Summer is here, which means your sunshine motorhome trip is quickly approaching. Many motorhome owners will pack up and head off on trips to get away from all the hustle and bustle of the summer period.  However what if you want to take your family pet with you? Here are some tips and advice on taking your pet away this summer.

Before you go

Not only is it lovely to be able to take your pet with you on your trips, it can also save you money in the long-run.  You won’t have to put your pet into kennels which can cost a fortune. However, before you set off on your travels you must check that you are allowed pets in the campsite.  It’s also a good idea to acclimatise your pet to your motorhome by letting it have a run around and sniff the place out.  If you are heading out of the UK check out our pet passport post.

Most animals are extremely sensitive to smells so take a blanket or pet bed (matches our ‘grey’ interior!) with you. This will ensure he or she feels at home, especially if you will be leaving them in the motorhome for long periods of time. If this is the case (which is usually not advised) you need to remember to leave a roof or window open to allow fresh air inside the motorhome. Do not leave them open too wide because you may come back to an empty motorhome and no pet! Leave your pet a big bowl of water and make sure it will last them until you get back. If your pet is left in your motorhome for a long period of time it is probably a good to take them for a walk.

Keeping your dog comfortable

If you and your family are lounging around in the motorhome or having a hot cup of coffee sat outside, let the dog join you.  Put a stake in the ground and a long rope to allow your dog to have a run around without having to constantly keep a close eye on them. We also use eyelets and webbing to secure Mac n Tosh.  Its a great way to let your dog enjoy the freedom of outside.

There is no doubt that after this, especially in the winter, your dog will be covered in mud. Take some compact microfibre towels on the trip to give your dog a wipe down. They are easy to clean and dry in minutes..and reduce the ‘smelly dog smell’.  However, if your dogs loves to run and play in mud, you can buy micro fibre dog drying bag (a bit pricy) to make sure mess is really kept to a minimum!

Keeping your dog safe

Some people take a collapsible pet carrier on their journey. It helps to make your pet feel safe while travelling in the motorhome. However, Mac n Tosh were introduced to our motorhome at 12 weeks, so they are very much used Vin our motorhome.

If your dog is able to walk around whilst your motorhome is moving then you may consider safety options.  One for legal reasons and two because they may cause havoc. Pet carriers can be lightweight and convenient for folding up and tucking away. You could also use natural remedies for your pet to keep them calm. For some countries it is law your dog is restrained with harness  or seat belt whilst travelling.

Mac is a fine traveller but Tosh needs time to adjust. You can guarantee our first journey involves several clean up operations! Due to a 50% likelihood of your dog getting travel sickness, take lots of cleaning equipment with you. Have kitchen towels to hand and plenty disinfectant. Don’t forget the little extras like an air freshener and nose pegs.

Pet Accessories

Purchase some non slip water and food bowls for your pet so that you don’t have to worry about them flying around whilst you are travelling. You can also purchase collapsible food and water bowls for when you may be out and about with your dog for long walks

And finally a quote from Milan Kundea “Dogs are our link to paradise. They don’t know evil or jealousy or discontent. To sit with a dog on a hillside on a glorious afternoon is to be back in Eden, where doing nothing was not boring, it was peace.”