While we are still in the wanabee stage, we are trying to get answers to many of our questions. We have two medium size dogs and wonder what you other dog owners do with your pets when you want to jump into your toad and go see some of the area attractions. This may sound dumb, but are you comfortable leaving them in your MH as you did in your previous home?
Thanks,
George & Sandy
aka Foxriverguy and Foxrivergal
mikeway said
09:15 PM Sep 23, 2006
Hi George and Sandy,
We have a fair sized dog. 60 lbs of Aussie and Pyrenees.
Most times we have no more problem leaving her in the RV than we did at home. However we do set a limit of 5 hours or so. If your dog is well behaved, it should be no problem. Lady is so good, I usually carry the lead instead of leading her.
When we take her, it is with plenty of water and and ample outside time. I clearly would not take her downtown, but most touristy type places are not a problem.
Mike
Judy said
09:21 PM Sep 23, 2006
Right now we are full timing with our 2blackdogs, Rahma and Rio. When we go some place that we want to see we simply seperate them and leave them in our fiver with the air on depending on what time of the yr it is. We are never gone for more than 3 to 4 hrs at the most. They have adjusted very well and enjoy the traveling. So far they have been to Kansas, Ok, Co, Utah, Az. and New Mexico where we spend much of our time.
southwestjudy & Bob & 2blackdogs
Paul and Bonnie said
07:57 AM Sep 24, 2006
We have a 15 lb long hair Chihuahua and we take him on every trip. That is his picture to your left. Isn't he cute? We don't worry about leaving him in the 5th wheel for a reasonable amount of time with food and water and comfortable temperature in the fifth wheel.(cool in the summer and warm in the winter.) After all, we leave him home when we go to work for 8 hours a day. He sleeps most of the time that we are gone. I have never worried about anyone bothering him in the campground if that is what you worry about. I don't know why except that I have always felt that most people who RV are nice. If you get to know your neighbors in the campground, they will even look out for your belongings while you are gone. If someone seems suspicious, they will be stopped. But, we have never had that problem. If someone leaves a dog and it barks the whole time then the fellow campers are unhappy. You don't want to make you neighbors angry even if they are temporary neighbors. We have been traveling for three years and find that more and more people are traveling with their pets. I hope we will soon see more pet friendly places. To me my dog is part of my family and there are many times I would like to take him with us. If we are hiking on long trails, we have to leave him because his little short legs and all that hair makes it hard for him to keep up. He gets lots of TLC when we get back and he gets to explore the campground with us. He loves to sit outside and watch the activity.
Tom N Gina said
08:15 AM Sep 24, 2006
Hi everyone,
We have 2 big dogs. Bailey and Hailey 250 pounds of loving Great Dane. I believe that dogs are pack animals and with that said. It seems they like the closer space to live in the better they like it.
We also hear the words when we have them with us, "How do you keep 2 big animals like that in that 5th wheel?". Well believe it or not, it is very easy account they are couch potatos and not the type that bark at every little thing. Not to mention they are our kids so enough said.
I always ask the nieghbors if we leave to make sure to let us know if they are raising any caine. However when either of us do leave them alone, we always leave the radio or a fan on for white noise to cover anything going on outside that might stir them up. The only thing that they respond to is if you knock on the door. Then they are probably mad because you interupted their nap time.
One thing that is a must is any time we walk them or take them (take us) for a run I always carry my two Wal-Mart bags. A must out of respect to others........ Amazing how I have found and picked up many an extra what we call "land mines" here or there. Some people just don't get it!!!
Certain parks do not allow specific types of pets account insurance reasons so I always check with the park on the phone before I reserve. This will save you from the hassle of finding the park and then being told you can't stay.
Since we will be living in our rig we will be taking our carpet cleaner along. Three large bodies and one small (Gina)(points are real guys) in a confined space will require this by our standards. Then I keep a small shop vac and vacume with a beater brush to keep up the place.
So if you happen upon us feel free to say hi..........
Besides as the kids would say: "Don't just stand there, pet me!"
Tom N Gina
-- Edited by Tom N Gina at 10:17, 2006-09-24
pasco1215 said
08:42 AM Sep 24, 2006
The BUS is our 2nd home. We would love to leave Pasco in the BUS so we can go somewhere and have a meal in town. He isn't too fond of missing out of a bye bye ride! We put up the garbage can (into the shower stall). He likes to be BAD when he is unhappy. Close the curtains and blinds. He will be fine for about 4 hours at the most. He whines and cries for awhile and then just settles down and goes to sleep. If we are in a busy RV park, he will sit at the bottom of the inside steps and look out the little "doggie window". We usually tell our neighbors that we will be gone and ask them to let us know if the dog was annoying.
alspa said
03:50 PM Mar 9, 2008
Tigger is now 15 going on 16 and we are getting ready again to head to Alaska from Florida....thats HUMAN years, which is closing on 100 in dog years for a 75 pound dog.
