their energy. You can also install tubing so you can watch them freely scamper around, or give them a hamster ball so they can safely move around a designated area in your stationary vehicle under your supervision.

4. Pygmy Chameleon

Pygmy chameleons have two major advantages over other reptiles when it comes to keeping them in your RV. They can thrive in a small tank and they don’t require a temperature gradient or UVB lighting. Pygmy chameleons are, as their name suggests, small—most are only slightly larger than a fingernail. Because of this, these East African lizards can live their whole lives in a 10– or even 5–gallon tank. In an RV, where space is at a premium, this is obviously ideal. As an added bonus, pygmy chameleons are remarkably versatile and hardy little creatures that are content with a single-temperature tank anywhere between 70–80 degrees Fahrenheit. They can also handle a wide range of humidity, between 60–80%, and don’t require UVB lighting. All of this makes them a great choice for the RVer that doesn’t want to fiddle with the temperature inside their RV living space.

5. Cat

Yes, you can RV with a cat! In some ways, cats are even lower maintenance than the other animals listed here, as you don’t have to worry about securing a tank or cage for them, or maintaining a higher temperature in their habitat. Of course, cats have their own list of needs, like finding a way to secure their litter box and at least partially contain the smell. The key is to get a litter box with a lid, and also to rely on odor-control methods that eliminate scents with pet-friendly products. Some cats are also notorious for motion sickness and hating car rides, so it’s best to take a few short trips with your cat to see how they handle the open road before you commit them to life on the highway. In fact, that’s a good policy to follow for any pet you might want to keep in an RV. 

Bringing a pet along for your next adventure in your vehicle is one more thing to love about RVing. Before you hit the road, know tips and tricks for traveling with pets and take into consideration your pet’s various needs to ensure they’re safe and healthy. If you’re ready to find your next new or used vehicle, be sure to see all the nationwide listings on RVTrader.com.

By Nigel Robert

RVing with an aquarium may seem like a good idea, given that fish are already contained in an aquarium, unlike more active pets like cats or dogs. However, even the hardy fish recommended for beginners can struggle in the constantly changing environment of the road. This does not mean that keeping fish in an RV is impossible, though. It can be done, if a few factors are carefully considered and managed. Here are five things to know about RVing with an aquarium.

1. Road vibrations can be deadly to fish

Road vibrations are something humans rarely notice unless driving on a particularly bumpy or poorly maintained stretch of road, but the situation for fish is different. All those vibrations are multiplied as they travel through the water in a fish tank. That makes them much more noticeable for the fish than they are for you. Unless you can very securely pad your RV against vibration and anchor your fish tank, the stress from all of this vibration could quite literally kill your fish.

2. RVs are subject to temperature fluctuations

Typically, RVs are not as well-insulated as regular houses, and big temperature variations are not great for aquarium fish. Many fish, especially tropical ones, can only tolerate a narrow range of temperatures before they overheat or freeze to death. Tanks can (and should) be climate controlled, but even that can only do so much against a climate that might present 90-degree days or subzero temperatures, depending on when and where you’re traveling in your RV. However, if you have the right kind of power available, this problem can be circumvented by careful monitoring and the near-constant use of a water heater.

3. An RV’s motion can cause a lot of water movement

Some fish, especially river dwellers, are adapted to moving water, but the steady flow of a river is not the kind of water motion a trip in an RV will generate. Instead, the stopping, starting, and turning of a road trip will disorient and, for lack of a better word, “slosh” your fish around in their tank in a way that will be highly stressful, if not immediately injurious. Here again, sturdy anchorage and good shocks will help reduce this movement. However, unless you plan on parking your RV in a trailer park and staying put, this is going to be a constant concern. Make sure to pick fish that can thrive with a lid on their tank.

4. Some fish tolerate travel better than others

Tropical saltwater fish, which are famously delicate, would obviously be a terrible choice for an RVing aquarist, but even some hardier freshwater fish will have a hard time with all of these stressors. Fish like the Zebra Danio are more able to withstand temperature fluctuations, while guppies and gourami fish are renowned for their hardiness and cichlids are regarded for their adaptability. These robust qualities likely make them better choices for RV living than some of their more delicate cousins.

