If you’ve ever road-tripped with a dog, you know the moment. You’re cruising along, windows down, music up, and then it hits you.
That smell.
You glance at your dog. They glance back at you, all innocence and tail wags. And in that moment, you both know—you’ll never know who was responsible, but it’s here now, and you’re stuck in a rolling metal tube with it.
Welcome to RV life with pets.
Don’t get us wrong: bringing your furry friend along for the adventure is one of the best parts of RV travel. But it does take a little planning, a little patience, and the ability to say, “It’s fine, it’s just fur,” for the 147th time.
Whether you’re a seasoned pet-road-warrior or loading up your pup for their first big trip, here are the real things to keep in mind when traveling with a four-legged co-pilot.
1. RVs Are Big. Dogs Are Bigger (When They’re Underfoot).
It doesn’t matter if you’re in a 40-foot Class A or a cozy camper van—your dog will find the exact spot that blocks every drawer, every footpath, and the one cabinet you need right now.
They will sprawl. They will do that dramatic huff thing. And you will step over them like a kind and gentle ninja approximately 85 times a day.
Pro tip: Give them their own space. A dog bed, a crate, a window perch—anything that feels like theirs. It helps them settle, and it helps you not trip with a boiling pot of chili in hand.
2. Not Every Campground Is Pet-Friendly (But Mustang Run Definitely Is)
It’s easy to assume every campground loves dogs. After all, who could say no to that face? But not all RV parks roll out the welcome mat for your pooch.
Some charge fees. Some limit breeds or size. Some have leash rules that feel more like a doggy parole program.
That’s why we went ahead and made Mustang Run in Yukon, OK super pet-friendly on purpose. We’ve got space to roam, a dedicated dog park for zoomies, and guests who get it because their furry family members are along for the ride, too.
3. Your Dog Doesn’t Understand Why You’re in a Rolling House
This is a new world for them. The walls move. The floor vibrates. You’ve parked next to a squirrel-heavy tree. It’s a lot.
Give them time to adjust. Keep their routine as consistent as possible—walks at the usual time, food in the usual bowl, and belly rubs on demand.
Oh, and don’t forget to secure them while you’re driving. Seatbelt harnesses, crates, or travel carriers are the way to go. Because nobody wants their dog surfing the dashboard during a quick brake.
4. You’ll Need a Dog Bag That’s Basically Better Than Your Own Luggage
Packing for your pup? Here’s the real checklist:
- Food (and backups of food, because of course)
- Water bowl and travel bottle
- Leash, harness, collar with ID tag
- Vet records (yes, really—especially for out-of-state travel)
- Poop bags (bring twice as many as you think you need. Then add five)
- Towels (for mud, drool, and existential crises)
- A lint roller, unless you’ve already surrendered to the fur
And if your dog is high-maintenance? You’re also packing calming chews, grooming gear, and that one toy that looks like it’s been through four wars but they can’t sleep without.
5. Pets + RV Climate = You Gotta Plan Ahead
RVs can heat up or cool down fast. You wouldn’t leave your kid in a hot car, and you shouldn’t leave your dog either.
Before you head out for the day, think:
- What’s the weather going to do?
- Do I have AC running?
- Do I have a temperature monitor set up just in case?
And for the love of dog, don’t trust “it’ll only be 10 minutes” as a reliable plan. Bring them along, schedule outings around cooler hours, or—pro move—book campgrounds that have shady spots and allow for some breezy windows.
6. Be Ready for the Unexpected (and the Gross)
We love our pets. But they’re gonna do some weird stuff out here.
Rolling in mud puddles. Barking at wind. Getting nervous tummies halfway through Amarillo.
It’s all part of it.
You’ll need a plan for bath time (hello, campground shower stall), quick cleanup kits, and maybe a second blanket for those just-in-case nights where they decide your bed is theirs now.
Also? Travel with cleaning spray and paper towels at all times. If nothing else, it makes you look like you’ve got it together.
7. Yes, It’s Worth It
Despite the fur, the smell, the midnight potty breaks, and the occasional pawprint on the RV dashboard… it’s absolutely worth it.
There’s something special about watching your dog discover new places right alongside you. Sniffing the air at a new site. Curling up beside the fire. Chasing butterflies like it’s their job.
They’re not just coming along for the ride—they are the ride.
So go ahead and bring your four-legged adventure buddy. We’ll make sure there’s space for both of you.
And if you’re still blaming the mysterious smell on them? Well… let’s just say we’ve seen the fridge after a few days of “I thought you packed the cooler.”
Ready to bring your pup along for your next stay? Mustang Run’s got the dog park, the space, and the WiFi that works even if your dog insists on livestreaming their nap. See you both soon.