We have never towed a vehicle, as Tigger alwas went in the RV wherever we went...at Most we would take short boat trips or float plane trips for 5 or 6 hours, and he would be fine after a walk and a treat when we left, and the same when we returned.
If you care to you could type in "web.tampabay.rr.com/monaco2/Tiggers%20Travel%20Chapter/Tigger's%20Travels.html "
to get to "Tiggers RV Travels" for a story of his explorations since he was a puppy of 4 pounds over 15 years ago.....it is just a part of our website about RV ing with a dog.
-- Edited by alspa at 10:21, 2008-03-10
-- Edited by alspa at 10:22, 2008-03-10
ahoweth said
08:07 PM Mar 9, 2008
We started a second family when a boyfriend of our daughter decided to give her a puppy for her 16th birthday. Well now you know who ended up with the dog. She, Brandy, is a miniature poodle and has turned out to be just the finest and sweetest little spirit I have ever encountered on this earth. We started full timing about 3 years ago, Brandy was 10 years old then. She had gotted used to being left alone as we both worked before our retirements. She had just loved our new life as she isn't left alone very much. During the years of being left alone she learned to take care of herself and she seldom ever barks unless asked to. We have left her alone in the motorcoach for up to 16 hours without any messes, but with her getting older that is just asking too much so we don't leave her for more than about 6 to 8 hours any longer and that very seldom. At her age she sleeps most of the time any way. When the time comes and God takes this little spirit back to himself our world will be a much drearier place. I hope and pray that it will be a while longer yet. We can't imagine not having her around with us.
-- Edited by ahoweth at 21:09, 2008-03-09
gypsy97 said
01:19 PM Jun 26, 2008
This topic has been on the forum for quite a while since anyone has posted to it, so if I don't hear anything I will just start a new one.
I'm researching the possibility of fulltime RV living. I have a shepherd mix about 85# and a mutt, abt 40#. Currently I drive a Jeep Grand Cherokee and notice that the dogs have a difficult time jumping into it and really balk at doing so. I even have to lift the smaller one because she has slipped a few times trying to jump up. They don't really like jumping out either. How in the world do those with larger dogs manage the steps to the RV? If I had to I could lift the smaller one and carry her on board, but not the big one. gypsy
Judy said
04:48 PM Jun 26, 2008
We travel with 2blackdogs as some may know on this forum neither of them have any trouble. We have 3 steps into our fiver. Our larger dog Rio is 75 lbs and has not trouble stepping into or out of the fiver or jumping into the F-550 truck. He is an Australian Shepard. Our other smaller dog Rahma who is only 5 lbs. does the fiver steps very well also. He just simply takes his time in going in and out. They will and do learn how to get in an out. Also there are additional steps that you can buy also ramps for the older dogs. southwestjudy
Luvglass said
06:14 PM Jun 26, 2008
Hi, We have friends with a large dog that has problems climbing in their truck and they bought a ramp which seems to work well. It should work for the motor home also. Good luck, Fred
gypsy97 wrote:
This topic has been on the forum for quite a while since anyone has posted to it, so if I don't hear anything I will just start a new one.
I'm researching the possibility of fulltime RV living. I have a shepherd mix about 85# and a mutt, abt 40#. Currently I drive a Jeep Grand Cherokee and notice that the dogs have a difficult time jumping into it and really balk at doing so. I even have to lift the smaller one because she has slipped a few times trying to jump up. They don't really like jumping out either. How in the world do those with larger dogs manage the steps to the RV? If I had to I could lift the smaller one and carry her on board, but not the big one. gypsy
Perfectlygoode said
06:32 PM Jun 26, 2008
We travel with our two dogs, Cosmo and Belle. They are wired hair foxed terriers, full of life and love. They were one of the main reasons we decided to travel by fifth wheel---so we would never have to leave them behind. We do, of course, leave them from time to time in the fifth wheel so we can shop, or sight see. They have always been fine. We do check with our neighbors and make sure they behaved themselves and so far no problems. In fact, last winter I had to have unexpected surgery. I needed to have my gall bladder removed and we were about 45 minutes away from the hospital. Well, we ended up being gone for about 10 hrs---we usually do not leave them alone for more than 3 or 4. We informed all our neighbors and gave one of them my husband's cell phone so he could call if there was a problem. I even put some puppy pads on the floor in case someone just couldn't wait to go. It was a long day for us all, but we all did fine. They were sure happy to see us when we came home. I will share my one concern. If it is really hot, I do worry about the AC. Let's face it, there is always the possibility of the power going off or something going wrong with the ac and fifth wheels heat up fast! Again, that is why I think it is always good to make sure your neighbors know you have pets and that you will be gone for a little while. I'm also thinking of posting a sign near our front door which will let folks know we have pets and give our phone number in the event of a problem or an emergency. There are a lot of us out here traveling with pets and I think for the most part we do look out for one another.
