Do you have a dog and want to travel with him in your van? Don’t be overwhelmed, it is possible, but first you must take into account a series of details that you may not have realized.
Therefore, I recommend that you take note of the following tips. Because traveling with your dog in a camper will make your experience much more complete and attractive for you and the rest of your family members. And in Camporan
What are the important points to know when traveling with your dog in a van?
Before taking the plunge, it is advisable to train your pet to long journeys. It is important that the animal is also comfortable, so it is best that it adapts and that initially the trips are not very extensive. You must train him little by little, and see if he will be able to adapt to this new reality in his life.
Likewise, it is a good idea to find out beforehand if the places you plan to travel to with your van accept dogs in certain places and what the regulations are in this regard. All this can help you avoid misunderstandings or unexpected surprises.
Another fundamental point that you should take into account is the possibility of contracting a travel insurance that includes your pet in case of any mishap that may occur during your trip.
Identifying the dog with a tag with all the necessary data is also a good idea for this type of trip.
How should my dog go in the van?
This is a key issue, because just as you have adapted your vehicle so that you and your companions travel in comfort, you must do the same with your dog. In other words, what is crucial is that you are comfortable, because otherwise you will probably not want to repeat the trip in the van.
Ideally, it should ideally be able to ride in the back of the camper during journeys, but arranged safely and in such a way that it can lie down and rest. In fact, according to the regulations, the animal cannot interfere with driving, so you will have to use a safety harness or, if necessary, a carrier or cage.
Once this first phase is over, you have to see the place where the dog is going to sleep. An alternative is to do it under the bed base where you and the rest of your companions sleep. In this case, it will need to be somewhat higher than normal, so you will have to make an adaptation.
What accessories should I bring for my dog?
Once these first caveats are overcome, you have to think about everything that traveling with a dog implies. For example, it would be convenient to cover the front seats with waterproof covers. This not only protects the upholstery, but also prevents it from getting muddy on rainy days.
You have to think about where you are going to transport their food. A good alternative is to carry the feed in an airtight container. This saves you from having to resort to the feed sack every now and then.
It is good that you buy an anti-parasite collar, especially because he will be in contact with nature for many days.
It is recommended that you get an extendable leash so that when you go hiking you can take him with you safely and make him feel freer when walking.
If you intend to go on long walks, it is a good idea to take some wax or petroleum jelly with you to smear it on the paws so that they do not chafe. It will also protect you from the snow. In general, it is recommended that you get a good first aid kit for your dog. Gauze, betadine, saline solution, thermometer… should not be missing.
At the same time, you have to take into account the weather during the trip and in the destinations you are going to. In summer, shade is always our best ally. If you have to be away for a short period of time, and the pet stays inside the camper, it must be well ventilated and in a cool place. And if it gets chilly at night, it’s a good idea to include a blanket in your luggage to tuck him in.
Finally, you can buy an adapted dog bed for him to lie on when he needs it. And, of course, bring everything you need so you can eat and drink as if you were at home.