So you’ve just purchased your new or used class B motorhome? Now your kids, friends and significant other couldn’t be more excited to get out on the open road and try it out!
But what about the rest of the family? You know, the ones with four legs and lots of fur.
Good news, most pets love traveling in an RV or motorhome just about as much as you do! If you have a pet that isn’t familiar with riding in a van for extended periods of time, there are lots of things you can do to get them adjusted.
Some animals are just naturally better travel companions, but this list should help you turn even the most cautious pooch or feline into a seasoned road warrior!
Get your pet well acquainted with your motorhome or RV.
Allowing plenty of time before your first trip to get your dog or cat used to the motorhome can help save a lot of stress and drama down the road!
Start by bringing some of your pet’s favorite belongings into the RV or motorhome – familiar items such as toys, crates, blankets and feeding bowls to help earn your pets trust. Letting your cat or dog sniff around the vehicle will add their personal sent and make them more comfortable each time they climb aboard.
Some pets will naturally adjust sooner. Others may have some anxiety and express this through whining, drooling or pacing. If your animal shows these behaviors try the following:
- Feed your pet their favorite treats inside the RV or motorhome. This will create positive associations with the vehicle.
- As tough as it may be, ignore the whining, pacing and drooling. Calmly sit with your pet, stroke its fur and reaffirm their safety with gently words.
Get your pet used to the sound of the engine.
Some animals flinch at the sound of any sort of engine or motor. After creating a pet-friendly environment with their favorite toys and comfort items, let your cat or dog sit with you in the vehicle while the engine is going.
If your pet shows signs of being okay with the noise, reward them with a little treat. If your animal is having a hard time, ignore their behavior. Distract them inside the vehicle, then try calmly sitting with them again. After doing this process a few times, a treat might help for your next practice run.
Get your pet used to the motion of the vehicle.
Once again, make sure your dog or cat has their favorite things inside the rig or motorhome. Start your vehicle but let the motor idle for a few moments. After becoming comfortable with the sound of the engine, you will want to ease your pet into a state of motion.
Once you make sure your dog or cat is in a safe spot, take them around the block for a quick trip. If your animal is calm, have lots of treats handy for a reward! If your furry family member throwing a fit, ignore their behavior. After a few short trips most pets will calm down. Once they show signs of adjusting to the RV or motorhome praise them with treats! Make you they associate your new RV, motorhome or conversion with fun memories and treats.
If all else fails, there are a number of all-natural pet remedies you can give your animal to alleviate road trip stress and anxiety. For instance, Bach Rescue Remedy Flower Essences is one you might try.
Searching for a motorhome, RV or conversion van for you and your pet’s next road adventure? Classic Vans has the nation’s top selection of new and used travel vehicles. Call (866) 370-8222 today and let our experts place you in the motorhome or van of your dreams!