gypsy97 said
06:53 PM Jun 26, 2008
I really appreciate all the replies. My dogs have always been good travelers as I haven't flown in several years (and don't intend to), but I have driven to and from Sacramento at least once a year for the last five. The dogs always ride in the back of the Jeep, and we stay at Motel 6 because they allow pets. I think they will love RV living, although they will be giving up the freedom of the woods in our NC cove, as well as the excitement of bears, snakes, etc. on the trail.
Grant said
10:12 AM Jun 27, 2008
Luvglass wrote:
Hi, We have friends with a large dog that has problems climbing in their truck and they bought a ramp which seems to work well. It should work for the motor home also. Good luck, Fred
As Fred's friend with a large dog (80 pound Golden Retriver). I wasn't comfortable with him making the long jump out of the back seat of our 4X4 dually. I also got tired of picking him up to put him into or take him out of the back seat. We got the Smart Ramp. It is adjustable for length and will hold up to 300 pounds. It has been a great investment!
The question of how long can your leave you dog alone in an RV. How long would you leave the dog alone inside your sticks and bricks house. We left our dog inside when we went to work if it was raining and never had a problem of any kind. However, we try to limit his time alone to about 6 hours. If you are going to be gone all day on a tour; there is always doggie day care at a local kennel.
Grant
blijil said
11:07 AM Jun 27, 2008
We love to hike the trails with our dachsund Sandy, however there are some places we want to be that severely restrict her freedom. We just work it out. Sometimes she has to stay in the rig, sometimes at the neighbors, and sometimes we just choose to find a more pet friendly place. Mostly we go where we want, take our time, and see what we want to see without leaving Sandy more than 4 or 5 hours.
Mostly she is more pleasure and pain.
Larry and Jacki
breezy said
12:18 PM Nov 29, 2008
Perfectlygoode...that is the main thing that concerns me when I start fulltiming with my chihuahuas THE POWER GOING OFF and leaving my babies in the hot fifth wheel....Does anyone have a solution for this? Generator backup? Some sort of cell phone signal to alert you in case this happens? Anything?
Roz said
01:19 PM Nov 29, 2008
Breezy,
Our three furry-snouted, four-legged children (two pups and a cat) are as at home in the MH as in the house. We simply close the dark shades and leave the radio on while we are gone for no more than four to five hours.
Our MH has a thermostatically controlled Fantastic Fan ceiling vent. We set the temp, and should the interior surpass that, the ceiling vent opens and the fan comes on.
Never have had a problem with power failure.
Charles
breezy said
01:46 PM Nov 29, 2008
WOW that is great ROZ! Is that fantastic fan in most fivers? Option?
Luvglass said
03:54 PM Nov 29, 2008
Fantastic fans are options with most brands and the thermostatically controlled ones are an additional option off the base unit.
Electrical service in almost all campgrounds is as reliable as your electricity at home. Not to worry.
gypsy97 said
07:58 PM Dec 1, 2008
I picked up my two dogs today who have been kenneled most of the time I've been here in NY. Packed a lot of items in the truck to take to the RV, which I have stored about a mile away, and thought it would be a good time to introduce the dogs to the RV, their future home. Mandy (40#) is small enough that I could sort of lift her up the steps. Lady, (85#) however, absolutely refused to go near them, and she is too heavy for me to lift. I want to leave in the morning as I will have a very small window of opportunity to get to my first stop before the weather becomes a problem.
What in the world will I do with that dog! gypsy
Judy said
09:07 PM Dec 1, 2008
You might try sitting down on the second step with a treat then coax her to put her front paws on the first one for it. Then the next and so forth. If this doesnt work try standing on the left side of the steps giving her security on the opposite side of the door. Maybe even have the one door on the right side over to the steps for security there for her with you on the left side. southwestjudy
Cindy T said
08:09 AM Dec 3, 2008
Just wanted to add my $.02 worth about leaving dogs in RVs - I have a pet sitting business, and having a pet sitter come to your RV to care for your pets is an option. The campground office may have referrals to local pet sitters and local veterinarians often can refer you to a reliable sitter. Also, here's a website you can use to locate a sitter - www.petsit.com All the sitters on that site are members of Pet Sitters International. These sitters agree to a code of ethics, are usually bonded, insured, and are pet sitting as a business not as a hobby. You click on "Locate a Pet Sitter", then enter the zip code where you're staying and a list of sitters in that area will be displayed. Pretty handy!
