Tips For Safely RVing With Pets
One great benefit to traveling/vacationing in an RV is that you can take your pets along with you, and at Sunlight Resorts, we pride ourselves on being pet friendly. Our Resort at Canopy Oaks in Lake Wales, Florida, has a pet exercise area for your four-legged family members and we will be welcoming non-aggressive pets to our newest resort, Champions Run in Ocala (opening June 1st, 2022). Below you will find some tips for safely RVing with pets, so you can have just as great of a time getting to your Sunlight Resorts location as you will once you arrive.
Get Them Used to the RV
If your pet has never been RVing before, it’s always a good idea to familiarize them with your RV before your trip. Let them look around and get used to the area. If possible, it may even be a good idea to stay in the RV with your pet a night or two before taking off. That way, they will already have their sleeping spot picked out before you even hit the road.
Decide on Their Riding Arrangements
If you are RVing with pets in a fifth-wheel or other type of towable RV, your pets will need to have a space to ride in the vehicle with you. It is never safe for pets to ride in the trailer or RV while it is being towed.
For those driving Class C, Class A, or other types of motorhomes, your pet will have to ride in the RV with you. Though, for their safety, it may be a good idea to keep them in a secured kennel for the ride.
Exercise is Key
While traveling, your dog will need to get out and stretch their legs every hour or two. Plan to stop at rest areas or other locations that allow them to go to the bathroom, take a brief walk, and get some mental stimulation in.
Once You Get to Your Destination
Once you arrive at your Sunlight Resorts destination, you and your furry family members will have the best experience by keeping the following in mind:
Keep your dog leashed when out and about:
For the safety of all of our two and four-legged guests, Sunlight Resorts requires all dogs to be on a leash when outside the RV and walking around the grounds.
Keep your RV climate-controlled:
Before leaving your pet inside your RV, make sure you use adequate climate controls to keep them healthy.
Bring home comforts:
A favorite blanket, toys, or pet bed, along with plenty of their favorite treats, will help your pets associate your RV with the safety of home.
Clean up after your pet:
It’s not just considerate. Our pet policy requires that you clean up after your pet.
Help your dog be a good neighbor:
Many dogs bark because they have pent-up energy, are bored/lonely, or are sensitive to outside noises. The following may help your dog be a good neighbor while in the RV.
- Run a fan, TV, radio, or white noise machine to drown out external triggers.
- Take your pet for a decent walk before leaving them alone to release energy.
- Have plenty of toys around the RV to prevent boredom.
- Many pet organizations recommend an anti-barking device for excessive barkers. They make a high-pitch noise that discourages barking.
Gear For RVing With Pets
It’s a given that you will need to bring plenty of food, water, bowls, and other basic pet gear with you. Below you will find some extra gear recommended by The American Kennel Club.
- Safety harness with a handle
- Light that attaches to a leash or collar
- Dog life vest [if you will be near water]
- Water toys
- Booties to protect paws on…hot or rocky surfaces
- Dog sunscreen for nose, ears, and other exposed areas
- Pet-friendly mosquito and tick repellent
- Collapsible food and water dishes for your backpack
- Old beach towels for drying your pup off, mopping up messes or providing a surface to lie on
Enjoy RVing With Pets and Saving With Sunlight Resorts
Sunlight Resort’s newest resort, Champions Run in Ocala, Florida, is set to open on June 1st, 2022 and you can save 10% or 20% when you book your stay between opening day and September 30th. You can also check out our promotions page to find even more deals.
10% Off Summer Monthly Stays
Use Code: SUNNY
Valid June 1st – September 30th. Standard RV Sites only, must call to book, not applicable with other discounts or promotions. Call 407-630-7000 to Reserve Your Stay
20% Off Daily Stays
Use Code: SUMMERFUN when booking online.
Valid June 1st – September 30th. Standard and Premium RV Sites only, not applicable with other discounts or promotions.
Whether you’re RVing with pets, it’s just the two of you, or you’re bringing the kids along, we have the first-class amenities and planned activities to ensure everyone has an amazing time. So be sure to secure your site at one of Sunlight Resort’s Luxury RV Resorts today!