Almost half of all RV vacationers choose to take their pets with them. After all, the dog's part of the family, and you don't want to kennel him and leave him behind. RVing with the family dog is wonderful, but there are some things you should consider before you hit the road.
Before You Leave
First off, get your pet used to car rides, if he isn't already. Take him on some short drives around town, and then go for longer and longer drives. Make sure he's comfortable in the moving car, and get him used to the routine of getting into and out of the car. You should always leash him before you open the door, so he won't run out of the car.
Also, get him used to the inside of the motor home. If it's not convenient to take the RV out for a spin, just open it up so he can go inside and get acquainted with it. When you actually hit the road, bring along some of his favorite chew toys and items from the house, like old shirts or other toys he's fond of. This will make him more comfortable and less likely to get nervous when you're far from home. Of course, this also includes bringing along his favorite treats!
Before you set off on your trip, get him checked out by the vet. Make sure he's in good health and there is a low risk of anything happening. Bring along his medical records and the number of your vet in case there is an emergency. It's also a good idea to scout out a vet anywhere you will be staying for an extended time. You can use the Internet to find vets in nearby towns in case there is an emergency.
Another thing to consider is whether you will let your dog roam freely in the RV, or keep him in one specific area. There are advantages and disadvantages to both. He'll get restless on the road, and letting him walk around in the motor home will help keep from having to make too many stops along the way. On the other hand, there is the safety to consider. If there is a crash or sudden stop, he will be in danger. You can always use a carrier or dog seat belt to keep him in his seat.
You also have to think about keeping the RV clean. The more places you allow him to go, the more hair and potential messes you'll have. If you are going to use a gate to confine him to a portion of the RV, it is best to make it an uncarpeted area. That will make clean up much easier. Even pets trained to go outside will have little accidents when spending long periods of time on the road.
On The Road
With your furry friend aboard, you'll have to make more pit stops. He'll need to relieve himself, stretch his legs and drink plenty of water. It is recommended that you make a stop every 3 hours or so. Make sure that you leash him before the door opens, or you may find yourself chasing him all over the rest stop.
You'll have to make sure dogs are okay at the campsite. Most campsites have a limit to the number of animals, and it can be as low as one. If you have three or more, it might be tough to find a place to camp out.
Be sure to follow the campsite's rules. These can be pretty strict, and they are different from one campground to the next. It will usually involve bringing disposal bags, making sure he is leashed, and checking to see whether dogs are allowed in certain areas. Remember that these restrictions are mostly for your pet's safety, to protect him from larger animals that might consider him a tasty snack.
Bring several leashes. A great alternative to leashing your dog at a campsite is a portable outdoor exercise pen. This is a pen that you set up each place you go that allows your dog freedom of movement, without the risk of him wandering off to places he shouldn't go.
Once you've got everything covered, traveling the country with your four-legged friend can be a great experience. It's a shame to leave him at home when you travel. Why not share the experience of the road with your canine companion?
You can see a picture of the canyon and get an idea of how beautiful it is, but it is nothing like actually sitting on the canyon's edge and looking down.
The Grand Canyon is inspirational. When you look into its depths, the walls of rock chiseled over thousands of years lead you to contemplate how vast nature is. It is truly awe-inspiring.
You can watch the shadows creep along the buttes as the sun moves across the sky. It is a natural light show with changing colors.
The Grand Canyon has a south rim and a north rim. These two areas of the park are very different.
The south rim has more to do. There are lots of overlooks, hiking trails, museums, information centers, and lodging.
The north rim is somewhat more desolate, cooler and at a greater elevation.
Because the south rim is so popular, it is often crowded. During the summer months, you'll see tourists climbing over each other to get a look at the breathtaking view. If you want to avoid crowds, it's best to go during the off-season, in the winter or fall. Many prefer the north rim, where there are fewer people and you can enjoy the peace and quiet.
The most popular activity on this kind of trip is backcountry hiking. While you're hiking, you will see rock formations and views few have seen before. Hikes range from day trips to overnight backpacking adventures. Hiking here is very strenuous so be prepared.
It can also be dangerous. There are temperature extremes similar to the desert: very hot during the daytime and very cold at night. This is desert hiking at its most extreme; bring plenty of water and food. You also have to know when to take a rest. Before setting off on a backcountry hike, make sure that you are fully prepared, and it can be a wonderful adventure.
Getting a spot at one of the popular campsites during the summer tourist season can be a challenge. Wherever you plan to stay, you should make reservations in advance if possible. If space is important, you might try sites a little ways away from the bustle.
North Rim Campground
At the North Rim Campground, you can be right on the north rim, just minutes away from some wonderful hiking. The North Rim Campground has no hookups and very limited services. However, this site is as close as you're going to get.
The North Rim Campground fills up quickly because of its prime location, so it's a good idea to book your stay well in advance. They take reservations as early as five months ahead.
Demotte Campground
For a little more luxury, try the Demotte Campground, about 15 miles from the north rim. They allow small RVs, but there are no hookups. There is a convenience store, restaurant and flushing toilets. You can also be close to hiking trails and horseback riding activities.
The Demotte Campground doesn't take reservations, and it fills up fast. It can be a gamble. But, it's well worth it because the high elevation of the campground ensures that you'll have nice cool sleeping weather.
Desert View Campground
Desert View is located on the south rim, and named after one of the south rim's most famous lookout points. It's 25 miles from the canyon, and operates from May until October. There are no hookups for your motor home, but the low nightly charge and proximity to the canyon make it well worth it. They don't take reservations.
The Grand Canyon KOA
If you want to spoil yourself a little, why not try the Grand Canyon KOA? It's actually a ways away, just north of Williams, Arizona. But it is a comfortable and not that far away, and features fun amenities like barbecues and an indoor pool.
The Grand Canyon is truly one of the wonders of the world, and it makes for a great motor home holiday.
Andrew Stratton has sinced written about articles on various topics from Motorola Cell Phone, Tummy Tucks Before and After and Political and Social. Taking an RV road trip can be fun for people and pets alike. Before you pack your furry friend into the , though, you should prepare the animal and yours. Andrew Stratton's top article generates over 246000 views. to your Favourites.