5. A tank accident in an RV is a big deal

A shattered fish tank, especially a large one, can be upsetting or stressful in a traditional home. In a particularly bad accident, it might damage electronics, a rug, or even the flooring. In an RV, however, even a much smaller accident can have even worse consequences, due to the simple fact that the floor of an RV is full of important, non-water-resistant things like electrical wiring. Plus, the materials an RV floor is made from are even more susceptible to rot, warp, and water damage than traditional hardwood or carpeted house floors. If aquarium water gets inside your RV walls, it can also cause mold and mildew to grow there, which will weaken the integrity of the walls and also can become a health hazard if not quickly dealt with.

Final Thoughts

All of this may sound scary, but it does not mean that keeping an aquarium in an RV is impossible. It is good to be wary, though, because prospective RV fish owners should take a close look at all of the risks and rewards of keeping an aquarium with them on their adventures. This will hopefully encourage RVers to plan carefully and take all the necessary precautions to make sure their fish stay happy and healthy and enjoy a long life on the open road. 

David Thomas is the Founder of Everything Fishkeeping, your number one resource for fishkeeping, aquascaping, and aquariums.

You love your pet and want to bring them everywhere with you, including on the road in your RV. But before you head out onto the open road in your travel trailer or other RV, you’ll need to anticipate how your four-legged friend will react to spending time in a camper, especially if they’ve never done it before. Though you love RVing, there’s a chance that being in a new environment will stress out your pet. Prepare yourself and your furry co-pilots for life on the road with RV Trader’s eight tips for dealing with pet anxiety while RVing.

1. Know the Signs of Pet Anxiety

The first step to managing your pet’s anxiety is to be able to identify the symptoms. Here are a few signs to look for:

• Whining, howling, or excessive barking in dogs
• Bathroom accidents
• Pacing
• Restlessness
• Trying to escape or digging around doors
• Holding their tails close to their bodies
• Unusual aggression and/or destructive behavior

There are two types of anxiety: persistent and situational. Persistent anxiety is when your pet has a natural tendency to experience stress, which can require regular treatment. An example of this is separation anxiety, where your pet always feels stress when alone, no matter the specific situation. If your pet experiences separation anxiety, or any other persistent anxiety, we recommend not leaving them alone in your camper. Try to keep them with you at all times, or have someone remain in the RV with your pet if you need to leave and cannot take them with you.

On the other hand, situational anxiety is when stress is caused by specific events and activities. Your pet may not usually have anxiety, but the strange experience of being in an unfamiliar vehicle that rumbles down the road and stops in unknown territory could trigger a typically calm pet to feel stress. If your furry friend has never been camping or in an RV before, keep a watchful eye on how they respond to each of the new things they encounter to see how they respond. If possible, slowly introduce them to these new stimuli. For example, let your pet explore your RV ahead of time in the days leading up to your trip.

2. Take a Test Ride

If your pet is new to RVing, let them spend short periods of time on the road before you set off on your adventure. Get your furry friend comfortable with the sights, sounds, smells, and movement of the camper. Take test rides around the neighborhood or to your pet’s favorite places, like the park.

If your pet shows signs of stress or anxiety when in the RV, pull over and calm them down by slowly petting them. These test rides can be a great way to gauge how relaxed your pet will be when you’re on the road for days at a time.

3. Pack Their Favorites

If your pet is anxious on the road, it’s important to make them feel safe and comfortable in your RV. Start by packing some items from home that will feel familiar to them even in new surroundings. Bring their crate, dog bed, and any bedding that smells like home. Reward your pet, especially if they’ve been well behaved after long drives, with their favorite treats to encourage continued good behavior. Pack their favorite toys to play with at RV parks, campsites, or at rest stops.