Luvglass said
02:31 PM Dec 3, 2008
gypsy97 wrote:
I picked up my two dogs today who have been kenneled most of the time I've been here in NY. Packed a lot of items in the truck to take to the RV, which I have stored about a mile away, and thought it would be a good time to introduce the dogs to the RV, their future home. Mandy (40#) is small enough that I could sort of lift her up the steps. Lady, (85#) however, absolutely refused to go near them, and she is too heavy for me to lift. I want to leave in the morning as I will have a very small window of opportunity to get to my first stop before the weather becomes a problem.
What in the world will I do with that dog! gypsy
The dog is afraid of the space at the back between the steps and just has to get used to it. If you can't entice her up, I would put a leash on and pull her up the steps. After she done it a few times, she's good to go. Good luck,
gypsy97 said
03:02 PM Dec 4, 2008
Fortunately the dogs-up-the-steps issue is improving greatly. At first Lady bucked and twisted like she belonged in a rodeo! I realized that I wasn't giving her enough time and was trying to force her to climb the steps. I saw her make several false starts and just waited, and sure enough she climbed them and was fine. She still hesitates, but I know if I'm just patient she will go up the steps. Once she gets started she has no real problems with it, and neither does Mandy, the smaller dog.
gypsy
foxriverguy said
01:19 PM Dec 5, 2008
I was surprised to see that I had started this topic about 26 months ago. Thanks to all of you who have contributed. There is lots of real good advice here. We have a telescoping ramp that we now use to get our dogs in and out of our station wagon. That item might work in the motorhome. if not, I will see what I can put together on my own -- IF Trixie and Norton can't negotiate the steps.
Who the heck is that Roz character with the furry-snouted "kids"?
sunflwrgirl said
10:34 PM Sep 10, 2012
Great reading here! Thank you everyone for all your postings. We now have a shih-tzu (10 pounds) and a goldendoodle (soon to be 45b pounds). Really am looking forward to outing in the trees and wherever else we can get into with our fur babies. This site help me to see that everything will be fine and we will not be the only crazy ones to live in such a small rv with two adults and 2 dogs ;D
Mimi2717 said
05:48 AM Jan 6, 2013
DH and I are in the planning stages and are hoping to be going fulltime in about a year. We went to an RV expedtion tonight with me thinking that I definately wanted a Class A, however after looking at the 5th wheels and toy haulers, I am now leaning towards one of those. We have 4 dogs, the smallest being about 12# and the biggest 30#, my question is more on getting from point A to point B. There just simply wouldn't be enough room in the truck to crate 4 dogs for travel, is it legal or would it be possable to crate them and secure the crates in the trailer while traveling. If not, what would be another option? I would appreciate any advice I can get.
cejones4210 said
07:18 AM Jan 6, 2013
A co-works shows 4 Great Danes and travels with them in the "garage" of their toy-hauler which is set up with their kennels and a built in grooming station. I believe that is where they travel, not in the back seat of their truck, there wouldn't be room for their son and 4 Great Danes. :)
Terry and Jo said
07:23 AM Jan 6, 2013
Randa,
I know that others have had their pets in crates in the trailer. There have even been some with cats that just let them run free so they can get to their litter box. I think you will need to observe each one after traveling to see how they have reacted to being in a "moving crate." One will just need to insure that there is space within the coach with the slides pulled in to allow for four crates. If the fifth wheel is one that limits access to the living area while the slides are in, that will need to be considered so that one can stop occasionally to allow the dogs out for bathroom breaks.
We tend to stop about every two hours for our two MinPins, but they ride in the truck with us when traveling, so we never need to worry about access in the trailer.
Terry
Mimi2717 said
08:48 AM Jan 6, 2013
Thanks for the replies. I'm glad to hear they can ride in the trailer, that is the answer that completely swayed my decision. We will make room for the crates whatever it takes, we were also thinking of a toy hauler which would be perfect not only for travel but to give them their OWN ROOM wherever we stay. We saw some tonight at the expo that had inclosures to the "porch" area, we loved them. Accomodations for the dogs will definately be one of the deciding factors on what we do get. They have not ever been crated so that is my first order of business, getting some crates and trying to get them used to being in those and traveling in them. They all like to travel but they are usually in the back of my toyota 4runner that is gated off from the rest of the vehicle, so the only issue will be the crate. Wish me luck...lol
53 Merc said
03:21 PM Jan 6, 2013
Just be careful in Colorado. IN Colorado you cannot haul a dog in the back of an open pickup. You can pack it with kids, but no dogs? Go figure. Some overzealous person might find out about the dog's traveling emporium and cause you some trouble. People can ride in a fifth-wheel if there is direct comunication with the tow vehicle in some states.
