For those of you who already own an RV, you know it gives you the best of both worlds – the freedom of the open road while traveling with the comforts of home. RV owners love the ability to explore the world on their own terms and there are far more people jumping on the RV train. Recreational vehicle sales for 2010 are already at $ 559.1 million, a staggering 79% more than last year.

The summer season is the best time to prepare the family for a fun-filled road trip, and of course this includes your dog! Here are some ways to prepare for your pet’s travel adventure to make sure your dog enjoys the trip as much as you do.

Test your pet RV

Even if your dog’s puppy days are long past, it’s important to make sure the motorhome is ready for your pet in order to keep the vehicle in good condition. In the event of an accident (which is possible in a new environment), you may want to wrap the table legs in plastic and have towels, rags, and cleaners on hand to quickly resolve issues. If your dog is normally allowed on furniture, covering the caravan furniture with a slip-resistant cover or cloth can help fight off hair and dirt. A dust remover or portable vacuum is also a great idea to keep up with debris.

Be aware of various items found outdoors and in your dog’s path. Make sure extension cords cannot be chewed and that cleaning supplies and bug repellants are out of reach. Even if your dog doesn’t engage in these behaviors at home, when the dog is first getting used to his motorhome, his behavior can be a bit unpredictable. Before the trip, take your dog inside the motorhome several times to familiarize him with the space so it’s not a complete surprise that he spends an indefinite amount of time here.

Safety restrictions for pet travel

The pet travel tips that apply by car also apply to your RV. While the RV is in motion, it is necessary to restrain your dog to avoid damage during a sudden stop or accident. Some RV users prefer to use a cage or kennel, while others choose to use a pet seat harness. Ultimately, use the method that is most suitable for your dog’s size and comfort level.

It is also imperative to allow time for frequent stops along the way so your dog can stretch his legs, get some exercise, and have a chance to go to the bathroom. If you plan to spend time away from the motorhome, use your judgment to decide whether or not your furry friend should stay. Assess whether your dog can handle the separation for a few hours. A good rule of thumb is that if your dog normally has separation issues, now is not the time to leave him alone in the motorhome.

If you know your little one will be able to manage time alone, make sure the air conditioner is working properly so it can run while you are away. A good option is to buy a small portable air conditioner to act as a backup and keep you cool and comfortable inside.

VR checklist

While enjoying the luxuries of home on the road, there are things you can bring to make your dog feel the same way. Here’s a checklist of items to pack for your dog:

– Bed, blankets and favorite toys

– Treats and foods that your dog is already used to eating.

– Dishes for food and water

– Repellent from fleas and ticks and any necessary medication

– First aid box

– Your pet’s medical records and the vet’s phone number.

– Contact information for local veterinarians at all their destinations in case of emergency.

– Your dog’s leash (bring an extra one just in case)

Fortunately, no matter what city you are in, you will most likely have access to a pet store if you forget something or realize you need something along the way. Still, it’s best to bring what you’re already wearing to give you a sense of normalcy whenever possible.

Pet-friendly camping areas

Half the fun of having an RV is being able to meet up with other RV folks at various pet-friendly campgrounds and RV parks. Once you’ve made a map of where your family will go, research different places where your dog will also be welcome so that he can join in the fun and be close to his family and new friends.

A little pre-planning and packing will go a long way in keeping your dog healthy and happy during your family’s motorhome trips. Before you know it, everyone (including your dog) will refer to the RV as “Motorhome Sweet RV.”