4. Give Your Pet a Place to Ride

Determine where your pet will sit or lay while you are driving. Giving them a safe and stable place to ride will help with their anxiety and prevent them from sliding around while the RV is in motion. If your pet is crate trained, anchor it to the RV to prevent the crate from sliding around when you drive. If your furry friend requires constant physical touch and petting, adjustable harnesses can keep them closer to you. These strap into an RV’s seat belts so your pet can sit up or lay down comfortably. If you have a smaller furry companion, a pet car seat keeps them contained while giving them a view out the RV’s windows.

5. Create a Routine

If your pet is new to RVing, it’s important to create a routine for them. This routine should incorporate their regular at-home activities, as well as things for them to do on the road. Set designated times to get off the road and let your pet use the bathroom or go for a walk. Be sure to keep them on their regular feeding schedule, and always make sure they have access to plenty of water. While RVing offers a sense of adventure and spontaneity for humans, pets benefit from more structure and consistency. 

6. Make Stops on the Road

It can be challenging to find pet-friendly places to go and things to do, but your furry friend will thank you. Make stops on the road that give your pet a much-needed bathroom break and let them stretch their legs and explore. New surroundings can be incredibly exciting, but keep an eye on your pet to see how they’re handling everything. Loud noises and large crowds at rest stops can stress out your pet. Be sure to keep them leashed and close by whenever they’re out of the RV.

7. Keep Pets Calm When They’re Alone

Unfortunately, your pet won’t be able to accompany you to every pitstop you make on the road. If you do have to leave them alone in the RV, make your trips quick and keep the RV cool with a temperature-control system. It can also help to play relaxing music, or a movie or TV show, so your pet has background noise to distract them. As we said before, we strongly discourage leaving pets with separation anxiety alone in the RV.

8. Get Some Extra Help

Even after following all of these tips, you still might not be able to manage your pet’s anxiety. Fortunately, there are products that can give you some extra help when it comes to keeping your pet relaxed. You can purchase over-the-counter calming supplements online or in a store. If your furry friend has persistent anxiety, it’s best to give them a supplement every day. For situational anxiety, a calming supplement can be a last resort if none of the other soothing methods work. While many of these don’t require a prescription, you should speak with your veterinarian  as a precaution before you give your pet these supplements.

There are also wearable methods of reducing pet anxiety. Anti-anxiety jackets, including the ThunderShirt and The Anxiety Wrap, create a hug-like feeling that comforts your pet and can decrease persistent anxiety.

RVing can be an exciting adventure for your pet. By following these tips before you leave and on the road, you can help your pet deal with their anxiety as they show symptoms and teach them to cope with life on the road. Prioritizing your anxious pet’s needs can lead to new experiences and miles of fun in your RV with your cuddly companion.

For more tips on RVing with pets, including articles, videos, and more, check out RV Trader’s Pet Resource Page. And, if you’re searching for your next RV to make your pet feel right at home, such as a cozy and fuel efficient Class B, browse the new and used models on RVTrader.com.

You already love traveling in your RV. The only thing that could make it better is if your furry friend could hit the road with you. Bringing your pet on an RV getaway sounds like a lot of fun, but there are some steps to take if you want to make the experience safe and enjoyable for your animal. If you plan on traveling with your four-legged friend, RV Trader has seven tips for making your RV pet friendly.

1. Get Your Pet Acquainted with the RV

Before you set out on your travels, let your pet get comfortable with the smells and surroundings of your RV. Pay attention to your pet’s behavior as they explore the camper, and even take them on a short drive. If your pet starts showing signs of stress or anxiety, such as whining, pacing, or shaking, calm them down by pulling over and slowly petting them. Let your furry companion know that the RV is their home too, and help them adapt to the unfamiliar environment. Once they start to relax, feed them a treat so they associate being in the RV with receiving a reward.

Check out our other article for more tips on dealing with pet anxiety during RV travel.