Alie and Jims Carrilite said
04:21 PM Jan 6, 2013
The cats usually ride in the bedroom of the 5'er which is the smoothest place to be. The mutt rides in the truck in the back seat.
Lucky Mike said
04:42 PM Jan 6, 2013
I ride in the kennel......the dog has been trained to do most of the driving......service dogs are great!!!!!!!.............LOL
cejones4210 said
10:37 PM Jan 6, 2013
Our two Aussies, originally just rode open in the backseat of the truck, but I bought a collaposable softsided kennel. We put the back seat in our crewcab down and it's like a large play pen for them, they have their kennel for sleeping and food and water and toys. They love traveling. Then when we need to get out for a bit and they cannot come with us, we just put them in their kennel and they sleep until we get back. Of course, if the weather is too hot, they stay in the Airstream with the air conditioner and fan on. But the "playpen" in the back is great when we are traveling. My point, is though, that after traveling without a kennel for a year, and then starting to use a kennel, they quickly adjusted to riding there and sleeping in it during the drive and were comfortable being left in it. Safer for them to travel in the back in the kennel than sitting on my lap, but being spoiled as they are, they still take turns riding on my lap. :)
wildbill2673 said
05:13 AM Jan 7, 2013
We have had dogs, cats and such even before we became fulltimers and from our experiance we really did not have too many troubles with the adjustment we have always left them loose in the fifthwheel and it depends on the dog. At one time we had three dogs, seven cats and a rabbit in a 30 foot fifthwheel. Talk about crowded now we have bigger fifthwheel and less animals and it is much better. I think that when it comes to pets and rvs it depends on how they lived in thier stick built homes before the rv life. if you let you cat loose for the day them your cat will want to go out for the day when you are in the rv and that can be bad for the pet in a strange area depending on the preditors in the area same goes for a dog.
Lucky Mike said
05:18 AM Jan 7, 2013
My girl is blanket trained , she will only go where the blanket is and lay down or she is stuck to me durring the day and sleep hours
Lucky Mike said
12:26 PM Jan 7, 2013
HHhhhhhmmmm............I never get frustrated at people who dont carry bags and clean up after there pets........I simply pick it up for them , return to there campsite and hand it to them and say " This is yours ,you dropped it back there" I find that at my size (6'2-265#) They just stand there dumfounded.
I believe in Leave it as you found it.......No one would take there RV to the town dump for vacation , or put there lawn chairs and BBQ out at the local waste water treatment plant...........nor should you have to dodge "Pet mines as you walk down a path"
Another "Pet peeve of mine is dog leashes.......4 ft is what most parks call for for safety reasons , Retractable leashes that are 12 and 16 ft do not give you any control of the animal. you have no way to reel them in and they have 12 to 16 ft to move about. I use one but my dog is in a heel position if anything approaches.
petting a strange dog is a bad practice.........I walk with a service dog, it is trained medically and also very protective of me.....if it is out with me she is working.....Do not approach...make eye contact..or enter inside the work zone(4 feet). I have a hard time alot with small children , I must command the dog down and Muzzle Her, then try to explain why they cant pet the puppy in a manner that makes them happy and proud to have met the dog and understand the working of a service animal.
Its hard to believe that there are adults out here that after 40 - 50 plus years believe that pets do not Bite........All animals bite or defend themselves....including Humans , I have had grown adults ignore placards on the dog...reach out and get there hand bit only to scorn me because they basically put their hand in the dogs mouth!
Sorry to get off on an informative rant, but I see to many pets with un responsible owners out here.......and a few that hopefully never get pets.
My dog is my Trainer......she watches over me and would give her life for me........all she asks for in return is love,devotion and care.....Im still learning!!!!!!
-- Edited by Lucky Mike on Monday 7th of January 2013 01:04:56 PM
WestWardHo said
07:15 PM Jan 7, 2013
We travel in our dually with the pup in a harness hooked to the seat belt and the kitty in her travel box, also seatbelted in. The cat cried a lot at first and had a couple of accidents, the pup just lays down until we stop. At campgrounds, we have a folding cage that the pup stays in if we are gone and it stores in the basement when we don't use it. We leave TV on low and make sure temps are good plus we have automatic fantastic fan too. Our Sadie is just a pup so we don't trust her out of the pen if we aren't home. Never leave for more than 5 hours. When we're home we keep the bedroom door closed in our fiver as Sadie thinks the cat is her personal Squeek toy and cat can escape under the door up the stairs to her own "apartment".
Read a very funny post on another forum were very responsible dog owners who had taught their dog not to bark when they were away. However they returned to their motorhomes one day and were told they had to leave the park immediately. Seems their dog had stood on the drivers seat and layed on the horn the whole time they were gone! They, of course, apologized & packed up and left.
