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Writer's pictureCathy Garland

Mission Possible: No Pet Left Behind

Traveling with your pet isn't just a trip—it’s a special bonding experience.


We love exploring new places with our loyal sidekick (or two or three), creating cherished memories. It's also good for the animals. Working dog breeds or those who have "retired" from the police force can become depressed if they don't experience new places and new smells. Camping, swimming, hiking, and exploring are excellent options for using that superpower!


Conversely, in an RV, pets who might normally experience stress or anxiety in unfamiliar environments can enjoy the familiarity of favorite toys, bedding, and scents while still being included in the adventures.


If you've started thinking about traveling this summer with your furry friends, you're not alone. The increased interest in pet-friendly travel makes sense: almost 1 in 5 households (approximately 23 million Americans) adopted a cat or dog during the pandemic and don't want to leave them behind!

The 2024 Kampgrounds of America Camping & Outdoor Hospitality Report found that more than 64% of America’s campers are now traveling with their dogs. That’s up from less than 40% when the annual KOA surveys started in 2012. According to The Dyrt’s 2024 Camping Report, 53.7% of campers brought their dogs camping last year. ( Only 5.8% included cats in their outdoor adventures—and we've also seen chickens, box turtles, Guinea pigs, ferrets, and parrots.) It's easier to include pets in RV camping than other forms of camping which is likely why 20.8% are more likely to do so than tent camping.

Great news! Outdoor destinations like campgrounds are starting to take notice of the popularity of pet-friendly travel. Campgrounds and RV parks are tailoring their facilities and amenities to pet-friendly visitors and well-known brands in the industry are highlighting tips and tricks for consumers who want to begin RVing with their pets.


  • Here's a great link to some excellent campgrounds that are pet-friendly, and have dog parks, treats, and more.



And last, but not least, we're sharing some encouragement from our newest team member, Bri, who travels with her husband, two kids, three dogs, AND 2 ferrets (get her story here). She says to bring the whole kit and kaboodle—the fun and memories will last a lifetime. The dogs particularly love to swim and hike with her family, getting exercise and providing an extra measure of safety.


Happy camping!

-From the Team at Paradise RV


And another one, just because we couldn't resist that face:







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