A Motorhomer's Best Friend

There is no doubt that pets can be our closest companions, and it doesn’t take long before they feel like another member of the family. Although travelling is a wonderful pastime, it is always difficult to leave pets behind. It is for this reason that many motorhomers choose to have their pets accompany them on their journeys around the country, and because we operate self-contained vehicles, this is often a highly achievable and desirable option. However we need to consider that while we adore our beloved animals, not everyone feels the same way, and we must adopt appropriate etiquette at all times whilst travelling with our pets.

Taking pets travelling is a growing trend, and in response, a lot of destinations have altered their policies to welcome family pets. An increasing number of campgrounds and caravan parks allow mobile travellers to stay with pets, but many still do not, so it is a good idea to research this before departing.

Accommodation websites and travel books, such as CMCA’s The Wanderers Mate or GeoWiki database, are a good place to start. There are often conditions associated with pet-friendly destinations, including the type of animals allowed and the time of year permitted, and these vary between individual sites. So if you aren’t sure, you should always contact individual destinations to enquire about their policies.

Although acceptance of pets is expanding, it is important to respect the rules of your travelling destination in regards to pets. It is a privilege to take your furry companion with you on holiday, so you must remain considerate of those areas that don’t allow pets, such as National Parks. Again, if you are unsure you should contact the relevant governing body.

When travelling with your pets, there are a number of important points to remember:

• Ensure your pet is wearing a collar at all times, as well as an identification tag with your name and phone number.

• Be considerate of the environment and fellow travellers by picking up and disposing of any dog droppings and ensuring your pets don’t annoy other campers.

• Keep a leash handy and secure it to your dog or cat's collar or harness before you let them out of the car.

• Don’t allow your pets to attack other pets, people or wildlife, destroy the natural surroundings or defecate in water supplies.

It is also important to make sure your pet is safe while travelling.

• Fresh air is important for your pet, so if possible, have a window open while driving.

• Remember animals can get car sick too, so if your animal is prone to this, consult your vet about preventative measures.

• It is also a good idea to consider taking your pet to the vet before departing, as the vet can check your animal’s health and ensure they are fully vaccinated.

• Never leave your pet alone in the car for long periods, particularly during the summer months.

• When driving, it is a good idea to restrain your pet in case of an accident. Use a harness for dogs or a carrier for cats. It is also good habit to stop regularly and allow your pet to stretch its legs.

• If possible, arrive at new destinations in daylight, as this allows your pet a chance to familiarise itself with the surroundings.

While this may all seem like common sense, unfortunately, not all travellers practice these basic principles.

Pets are wonderful companions, and the motorhoming lifestyle offers an opportunity for pets to experience holidays with the rest of the family. However all travellers must control their pets, consider the natural environment and do what they can to ensure the minimum amount of stress to other travellers and the pets themselves, otherwise we risk sites withdrawing their support for our furry friends.
Have a barking good time on your travels!!

The CMCA Team