10 Things I Learned RVing Across the Country with a Dog

6. What to Do with Your Pet If  You Want to Visit a “No Pets” Tourist Attraction

Since my RV is my only means of transportation on the road, I can’t leave the van running with Seymour inside the camper in a parking lot while I tour a museum. But, if I plan ahead, I can see if there is a PetsMart or PetCo nearby since they usually have pet daycare.

There are many pet boarding places across the country but I would get a reference before using one. Your pet’s health records will most likely be requested before boarding. It is also important to know that different States have different requirements for when rabies immunizations need to be done. You might live in an area that only requires a rabies update every three years, but you may be taking your pet to a place that requires a yearly update. If it’s been close to a year since their last rabies shot you may want to get another before you go on a long trip.

7. You don’t Always Have to Eat in a Park or Your Camper when You Have a Pet

Most restaurants that have patios allow pets. Some even brought Seymour a bowl of water. When I was walking around new towns, I would sometimes want to go into a fast food restaurant to get a quick meal. I would put Seymour in his purse carrier, zip it up, and go inside. We didn’t have any problems doing that but I never let Seymour out of the carrier; not even his nose was allowed to sniff the air when we were in the restaurant.

Ask around town to see if there are any pet-friendly restaurants. When we were in New Orleans, we found a pet- friendly bar. Seymour sat at the bar with me, while I drank my beverage of choice. The bar staff then told us of a restaurant that allowed pets. We ate on the upstairs balcony and when it started raining, they let us eat inside. I didn’t ask any questions, but was thankful to have a real restaurant experience with my dog.

8. Plan ahead and Be Creative When Grocery Shopping with a Pet

No, I haven’t taken Seymour into any grocery stores. I eat in the RV most of the time so I regularly have to buy groceries. When I need to stop, I try to do it early in the morning before it gets too hot or later in the evening. My RV has a ceiling fan that works off of the battery so it helps to cool it somewhat, but not enough if it is a hot day.

We have stayed in Walmart parking lots overnight – you have to check to be sure they allow it – so late night shopping is pretty convenient.

more>>