Can Pets Go Caravanning? Why Not!?

This past summer we featured some of Instagram’s favourite Aussie RV'ing dogs and how to keep your pets cool while caravanning. People were quick to point out that pets other than just dogs make great RV companions and we were like… really? Some Googling proved that people know what they’re talking about, there are some awesome pets cruising through campsites calling a caravan home. If you love your pets but also love the open road, where there’s a will there’s a way! Here are some of the “RV pets” we’ve found since enlightenment.

More Dogs

There are so many great dogs tagging (wagging?) along on epic adventures. More than any other pet, dogs are most suited to RV life in Australia and are welcome in many caravan parks - but make sure you confirm this ahead of time! On average, adult dogs sleep 12 to 14 hours a day and puppies and senior dogs around 18 to 20 hours a day. This means most dogs will be happy as Larry to snooze while you drive and save their energy for outdoor adventures hiking, hitting the white sand beaches, or wandering the country town by your side.

Don’t forget that dogs, especially the larger, furrier breeds, need ample time to cool down. So if you’re going off-grid, a good fan – like the Sirocco II – is a must have.

Cats

There are quite a few cat-friendly caravan parks in Australia, but generally speaking, cats are most suited to short trips. Cats love to prowl, are inquisitive, and many of them are natural-born killers - if they escape they can pose a real threat to endangered Australian wildlife. After a few days in a small space cats can go a little stir-crazy… and generally speaking they don’t like to be walked (although, cat harnesses do exist!). This means that they will have to go to the toilet indoors, in a kitty litter box. Not only are these bulky and stinky, but the contents can be toxic and you’ll need to have a disposal plan ahead of time. Cats also need a chill space, with good airflow to stay comfortable if they're joining you through the hot months. 

Fish

Fish are a great option if you are looking for something small, low maintenance, kid-friendly and pretty. Popular choices include goldfish and Siamese fighting fish. If you are bringing your fishy friends along for the ride, make sure their enclosure is fixed to the wall and will not tip. We also recommend stocking up on supplies before you head off because these can be trickier to come by than dog or cat supplies. There are a couple cool options out there, as featured on Thor Industries blog!

Rabbits (or other smol guys)

Rabbits, guinea pigs and mice are also popular choices with children: They’re fuzzy, cuddly, and cute! But like cats, they can’t be let out to roam in the Australian outback, both for their safety and that of the Australian fauna and flora. Take a travel pen with you to set up while you're chilling outside so they can catch the sunset and feel the outdoor air on their furry bods. Rabbits can overheat easily as their fur is some of the warmest on the planet. Make sure you've got ample airflow moving through your RV if you've got a rabbit along for the journey. Sirocco II will help a lot!

Birds

For experienced bird owners, an RV trip with your feathered pal might be possible! They must be accustomed to staying in their cage, if they get out and spook while the door is open or while you’re driving it can be very dangerous. Budgerigar (“Budgies”) and Cockatiels are popular choices because they are both native to Australia, placid in nature, and small in size. This blog on Nomadically Yours has some essential tops for RV traveling with birds.

When deciding whether to bring your bud RVing with you, their species isn’t the only factor. You should also consider the personality of your pet, their health, and your experience and adaptability as a pet owner.

Most pets need to be kept cool and, like us, appreciate good airflow. Sirocco II is a favourite fan for caravanning in Australia and beyond. Check us out if you think your rig could get a bit cooler!

We’d love to know what pets you have brought with you on your short trips and your long hauls! Send us a pic or tag us at @SEEKRlife on Instagram.