We also are diligent about carrying poop bags and like the rest of you get frustrated with those who don't.
Sherry
WestWardHo said
08:46 PM Jan 7, 2013
Good post Mike, I'm going to do the same thing with doggie bags if I see/know the owner and I'm only 5'7"!
We were just at the beautiful RV Park at the Naval Weapons Station in Seal Beach, Ca. It's an immaculate park and rules are given to you as you register and laundry rules are also posted in there. On New Year's Day I needed to do laundry. All 8 washers were in use when I got there. Two washers had completed their cycle. Rules say don't leave laundry in machines. I waited about 30 minutes the used the provided basket to unload the washers. The second one had a dog bed in there on top of other laundry. Although it had been thru a cycle it was filthy and had gobs of dog food and hair all over. The signs clearly said "no washing of pet bedding". I was stunned that someone in or retired military had so little regard for the rules. (i'm easily shocked, what can i say! : ) I took the sign off the wall and placed it on top of the machine and by that time another washer was freed up so I completed my laundry. A long-term camper lady came in a good hour later and asked about the sign. She went and got the camp host who true moved the laundry and dumped it on the floor in the corner. He said he was pretty sure who it belonged to. Never saw who they belonged to but I hope they were asked to leave. RV'ers like this give us all a bad name. Each campground has different rules, it's important that we respect them.
cejones4210 said
06:02 AM Jan 8, 2013
Amen to both posts. Common sense and common courtesy, where have they gone?
scrappy said
03:56 PM Mar 16, 2013
Interesting read.
We are going to full time with four dogs. Our German Shepherds are obedience trained and we generally walk them on traffic leads (very short). They are friendly and very socialized, we take them everywhere, Petco, Tractor Supply, Lowes, you name it. Our female has had thousands of dollars in training and the pup is about to begin his time at the trainer. Anywhere that we can take dogs, we take them. People comment on how well behaved they are, and how friendly they are even with other dogs. Now, if someone would reach agressively towards me, well, thats not a great idea with any dog.
The other two are just happy little mutts that will totally enjoy the adventure.
We purchased our fifth wheel based on available space for three soft sided crates for the three older dogs and one larger crate for the puppy while he is still in destructo mode, which he is just about to outgrow, thank God. All of the dogs are crate trained. All of the crates can be folded easily and stored when not needed.
Luckily, we can bring the dogs to work with us and will not need to leave them all day. Well, the Shepherds love to come to work, the little dogs not so much, they will prefer staying "home".
Scoping out parks with "off leash" pet areas has been a full time job, but they are available. Just found one with an obstacle course! Im so excited about that! We are contacting the campgrounds in advance to ask about policies. So far, our responses have been positive, which is a good feeling.
We absolutely understand what we are about to undertake and havent made this decision lightly, but we certainly will not live without our dogs.
Luckily, we have friends all over the US that know us and our dogs and have offered to welcome us and our critters with open arms, so if campgrounds dont work for us, we will figure it out. And, we are prepared to buy a couple acres as a home base if necessary.
So, if you are in the south and see four dogs pile out of a fifth wheel, please do come and meet Odin, Storm, Holler, and Howdy.
We have a fair sized dog. 60 lbs of Aussie and Pyrenees.
Most times we have no more problem leaving her in the RV than we did at home. However we do set a limit of 5 hours or so. If your dog is well behaved, it should be no problem. Lady is so good, I usually carry the lead instead of leading her.
When we take her, it is with plenty of water and and ample outside time. I clearly would not take her downtown, but most touristy type places are not a problem.
Mike
Right now we are full timing with our 2blackdogs, Rahma and Rio. When we go some place that we want to see we simply seperate them and leave them in our fiver with the air on depending on what time of the yr it is. We are never gone for more than 3 to 4 hrs at the most. They have adjusted very well and enjoy the traveling. So far they have been to Kansas, Ok, Co, Utah, Az. and New Mexico where we spend much of our time.
southwestjudy & Bob & 2blackdogs
Hi everyone,
We have 2 big dogs. Bailey and Hailey 250 pounds of loving Great Dane. I believe that dogs are pack animals and with that said. It seems they like the closer space to live in the better they like it.
We also hear the words when we have them with us, "How do you keep 2 big animals like that in that 5th wheel?". Well believe it or not, it is very easy account they are couch potatos and not the type that bark at every little thing. Not to mention they are our kids so enough said.
I always ask the nieghbors if we leave to make sure to let us know if they are raising any caine. However when either of us do leave them alone, we always leave the radio or a fan on for white noise to cover anything going on outside that might stir them up. The only thing that they respond to is if you knock on the door. Then they are probably mad because you interupted their nap time.
