Ready for the picnic!
One thing to keep in mind ⎯ on the road and once we get to where we’re going ⎯ is staying healthy. We want to be healthy in what we eat and what we do, so the same thing goes for our pets. Food, water and exercise are as important to the fur kids as they are to us and some of these we can do together.
Food. OK, no table food for the pets, at least that’s the rule we try to follow, but my little guy gets a few licks. He sees it as an appetizer before he will eat his food. Be sure to bring enough of your pet’s normal diet with you; some brands may not be available in different places.
Always keep a back-up supply of bottled water.
Water. Really, any water you would drink the pets can drink, but if it tastes funny to you, it may to the pet as well. It’s not a bad idea to carry some bottled water for all.
Exercise. Most campgrounds that allow pets will have exercise areas, or at least walking areas, for dogs. Ask about this when you check in; also ask about local dog parks! Many communities have ‘doggie parks’ where your friend can really get in a good run. If you are staying at Lazydays RV Campground, there is a nice dog park only two miles away! Don’t forget, when you are walking your pet, you’re getting exercise, too.
Health Papers. We carry a plastic folio that contains our pet’s health information: shot records, vet visit information, health insurance card, etc. If you need to get your pet groomed while on the road, many grooming facilities will require proof of shots before providing services. Be ready!
Health Insurance. Did you know that pets can get health care coverage? We use www.petshealthplan.com for our dog. It is not expensive and it will cover many emergencies. Veterinarians, in our experience, will require payment at time of service, but just submit the paperwork and you will get some reimbursement shortly. A Google search will reveal this and many others; research the plans. The rates vary with breed and age of the pet.
Exercise is important for keeping your pet happy and healthy on the road.
How About a Vet? Where do you find a vet while on the road? Try searching websites. Both www.scoopaway.com and www.vetsnearyou.com might help. Using a city name or zip code, these websites will help you find a vet. Or try www.yp.com, the online Yellow Pages. One of the best ways of course is through referrals, ask at the desk of the campground, at the local pet store, or talk to patrons at the pet store. In case of emergency, however, a quick online search is likely the best bet.
Above all, travel with pets can be very rewarding. They are a source of comfort for you, and you to them. Ever travel with a pet and be subjected to motels that accept pets? Yeah, me too. That’s one of the many reasons we have embraced our RV lifestyle.
Happy and safe travels, Bill Whetstone and his buddy Koda
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