How to take your pet caravanning

Many people buy a caravan or motorhome because of the opportunity it gives them to take their pets away on holiday. You’ll see dogs, cats and, if the Government website is to be believed, ferrets happily touring with their owners, in the UK and further afield.

If you’re considering this lifestyle for your pets and family, it’s worth doing some research and planning first. Here are a few questions pet owners often ask…

Will my pet like the caravan or motorhome?

They probably won’t express any strong opinions about your choice of rear lounge or fixed bed, but they will have to adapt to a lot of new sights, sounds and smells in the van.

One good indicator of how well they’ll cope is how happy they are in the car. If yours is the dog with his head cheerfully out the window, winking at passers-by, the omens are good, but many pets will need some acclimatisation to a van.

In his online article for Practical Motorhome, Geoff Crowther suggests that if you’re new to the market, rent a van first. There are plenty of pet-friendly companies that will hire you a caravan or motorhome. Try a short trip with your pet and see how they get on.

Animals can take a while to adapt, so take things slowly. Maybe let them explore the habitation area at home, parked and with the engine off. Give them plenty of time and reassurance. Then maybe start the engine and if all’s well go for a short drive.

If your pet has a bed at home it’s a great idea to place it in the van so they have somewhere familiar to relax. Need an upgrade? We proudly present the super-soft PRIMA Dog Bed.

Taking your pet touring in your caravan or motorhome

Rules and routine will help make life on the road with your pet hassle-free. From the start, let them know where they can and can’t go. Make it clear what’s expected when you’re driving. Most dogs will learn the ropes and who knows, the cat might meet you halfway?

It’s important to restrain your pet when travelling and there are various harnesses or ‘pet seatbelts’ on the market. If your animal’s a nervous traveler they may well like the comfort and security of a pet carrier (see our popular and very comfortable PRIMA pet carrier, which has removable mesh sides). If they're travelling in the boot, a non-spill water bowl will keep your dog hydrated without the mess.

Plan your journey so you can stop every hour or so for your pet to get some exercise - and keep to the same feeding times you would at home. If you’re travelling overseas, Rover may well take to the local cuisine, but bring some tins of their favourite chow as back-up.

Incidentally, we’ve some great extendable lead and pet waste bag sets available and a handy waterproof double-seat protector if it’s raining when you stop.

Cats will of course throw your best intentions right back in your face (or are we just being catist here?). Keep a litter tray deployed for them to register their disgust and be sure to pack litter that has odour-eating properties!

Camping with your dog or cat

Rule One is always make sure your campsite welcomes pets, check any conditions such as additional charges or ‘only one pet per pitch’, and confirm you’ll be bringing your animal when you book.

We’ve recently launched our new range of inflatable porches and awnings. These lightweight, easy-to-pitch additions provide useful space to house snoozing cats or deal with muddy dogs, and the veranda-style barn door window option means you can ventilate whilst keeping your pooch in an enclosed space. 

Additionally, be a good neighbour. Will the dog bark or howl all the while you’re away? This will very quickly earn you a warning from the campsite operator and a frosty reception around the site.

Finally, camping with a pet creates some additional housework. Vacuum up pet hairs, dog biscuits and dust regularly and be mindful that pet food left out might attract unwanted visitors, especially in warmer climates.

When you pitch, give your animal their own space - and make sure there’s adequate shade, ventilation and access to water. Most sites will require you to tether your animal, so think about how, and with what, you’ll tether your pet well in advance. A sturdy ground anchor or stake will ensure your dog won't get off the leash, and is quick and easy to store and install on any soft ground.

Touring overseas with your dog, cat (or ferret)

Many thousands of people travel abroad with their pets each year and there’s very little hassle, provided you follow the travel rules carefully.

These vary according to country but are relatively uniform across the EU. Check the Government website well in advance and stay up-to-date with any restrictions or requirements that arise.

Your basic checklist should include rabies vaccinations, micro-chipping, pet passport and any other documentary requirements. Also, at time of writing, you must have your dog treated for tapeworm infestation before returning to the UK.

For sea or air travel your pet must use an officially sanctioned commercial carrier on designated routes. Operators may have their own requirements (a vet’s health declaration for example), so check with them when you book.

Pet-friendly ferry companies

Most major ferry companies are signed up to the DEFRA Pet Travel Scheme (PETS). They will check you have complied with all regulations before you board, so you can travel knowing that your pet won’t face quarantine on return.

Travel facilities for your pet will depend on carrier, route and vessel. Some vessels have pet friendly cabins for one pet, while others have kennels on-board. On shorter sailings, you can often leave your pet in your vehicle.

When you book, check for any special requirements, such as the need to muzzle your dog before he or she embarks.

Keeping your dog entertained

In transit you could try a spot of I-Spy or a game of cards, but for dogs the entertainment programme will really come into its own on arrival. We’ve introduced some items into the store to help pets (and their owners) get some exercise. Dog Ball Launchers are perennial favourites, or have you considered a Frisbee and Tennis Ball Combo?

We hope you and your pets have a great trip.