Trips just aren’t the same without your four-legged friends. And we know that most people enjoy RVing because they get to bring their furry friends along. At Florida Caverns RV Resort, we believe your dog should be part of the adventure. With a fenced-in dog park and plenty of open green space, there’s room for everyone to stretch out and enjoy the scenic outdoors in Marianna, Florida.
If you’re planning a trip with your pup, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are 9 tips for RVing with your dog to help make your trip easy, safe, and stress-free.
1. Bring Their Favorite Bed
Dogs are creatures of habit. Bringing their favorite bed or blanket from home gives them a familiar smell to relax with after a long travel day.
2. Keep Them Crated on the Road
There aren’t seatbelts for pets in RVs, so the safest option is keeping them in a crate or carrier while you’re driving. It protects them if you have to stop suddenly. Make sure to stop every few hours so they can stretch their legs, get some water, and take a bathroom break.
3. Pack Their Regular Food & Water
Switching food or even water can upset a dog’s stomach. Bring enough of their regular food to last the whole trip, and consider packing bottled or jugged water so they’re drinking the same water consistently. Tap water can be very unpredictable in new areas, so it’s best to make sure the water they drink is safe and clean.
4. Visit the Vet Before You Leave
Before hitting the road, schedule a quick checkup. Make sure vaccinations are up to date, especially rabies. It’s also smart to carry a printed copy of their vaccination records and health certificate in case the campground asks for it. If your dog isn’t microchipped, this might be a good time to consider it, just in case they get lost.
5. Review Pet Policies Before Booking
Every RV resort is different. At Florida Caverns RV Resort, we allow up to two pets per RV site and have certain breed restrictions. Carefully checking the pet guidelines ahead of time prevents surprises at check-in.
6. Find a Local Vet When You Arrive
Once you’re settled into the campground, take a minute to search for a nearby veterinarian. You may never need it, but knowing where to go in case of an emergency gives you peace of mind. The Marianna Animal Hospital is a great local vet to have saved just in case!
7. Protect Those Paws
Hot pavement, sand, and gravel can be tough on sensitive paws. Pet boots or socks are a great way to keep those paws safe and clean. Try to walk your dog during cooler parts of the day and avoid the midday heat.
Pro tip: Keep a towel by your RV door to wipe off mud and dirt before they head back inside. Your floors will thank you.
8. Keep It Cool
North Florida can get hot, especially in the summer. Always make sure your RV is well ventilated, or the air conditioning is running, if you step out. Many RV owners use temperature monitors inside their rig so they can keep an eye on things while they’re away. Fresh water and plenty of shade are must-haves.
9. Practice Good Pet Etiquette
Keep your dog leashed while outside, clean up after them, and be mindful of other campers. Not everyone is a dog owner, so being considerate helps keep the campground peaceful and enjoyable for all.
Let’s Hit the Road!
RVing with your dog can be one of the best ways to explore North Florida. With a little planning, you and your pup can relax and enjoy everything the outdoors has to offer. We look forward to welcoming you to Florida Caverns RV Resort!
And don’t forget to check out our blog on RV Hacks Every RVer Should Know for more helpful travel tips.