One thing that is a must is any time we walk them or take them (take us) for a run I always carry my two Wal-Mart bags. A must out of respect to others........ Amazing how I have found and picked up many an extra what we call "land mines" here or there. Some people just don't get it!!!
Certain parks do not allow specific types of pets account insurance reasons so I always check with the park on the phone before I reserve. This will save you from the hassle of finding the park and then being told you can't stay.
Since we will be living in our rig we will be taking our carpet cleaner along. Three large bodies and one small (Gina)(points are real guys) in a confined space will require this by our standards. Then I keep a small shop vac and vacume with a beater brush to keep up the place.
So if you happen upon us feel free to say hi..........
Besides as the kids would say: "Don't just stand there, pet me!"
Tom N Gina
-- Edited by Tom N Gina at 10:17, 2006-09-24
We have never towed a vehicle, as Tigger alwas went in the RV wherever we went...at Most we would take short boat trips or float plane trips for 5 or 6 hours, and he would be fine after a walk and a treat when we left, and the same when we returned.
If you care to you could type in "web.tampabay.rr.com/monaco2/Tiggers%20Travel%20Chapter/Tigger's%20Travels.html "
to get to "Tiggers RV Travels" for a story of his explorations since he was a puppy of 4 pounds over 15 years ago.....it is just a part of our website about RV ing with a dog.
-- Edited by alspa at 10:21, 2008-03-10
-- Edited by alspa at 10:22, 2008-03-10
When the time comes and God takes this little spirit back to himself our world will be a much drearier place. I hope and pray that it will be a while longer yet. We can't imagine not having her around with us.
-- Edited by ahoweth at 21:09, 2008-03-09
I'm researching the possibility of fulltime RV living. I have a shepherd mix about 85# and a mutt, abt 40#. Currently I drive a Jeep Grand Cherokee and notice that the dogs have a difficult time jumping into it and really balk at doing so. I even have to lift the smaller one because she has slipped a few times trying to jump up. They don't really like jumping out either. How in the world do those with larger dogs manage the steps to the RV? If I had to I could lift the smaller one and carry her on board, but not the big one.
gypsy
southwestjudy
We love to hike the trails with our dachsund Sandy, however there are some places we want to be that severely restrict her freedom. We just work it out. Sometimes she has to stay in the rig, sometimes at the neighbors, and sometimes we just choose to find a more pet friendly place. Mostly we go where we want, take our time, and see what we want to see without leaving Sandy more than 4 or 5 hours.
Mostly she is more pleasure and pain.
Larry and Jacki
Our three furry-snouted, four-legged children (two pups and a cat) are as at home in the MH as in the house. We simply close the dark shades and leave the radio on while we are gone for no more than four to five hours.
Our MH has a thermostatically controlled Fantastic Fan ceiling vent. We set the temp, and should the interior surpass that, the ceiling vent opens and the fan comes on.
Never have had a problem with power failure.
Charles
What in the world will I do with that dog!
gypsy
southwestjudy
All the sitters on that site are members of Pet Sitters International. These sitters agree to a code of ethics, are usually bonded, insured, and are pet sitting as a business not as a hobby.
You click on "Locate a Pet Sitter", then enter the zip code where you're staying and a list of sitters in that area will be displayed. Pretty handy!
Good luck,
gypsy
Thanks to all of you who have contributed. There is lots of real good advice here. We have a telescoping ramp that we now use to get our dogs in and out of our station wagon. That item might work in the motorhome. if not, I will see what I can put together on my own -- IF Trixie and Norton can't negotiate the steps.
Who the heck is that Roz character
Randa,
I know that others have had their pets in crates in the trailer. There have even been some with cats that just let them run free so they can get to their litter box. I think you will need to observe each one after traveling to see how they have reacted to being in a "moving crate." One will just need to insure that there is space within the coach with the slides pulled in to allow for four crates. If the fifth wheel is one that limits access to the living area while the slides are in, that will need to be considered so that one can stop occasionally to allow the dogs out for bathroom breaks.
We tend to stop about every two hours for our two MinPins, but they ride in the truck with us when traveling, so we never need to worry about access in the trailer.
Terry
The mutt rides in the truck in the back seat.
We have had dogs, cats and such even before we became fulltimers and from our experiance we really did not have too many troubles with the adjustment we have always left them loose in the fifthwheel and it depends on the dog. At one time we had three dogs, seven cats and a rabbit in a 30 foot fifthwheel. Talk about crowded now we have bigger fifthwheel and less animals and it is much better. I think that when it comes to pets and rvs it depends on how they lived in thier stick built homes before the rv life. if you let you cat loose for the day them your cat will want to go out for the day when you are in the rv and that can be bad for the pet in a strange area depending on the preditors in the area same goes for a dog.
