We Bought a Motorhome for Our Dog: RVing in Retirement

Some of the items needed when traveling with a dog are obvious. Don’t forget the food. However, we have learned a few beneficial tips and tricks.

When we first purchased the RV for our dog, my eyes scanned the area to make sure it would accommodate our baby girl. Backup and reread that last sentence. Yes, we bought a motorhome for our dog. When I say we, I include my husband the man who resisted for years saying, “A dog will just tie us down.” Now his world revolves around our little girl.

When we ride our Harleys, Dagney rides in the back, absorbing every wisp of the wind in her face. However, traveling with a dog raises problems: no restaurants, no place for her to stay when we visit roadside attractions, limited space for her to exercise, often confronted by a no dog rule at hotels . . . So, we bought her a motorhome so we could comfortably take our baby with us. It seemed logical at the time.

Well, she is not really a baby at four-years-old but because she only weighs five pounds, we treat her like one. Once I determined there was a space for her food and water dish, a cupboard to store her essentials, an area for a bath, and a comfortable place for her to enjoy the ride, we agreed to make the purchase. Did I mention our dog is spoiled?

We accepted a long time ago, if Dagney ain’t happy, nobody is happy.

Essential items

Dog bed

Though she sleeps with us at night, during the day, her bed defines her space. It is also nice to move it outside for frequent sunning.

Dog fence

A foldable fence is easy to pack and access when we travel. It allows Dagney to be outside without the obstruction of a leash that tends to get wrapped around the chairs, tables, or anything else in her path. We equate it to a baby’s playpen.

Retractable leash

I have found these more useful because I can manage the distance depending upon our location. Around traffic or areas where there are other animals, her ability to roam is limited but when we are in open spaces, she can explore more area with a longer leash.

Vest

We chose a vest over a collar to attach a leash for several reasons. A collar causes her to choke when she pulls and when excited no matter how hard we try, she pulls when excited. A vest fits snugly over her upper body, providing more security. This works provides safety when she is on the motorcycle because she loves to hang over the side as the wind blows in her hair. When purchasing a vest, be sure there is a secure latch as Velcro will not withstand much pulling and your pet will break free of the restraint.

Life jacket

We recently have been boating with friends. As with everything else, Dagney loves speed and wind. By using a life jacket, my fear of her falling overboard vanished. If necessary, we can circle around and pick her up though I hope we never have to.

Blanket and stuffed toys

When Dags, as we affectionately call her, joined our family, she came with a small green blanket; it now travels with her everywhere. Sometimes, I wonder if she left her mother too early because she is very needy. She often cuddles with her blanket or a stuffed animal. Pack items that provide security for your pet.

Food

Changing dog food brands can upset a dog’s tummy and nobody wants a sick dog in a moving vehicle. Be sure to take enough of whatever they usually eat so there will be no chance of running out and having to try something new.

Dishes

Water Hole, that’s the brand we own, no-spill water dish works well when moving. We keep water available at all times. This the no spill type keeps the water in the bowl and off the floor, even when it is kicked or the RV travels over bumpy roads.

I also have an expandable, plastic water dish attached to the handle of her leash so we are prepared for long walks.

Kong

When we leave, we fill a Kong with peanut butter. The online forums I’ve researched say filling it with peanut butter is OK as long it does not have Xylitol, a sugar substitute, an ingredient. She loves it and keep her occupied when alone.

Bark collar

Prior to this device, Dagney was uncontrollable around other dogs. She barked, jumped, and pulled. We tried spray bottles, covering her head, verbal instructions, you name it, but nothing worked. Now, she can accompany us on walks, flea markets and even stores that welcome pets.

After trying two different kinds we found the system that vibrates when she barks the most effective. It elicits a beep as a warning and if the barking continues, vibrates. There are many different levels depending on the size, and hair thickness to accommodate all breeds. Since Dagney is a Yorkie, the lowest setting works best for her. Also, she is a quick learner so very seldom does the vibration occur. In fact, just having the collar on, increases her awareness and decreases unwanted behaviors

The other system that was less effective came with a remote that required us to push a button when she barked. Two flaws with this. 1. If we were not nearby or did not have the remote in our hands to respond, she would bark without any negative reinforcement. Thus, the message was inconsistent. Sometimes she barked and others she could not so the expectations were not communicated. 2. At a distance, the remote was intermittently successful causing confusing again because of a lack of consistency.

Shampoo and conditioner

We use products that are tearless and advertised as appropriate for a dog’s sensitive skin. As with the food, when traveling it is unwise to try anything new that might trigger an allergic reaction or dry skin. When we bath in a small space, our squirrely little one can spray water everywhere so having the shampoo, conditioner, and detangler all in one simplifies the process. And don’t forget a towel so you are not sharing your bath towel with your furry friend.

Medicine

Dagney has allergies that are activated by certain plants and grasses. Our veterinarian recommends a dose of Benadryl when she has a reaction. Because traveling exposes all of us to new environments, anticipate what may be necessary. This has helped a lot so we keep a bottle on hand. If any drugs are taken regularly by your pet, be sure to plan ahead.

Poop bags

Have extra bags available because running out is not a pleasant option. We use a minimum of two a day and they are much easier to carry than a tissue when a disposal is nowhere nearby. Recently, I have noticed a trend to leave the bag beside the path, but this is not cool. Take the waste with you to an appropriate waste area.

Brush

The Furminator has proven to be effective. It combs through Dagney’s long hair without much pulling. This brand is sold in different sizes to meet the needs of all dogs. One of my daughters uses one on her bulldogs. The other daughter uses this brush on her St. Bernard and Mastiff.

Treats

We keep small treats close for positive reinforcement. She especially enjoys her bully stick if I am willing to hold it for her. Once you discover your pets’ favorite, stock up and praise them often.

I Hold a Bull’s Penis Every Night is a story you might enjoy when looking for some humor.

Goggles

When Dagney rides on the motorcycle, she always wears googles to protect her eyes. Recently, my brother bought a convertible so the googles have been used when she rides in it. They are available online with a sizing guide so you can determine the best fit for your animal.

As a retired couple, we never expected to travel with a baby; however, with Dagney we have found, it is much the same, except we can leave her alone for short periods of time. There was a time we questioned if adopting a dog during the golden years of our life was a good idea. Now we know, it is the best idea, and we wouldn’t leave home without her.

Read more of Dagney's adventures.