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How to secure a dog in a 2-berth motorhome

What could be better than travelling with your loved ones in a luxury motorhome? Seeing sites, visiting landmarks and exploring nature are just some of the many activities you’ll enjoy on your road trip. 

But did you know that your four-legged friend can join too? 

While some dog owners may choose not to take their dogs on road trips (with safety concerns and space issues in mind), it’s common for even the most well-travelled motorhome owners to avoid taking their pets aboard a moving vehicle.

So, if you want to learn more about how to secure a dog in a 2-berth motorhome, we’re here to help! 

(Always keep in mind that some of our advice will depend on the size of your dog and vehicle.)

What are the laws on taking dogs in motorhomes?

Did you know there are laws when it comes to taking your dog on a motorhome trip? 

While there are no regulations for when the vehicle is stationary, the same can’t be said when you’re on the go. 

Rule 57 of the UK Highway Code underscores the importance of keeping your dog restrained in a moving vehicle. Specifically, it states that:

“When in a vehicle, make sure dogs or other animals are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly. 

A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars.”

If you’re taking a motorhome abroad (in this context, abroad refers to Europe), post-Brexit rules mean that you will not only need a passport, but your pet will, too!  

Pets can travel with you to another EU country (including Norway and Northern Ireland) if they have been microchipped (or have a clearly readable tattoo applied before 3 July 2011), vaccinated against rabies, and possess a valid European pet passport.

The pet passport contains details about the pet, its microchip or tattoo code, rabies vaccination record, and contact details of the owner and the vet who issued the passport. 

According to Your Europe, If travelling to an area free from the tapeworm Echinococcus multilocularis (Finland, Ireland, Malta, Norway, and Northern Ireland), pets must also have had treatment against this tapeworm.

Why go motorhoming with a dog?

1. They get to enjoy the fun! 

Dogs love exploring, so what better way to make them happy than by taking them around the UK? With so much wildlife and nature to explore, your furry friend will have the time of their life. 

2. You don’t have to worry about care arrangements 

There’s nothing more important than knowing your pet is in safe hands. 

By keeping your dog at your side, there’s no need to coordinate with pet sitters or kennels, and you won’t spend your trip worrying about how they are doing back home.

Your dog gets to be part of the fun, and you’ll get peace of mind knowing they’re where you can see them! 

3. Dogs love nature

Nature is like a giant playground for dogs, where every new path is an adventure waiting to happen. From forests to beaches, cities to towns, letting your four-legged friend join your adventures keeps them active, healthy and mentally stimulated.

How do I secure a dog in a motorhome?

1. Use a dog cage

If you’re engaged in activities where you won’t be able to keep a close eye on your dog (e.g. packing your belongings away or cooking), then a dog cage can be a great way to contain them. 

The enclosure can be firmly anchored within the motorhome, offering your dog some freedom to move while confining them to a specific area. 

Some enclosures can be fastened to the motorhome’s seats using harnesses and seat belt adapters to ensure stability during transit.

2. Use a dog carrier 

A dog transporter (or carrier), generally more compact and portable than an enclosure, is crafted for safely transporting dogs in vehicles. 

It can be anchored in a seat or positioned in a stable area to prevent movement during transit. This method is particularly suitable for smaller dogs and will ensure they’re secure and contained during the journey.

3. Use a harness 

A harness, particularly when used alongside a dog seat belt, can securely anchor your dog in place without causing discomfort. 

It’s a less restrictive option that allows some movement while preventing them from wandering around the motorhome. The harness should be snug and comfortable for your dog to prevent any distress during travel.

Travel in a pet-friendly motorhome with Melling Motorhomes!

At Melling Motorhomes, we’ve taken the wants and needs of pet-owning motorhome enthusiasts into consideration. 

You shouldn’t have to miss out on the road trip of a lifetime just because you’re worried about pet care: just take a trip in one of our pet-friendly vehicles and enjoy the fun as a family! 

We offer the spacious, 4-berth Zefiro 696 Pet-Friendly motorhome, as well as the 6-berth Zefiro 675.