Escapees September-October 2024

camping chair chat

Consider Natural Calming Interventions Although veterinarians used to prescribe tranquilizers regularly for traveling pets, many have become reluc tant to do so. Tiny kidneys have dif fi culty processing medications, and the convenience of a quiet drive isn’t worth endangering your pet’s health. However, the following natural interventions are non-toxic and may help manage pet anxiety on long RV journeys: • Aromatherapy: Many pet stores sell special cartridges that snap onto your car’s vents and release a pheromone that calms dogs or cats. • Thunder shirts: These garments feel like a hug from mama or papa, swaddling your pet’s chest and sooth ing anxiety and works similar to a weighted blanket. • CBD: CBD is safe for dogs and cats, and a small dose of a formula intended for pets may ease their anxiety. • Massage: Massage relaxes pets, not just humans. Holding your pet before and after your journey as you reassure them and rub their sore spots transforms your trek into a mini spa day for your furry BFF. Talk to Your Vet Finally, consult your vet before going on an extended RV journey with your pet. Although tranquilizers shouldn’t be your fi rst choice, your provider may decide to approve one in some instances. If nothing else, you can discuss important issues like how to fi nd emergency care on the road if something happens, and to get extras of any medications your pet takes. Managing Pet Anxiety on the Road Many dogs need little prompting other than the words “car ride” to prance around in excitement. Kitties may need more persuasion, although countless RV dwellers live with their feline friends full-time in their motorhomes. Whatever type of pet you have, use the above guide to keep it safe and manage its anxiety during long trips. You’ll enjoy a more peaceful drive with your BFF by your side. Jack Shaw, Guest Contributor JACK SHAW has been writing about exploring the outdoors for over six years and currently serves as the senior writer and editor for Modded. He enjoys hiking and backpacking and is an avid survivalist and o ff -roader. His tips on overlanding and traveling across the country have been featured in publications, including The Travel Magazine ,

Keep Pets in Your Vehicle Those with Class A or Class C motorhomes may be able to secure their pet’s carrier behind the captain’s chairs. However, never leave a pet unattended in a pull-behind model like a fi fth wheel or toy hauler. Likewise, even if it seems OK to let your pets wander during transit, buckle them up. Like a person, a pet can become a projectile during an accident, leading to serious injury. Tend to Their Basic Needs Holding off on feeding and watering your pet may seem tempting until you reach your destination. However, doing so can have severe consequences for their health. Cats, in particular, are especially susceptible to dehydra tion, as anxiety may cause gastrointestinal distress that affects how much they drink. Offer small, frequent snacks instead of a large, heavy meal to avoid discomfort — and accidents. This method works well for dogs and cats. However, even if your feline typically eats dry food only, add a few moist packets into the mix. Cats can meet many hydration needs through food if it doesn’t consist solely of dusty kibble. Take Frequent Breaks Taking breaks bene fi tsboth you and your pet on an

extended RV trip. Getting out to stretch your legs prevents blood pooling in humans — and animal physiology isn’t all that different. Physical activity eases anxiety in people and may serve a similar purpose in your dog or cat. If nothing else, it may tire them out enough to nap once you return to the road. Pack an extra leash and walk your dog at least every

four hours. While some cats take to a leash, using one in an unfamiliar roadside environment might not be the best idea. However, you can let your Burmese or Siamese out of their cage to run around your RV and bring along their favorite string toy or laser pointer. Some kitties also fi nd a grooming session soothing, although others may resist handling.

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Opinions contained in “Camping Chair Chat” are not necessarily those of the Escapees RV Club, its o ffi cers or the membership in general. This column is for Escapees magazine readers to share thoughts, ideas and helpful hints. Escapees RV Club accepts no responsibility for what is expressed here by any person, group or company. If accepted, submissions will be edited for magazine style and formatting. Submissions that are sent by e-mail can be directed to departmentseditor@escapees.com.

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September/October 2024 ESCAPEES Magazine