Traveling with pets is one of the advantages of camping. We RV with Nova, our one-year old Shihtzu, and she’s a good traveler. We have a Kurgo pet seat in the cab of the truck, complete with safety belt to attach to her harness. She sits high between our two seats, which gives her a good view. She has enough room to curl up for naps, too.

She also has a Nylabone chew and a stuffed toy in her Kurgo. ( Kurgo products are available on Amazon.com.)

I carry a large bag, sort of like a diaper bag, complete with treats, food, baby wipes, plastic gloves for picking up poop, a Tupperware bowl filled with drinking water, and any medicine she might need. The bag goes with us to the Casita when we set up camp.

Dogs love routine, so we keep to her regular schedule as much as possible. We bring her crate from home so she’s sleeping in the same bed at night.

It’s important to observe common courtesy and safety rules, including:

• Keep your dog leashed unless in a fenced dog park or run.
• Keep your dog secured with a safety belt while traveling. A loose dog may be a dead dog in a crash or sudden stop.
• Always pick up dog poop and dispose properly (many parks, campgrounds, and rest stops have designated areas for dog waste disposal.)
• Never leave your pet alone in the vehicle unless you leave air conditioning running, and then only leave them briefly.
• Don’t leave your dog tied up outside your RV.
• Give your dog water frequently, especially in warmer weather, to avoid dehydration.
• Don’t leave your dog unattended for long periods. It’s not fair to the animal or your neighbors, especially if your dog is a barker.
• Obey all campground pet rules. Don’t try to take your fur baby into buildings that are off-limits to animals.

Some attractions offer dog kennels for visitors, although we haven’t used those. A growing number of stores allow you to bring your dog. Also some fast-food restaurants offer outdoor seating where you can take your dog.

I hope you enjoy travel with your pet as much as we do.