Heat is, without exaggeration, the biggest danger to your pet when travelling by motorhome. A vehicle closed up in the sun turns into an oven within minutes, and heatstroke can be fatal for a dog or a cat. Understanding the risks and how to protect them is a fundamental responsibility. Here's what you need to know. (For any sign of heatstroke, see a vet urgently.)
The golden rule: never alone in a closed camper in the sun
The most important warning: never leave your pet alone in a motorhome that's closed up in the heat, not even "for a moment". The inside temperature climbs to lethal levels within minutes, even if it doesn't seem that hot outside and you've left a window slightly open. Animals die this way every summer. If you have to leave them, make sure it's somewhere cool, ventilated and supervised, or don't leave them at all.
How to protect them from the heat
- Always in the shade: park in the shade and use blinds and insulation (see the camper in a heatwave).
- Cross-ventilation and, if needed, fans (which draw on your battery: size your power set-up accordingly; see calculator).
- Fresh water always available and plentiful.
- A cool floor and, if possible, a cooling mat.
- Avoid exercise and walks during the hottest hours; early morning and evening are best.
Recognising heatstroke
Symptoms: intense, rapid panting, thick drooling, weakness, staggering, very red or pale gums, vomiting, and even loss of consciousness. If you spot these: move them somewhere cool, cool them down with lukewarm water (not iced) on the paws, groin and neck, offer water, and get to a vet urgently. It's a life-threatening emergency.
Especially vulnerable
Take extra care with brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced, such as bulldogs), puppies, older animals, and those that are overweight or unwell: they cope much worse with heat.
In summary
Heat in a closed camper can be fatal for your pet, so the number one rule is never to leave them alone in the sun; protect them with shade, ventilation and water. The step to take today: plan your stops so you never leave them in a closed, hot camper, always keep them in the shade with fresh water, and learn to recognise heatstroke so you can act fast; their life may depend on it. Pair it with your dog's first aid kit.