Dog Friendly RVing

In the past, I've written about taking your dog RVing with you. For many, one of the best things about RVing is that their furry friends can come along. Honestly, we can't blame them for feeling this way. After all, who doesn't love to see the pure joy on a little pup’s face when they get to go on a walk in a beautiful forest or at a gorgeous beach?

That said, camping with a dog usually requires staying in campgrounds in order to ensure the pup has everything he or she needs, and many campgrounds have begun discriminating against certain dogs. Breeds that could be considered “aggressive”—such as pit bulls, rottweilers, dobermans, mastiffs, chows, and wolf-mixes—are often turned away from campgrounds.

Related Read: Should Pets Camp? Can You Keep Everyone Happy?

Obviously not every dog within these breeds is dangerous. In fact, most are probably perfectly friendly. However, the fact remains that these types of dogs could be dangerous to other campers, and parks feel the need to protect their guests from this potential harm.

If you own a dog that is often turned away from campgrounds, you may be wondering how to find campgrounds that will accept your furry loved one. Luckily, there are still parks that are open to you, and by following the park rules, you can help keep it that way.

How to Find Dog-Friendly Camping

Looking for a dog-friendly campsite is actually pretty easy, and finding one that accepts your dog’s breed shouldn't be too much of an issue. Here are some tips for making the process go as smoothly as possible.

Use Go Pet Friendly

Go Pet Friendly is a super cool website that allows you to search for pet-friendly campgrounds, hotels, and restaurants. It's incredibly easy to use and absolutely free, making it the ideal way to seek out camping for you and your furry friends.

If you have a breed of dog that is often restricted, this website is especially great for you because it includes a detailed description of the campground, hotel, or restaurant’s pet rules, restrictions, and/or amenities. This means you'll know ahead of time whether or not your pup is welcome.

Look for Public Campgrounds

If Go Pet Friendly doesn't list any pet-friendly campgrounds in the area you'll be visiting, try searching for state parks or national parks in the area. Many of these public parks have no pet restrictions, and it’s possible that some have been missed in the Go Pet Friendly listings.

Call Ahead

Of course, even if a website says your dog will be welcome, you will probably want to call ahead before making a reservation and especially before you drive a long distance. This just ensures the website is still displaying accurate information and helps avoid severe disappointment and possible issues when your trip is already in full swing.

Keep Records on Hand

Keeping your pup’s shot records on hand is never a bad idea. Proof of vaccinations is often required by campgrounds, but this requirement is not always stated when you make a reservation or call the office, leaving you in a pickle should you arrive without the necessary paperwork. Therefore, it's best to keep your dog's records on hand just in case.

How to Ensure Dogs Remain Welcome

Obviously, pet owners truly appreciate that they can camp with their beloved dogs. However, camping with a dog is a privilege, not a right. That means campgrounds could pull this option at any time. In order to help ensure this doesn't happen, be sure to do the following:

Follow the Rules

When you check into your campground, you'll likely receive a list of rules. If you don't, ask for it. Be sure to follow all of these rules, including the ones that apply to your pet. Additionally, you'll want to keep an eye out for (and heed) signs stating your dog isn't welcome in certain areas. This will ensure you remain on good terms with the campground and with other campers, helping people see just how awesome dog owners can be.

Related Read: RV Pet Owners - We all need to behave!

Clean Up After Your Dogs

Even if it isn't listed in the rules, you will need to clean up after your dog every single time they go potty. This will mean carrying special baggies so you can pick up your pup’s business once they've relieved themselves. Nobody wants to step in dog poop, and if messes are left behind, the campground might just decide the dogs aren't worth their while.

Respect Quiet Hours

Quiet hours apply to everyone. This includes dogs, which means you'll need to find a way to make sure your pup isn't barking at all hours of the night. Keeping the shades closed can help with this, and keeping the inside of your RV calm and peaceful is also a good idea.

Accompany Dogs Outside and Use a Leash

Dogs need to get outside regularly. However, in a campground, you'll have to be outside with them. Leaving your dog tied up outside alone is frowned upon, and letting them loose is definitely against the rules. Instead, head out into nature with your pet on a leash and go for a couple of good walks each day. Some campgrounds even have dog parks where you can let your furry friend run free for a bit before heading home. Be sure to take advantage of these any time they're available.

With these tips and tricks, finding a campground where your dog is welcome—and ensuring they're welcome for years to come—should be a cinch. Make your campground reservation today and get ready for an awesome adventure with your favorite pup!