How to Puppy-Proof Your RV
Traveling with a puppy presents a whole host of challenges that can make the experience difficult. But if you take the necessary steps and puppy-proof your RV, you’ll be better able to enjoy camping trips with the entire family without your new furry friend destroying your rig. So, where do you start? Here are a few easy tips to help you protect your puppy and your RV at the same time.
Invest in a Quality Crate
Crates can take up space, but they’re worth it if you plan on leaving your puppy alone and unsupervised in the RV for any length of time. Look for one that folds down when not in use and bring it with you in your rig. You can encourage the puppy to sleep in the crate at night and put them in the crate while you’re away. This will keep your pup from getting into anything they’re not supposed to and protects your RV from potentially destructive puppy teeth when you’re not around to catch your pup in the act.
Keep Cords Plugged In Only When In Use
Cords can be a tempting chew toy for any young dog, and unfortunately, they’re some of the most dangerous items in your RV. If your pup chews them while they’re plugged into an outlet, the electricity could hurt your dog, and if your dog ingests any small pieces of cord, it could create a medical emergency. Instead of leaving things plugged in within reach of your dog 24/7, only plug items in when you’re using them. As an added bonus, this can help you save on electricity if you’re parked at a site that monitors your usage.
Cover Your Seating
Puppy claws can damage leather upholstery quickly. While your pup is learning to not jump on the furniture, cover your seating in towels or furniture covers. This will create a buffer between your dog and your upholstery and can help you keep it looking like new.
Plan on Lots of Walks
The saying, “A tired dog is a happy dog,” is especially true in an RV. Those tight quarters can make it hard for them to expend energy which can lead to destructive behaviors. That’s why it’s important to take lots of walks throughout the day with your pup. These don’t have to be long. A loop around the campground or a trip to the dog park can let your puppy burn off energy and feel more content staying inside the RV.
Have Tons of Chew Toys Available
Puppies aren’t inherently destructive. They often just chew on things that are convenient for them. Try to have plenty of chew toys available anytime you’re in the RV and if you see your pup starting to chew on something they shouldn’t, redirect their attention to the chew toy.
Traveling With a Young Puppy Is Possible
Puppy-proofing your RV can cut down on the number of repairs your rig will need as your puppy learns to be a responsible member of the family. But accidents can still happen. If your RV needs a little TLC after your first outing with your pup, don’t panic. Schedule an appointment at goHomePort and let our team get your rig looking and working like new.
Go Back Invest in a Quality Crate
Crates can take up space, but they’re worth it if you plan on leaving your puppy alone and unsupervised in the RV for any length of time. Look for one that folds down when not in use and bring it with you in your rig. You can encourage the puppy to sleep in the crate at night and put them in the crate while you’re away. This will keep your pup from getting into anything they’re not supposed to and protects your RV from potentially destructive puppy teeth when you’re not around to catch your pup in the act.
Keep Cords Plugged In Only When In Use
Cords can be a tempting chew toy for any young dog, and unfortunately, they’re some of the most dangerous items in your RV. If your pup chews them while they’re plugged into an outlet, the electricity could hurt your dog, and if your dog ingests any small pieces of cord, it could create a medical emergency. Instead of leaving things plugged in within reach of your dog 24/7, only plug items in when you’re using them. As an added bonus, this can help you save on electricity if you’re parked at a site that monitors your usage.
Cover Your Seating
Puppy claws can damage leather upholstery quickly. While your pup is learning to not jump on the furniture, cover your seating in towels or furniture covers. This will create a buffer between your dog and your upholstery and can help you keep it looking like new.
Plan on Lots of Walks
The saying, “A tired dog is a happy dog,” is especially true in an RV. Those tight quarters can make it hard for them to expend energy which can lead to destructive behaviors. That’s why it’s important to take lots of walks throughout the day with your pup. These don’t have to be long. A loop around the campground or a trip to the dog park can let your puppy burn off energy and feel more content staying inside the RV.
Have Tons of Chew Toys Available
Puppies aren’t inherently destructive. They often just chew on things that are convenient for them. Try to have plenty of chew toys available anytime you’re in the RV and if you see your pup starting to chew on something they shouldn’t, redirect their attention to the chew toy.
Traveling With a Young Puppy Is Possible
Puppy-proofing your RV can cut down on the number of repairs your rig will need as your puppy learns to be a responsible member of the family. But accidents can still happen. If your RV needs a little TLC after your first outing with your pup, don’t panic. Schedule an appointment at goHomePort and let our team get your rig looking and working like new.