With a growing population of pet owners becoming caravan owners, and the availability of caravans on finance, it’s no wonder that many are wondering how to incorporate their animals on their vacation plans. While there are quite a few individuals who find alternate accommodations for their pets during their vacation time, many want to bring their pets with them. While it isn’t always an easy transition, it is possible to include your family pets on your caravan trips.
Ensure the park permits animals before arriving
Every park has a different set of rules and regulations you must follow, from alcohol on the property to site specifications; contact the park before your arrival and ask them about any policies regarding pets on the site. It’s a good idea to note any conditions they might have when bringing your animals too – whether they need to stay on the campsite the entire trip or whether they’re prohibited from certain areas of the property (like the beach or public park areas).
Make sure your pet is vaccinated
Although your pet will likely stay with you the entire trip, having an issue with local pests (like mosquitoes, fleas and ticks) can always be a problem for your animals. Make sure you talk to the veterinarian about any concerns you might have before leaving. Likewise, it’s always a wise idea to have your pet immunized against rabies, which is a fatal disease carried by some wild animals or bats.
Keep your pet leashed at all times
Although your dog might be well behaved on your property, being on new property with different sights, smells and animals can entice even the best trained pet. Make sure you always have your pet on a lead (even if you’re on the campsite) to maintain control of your dog. If you’d like to give your dog more freedom, invest in a long lead with ground anchor. This way, your pup will still be able to sniff and wander around the site but will remain controlled in the event of any problems.
Keep your animals inside at night time
Most predators come through campsites in the evening and night hours, making your outdoor dog a prime target for attacks – especially if they’re unfamiliar with the animals native to that park. Make sure that you bring your pets in at night time to ensure they’re not susceptible to animals, insects or the elements. At night, make sure you take a quick walk through the campsite and pick up any pet items that could be a scent to your dog. This should always include any food bowls that were left out during the day and any water receptacles that your pet gets fresh water from.
Clean up after your pet
It might seem obvious to most pet owners, but some individuals forget to tidy up after their pet while camping in their caravan. If you're travelling with cruizy campers, make sure that you rinse down any urine patches (to prevent burning the grass) and bag any excrement and throw it away in the proper trash locations.
A helpful site to assist on planning your next camping trip - visit the government website for camping information.