HHhhhhhmmmm............I never get frustrated at people who dont carry bags and clean up after there pets........I simply pick it up for them , return to there campsite and hand it to them and say " This is yours ,you dropped it back there" I find that at my size (6'2-265#) They just stand there dumfounded.
I believe in Leave it as you found it.......No one would take there RV to the town dump for vacation , or put there lawn chairs and BBQ out at the local waste water treatment plant...........nor should you have to dodge "Pet mines as you walk down a path"
Another "Pet peeve of mine is dog leashes.......4 ft is what most parks call for for safety reasons , Retractable leashes that are 12 and 16 ft do not give you any control of the animal. you have no way to reel them in and they have 12 to 16 ft to move about. I use one but my dog is in a heel position if anything approaches.
petting a strange dog is a bad practice.........I walk with a service dog, it is trained medically and also very protective of me.....if it is out with me she is working.....Do not approach...make eye contact..or enter inside the work zone(4 feet). I have a hard time alot with small children , I must command the dog down and Muzzle Her, then try to explain why they cant pet the puppy in a manner that makes them happy and proud to have met the dog and understand the working of a service animal.
Its hard to believe that there are adults out here that after 40 - 50 plus years believe that pets do not Bite........All animals bite or defend themselves....including Humans , I have had grown adults ignore placards on the dog...reach out and get there hand bit only to scorn me because they basically put their hand in the dogs mouth!
Sorry to get off on an informative rant, but I see to many pets with un responsible owners out here.......and a few that hopefully never get pets.
My dog is my Trainer......she watches over me and would give her life for me........all she asks for in return is love,devotion and care.....Im still learning!!!!!!
-- Edited by Lucky Mike on Monday 7th of January 2013 01:04:56 PM
Read a very funny post on another forum were very responsible dog owners who had taught their dog not to bark when they were away. However they returned to their motorhomes one day and were told they had to leave the park immediately. Seems their dog had stood on the drivers seat and layed on the horn the whole time they were gone! They, of course, apologized & packed up and left.
We also are diligent about carrying poop bags and like the rest of you get frustrated with those who don't.
Sherry
We were just at the beautiful RV Park at the Naval Weapons Station in Seal Beach, Ca. It's an immaculate park and rules are given to you as you register and laundry rules are also posted in there.
On New Year's Day I needed to do laundry. All 8 washers were in use when I got there. Two washers had completed their cycle. Rules say don't leave laundry in machines. I waited about 30 minutes the used the provided basket to unload the washers. The second one had a dog bed in there on top of other laundry. Although it had been thru a cycle it was filthy and had gobs of dog food and hair all over. The signs clearly said "no washing of pet bedding". I was stunned that someone in or retired military had so little regard for the rules. (i'm easily shocked, what can i say! : ) I took the sign off the wall and placed it on top of the machine and by that time another washer was freed up so I completed my laundry. A long-term camper lady came in a good hour later and asked about the sign. She went and got the camp host who true moved the laundry and dumped it on the floor in the corner. He said he was pretty sure who it belonged to. Never saw who they belonged to but I hope they were asked to leave.
RV'ers like this give us all a bad name. Each campground has different rules, it's important that we respect them.
Interesting read.
We are going to full time with four dogs. Our German Shepherds are obedience trained and we generally walk them on traffic leads (very short). They are friendly and very socialized, we take them everywhere, Petco, Tractor Supply, Lowes, you name it. Our female has had thousands of dollars in training and the pup is about to begin his time at the trainer. Anywhere that we can take dogs, we take them. People comment on how well behaved they are, and how friendly they are even with other dogs. Now, if someone would reach agressively towards me, well, thats not a great idea with any dog.
The other two are just happy little mutts that will totally enjoy the adventure.
We purchased our fifth wheel based on available space for three soft sided crates for the three older dogs and one larger crate for the puppy while he is still in destructo mode, which he is just about to outgrow, thank God. All of the dogs are crate trained. All of the crates can be folded easily and stored when not needed.
Luckily, we can bring the dogs to work with us and will not need to leave them all day. Well, the Shepherds love to come to work, the little dogs not so much, they will prefer staying "home".
Scoping out parks with "off leash" pet areas has been a full time job, but they are available. Just found one with an obstacle course! Im so excited about that! We are contacting the campgrounds in advance to ask about policies. So far, our responses have been positive, which is a good feeling.
We absolutely understand what we are about to undertake and havent made this decision lightly, but we certainly will not live without our dogs.
Luckily, we have friends all over the US that know us and our dogs and have offered to welcome us and our critters with open arms, so if campgrounds dont work for us, we will figure it out. And, we are prepared to buy a couple acres as a home base if necessary.
So, if you are in the south and see four dogs pile out of a fifth wheel, please do come and meet Odin, Storm, Holler, and Howdy.