2. Create a Space for Your Pet

If your pet is crate trained, bring a collapsible crate so they have a safe and cozy place to sleep at night and relax during the day. Furnish their crate with a bed, as well as a blanket, favorite toy, or other item from home to help make your pet’s environment more familiar. Since wire crates are open on all sides, your pet will get better airflow compared to a plastic crate.

If you have an indoor cat who’s used to going in a litter box, keep one in your RV in a spot that’s out of the way. Empty storage areas, such as under shelves or in a closet, are good places to hide a litter box in your rig.

Bring a portable fence or pen to set up at campsites and RV parks so your pet has some room to roam at outdoor destinations. Collapsible pens adhere to the leash and containment rules that many RV parks and campgrounds enforce. These can also be easily stowed while you’re driving without taking up too much space.

3. Give Your Pet Easy Access In and Out of the RV

The fold-down steps in an RV are typically made with aluminum, or they’re coated with anti-skid tape so you can safely get in and out of your unit. These surfaces make it a little harder for dogs and cats to use. Consider putting down some carpet pieces or stair treads to give your pet more traction when they use the stairs. Some brands are made for indoor and outdoor use, so you won’t need to worry about the pieces developing mold and mildew. Or, if your pet has mobility issues, purchase a collapsible ramp to give them an assist.

4. Secure Your Pet When Moving

While your RV may feel like a living room on wheels to you, it’s still an unsteady environment for your pet. If your animal is having a hard time getting situated when you’re in motion, use one of these methods to safely secure them:

• There are adjustable harnesses that snap into your RV’s existing seat belts so your dog can sit up or lay down on the seat.
• If you packed a crate, you can anchor it or position it from sliding around as you drive, keeping your pet safe from any items that may fall as you navigate the roads.
• You can also get a pet car seat for small animals that not only keep them secure, but elevate them enough so they can look out the window. 

5. Give Your Pet a View

One of the best parts of traveling by RV is getting to see all of the sights along the way. Give your pet the same opportunity by installing adjustable window shades or blinds in your unit. You’ll be able to raise the shades or blinds so your pet can easily see the view, then lower them when the sun gets too hot. A pet carrier placed near a window is also an ideal spot for your cat to hang out.

6. Monitor Your RV’s Temperature

One of the biggest dangers to the safety of pets traveling in an RV is overheating due to high temperatures. Always keep your camper at a cool enough temperature for your animal to be comfortable. Consider using a monitor that notifies you when there are changes in the temperature, humidity, and even loss of power to your unit, if you have to leave your pet alone. These high-tech monitors can operate over Wi-Fi or your phone’s cellular network.

If your RV does get too hot, or you notice your pet excessively panting, keep a cooling mat in your unit. You can place these in your pet’s crate, on their bed, or on the floor where they lay to provide a cooling effect.

7. Don’t Leave Your Pet Alone for Too Long

When you stop at different destinations, you sadly won’t be able to bring your pet inside certain places. While you can keep them in your RV, as long as the inside temperature is being monitored, you never want to leave your pet alone for too long. When left unaccompanied, your animal could become very mischievous and start snooping around the RV where they shouldn’t be. Some dogs can get very vocal, disturbing the people around you, especially at campsites and RV parks. If you do have to leave your pet alone, take them for a walk beforehand, give them plenty of water, and consider installing a Wi-Fi-enabled camera. These cameras can help you keep an eye on your pet and even toss them a treat with the push of a button from your smartphone.

If you’re traveling in a tow-behind camper, don’t ride with your pet unattended in the unit. Bumpy rides can lead to a stressed-out pet, and if you can’t be there to comfort them, it’s best to let them ride in the tow vehicle with you. 

If you’ve never traveled with your pet before, these tips can make their experience in the RV safe and fun. Giving them time to adapt, creating a space for them, and taking safety precautions can help make every RV adventure with your furry friend a memorable one.

For more tips on RVing with pets, including articles, videos, and more, check out RV Trader’s Pet Resource Page. And, if you’re searching for your next RV, browse the new and used models, for sale and for rent, on RVTrader.com.