If you’re an avid RV traveler and a pet lover, you’re in good company. Some 8.9 million households in the United States own an RV, according to the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association. And according to the ASPCA, approximately 44 percent of all households in the United States have a dog, while 35 percent have a cat.
If you’re in both groups, then you’ve probably traveled in your RV with your four-legged friend (or friends!) on several occasions. Having done so, you know that their comfort while traveling is just as important as yours in ensuring that the entire family has an enjoyable and relaxing trip.
Also Read: Here is why Pet Monitor Tops the Industry
What is a Pet Monitor?
As an RVer and pet lover, a reliable pet monitor is certainly on the list of items you need before you hit the road. It is a monitoring system that monitors the pet’s ambient temperature and humidity. Pet monitors give you peace of mind on those occasions that your travels take you away from your RV, to locations where your pet may not be allowed to accompany you, such as restaurants, museums, or theatres. The Pet Monitor nudges you if something goes unsafe for your pet. The best part is that it alerts you in real time.
So, how can you be sure that the RV pet monitor you’ve selected will work well and be reliable while you hit the roads?
Also Read: Why Pet Monitor is a Must-have Essential for RVing 2022
What are the features of a Pet Monitor?
There are different types of pet temperature monitors in the industry. Make sure you pick the right one.
Here are 8 features that will ensure your device works flawlessly and reliably with your RV, no matter where your travels take you.
1. Cellular connectivity
When you’re road-tripping, the last thing you want to do is rely on WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity for your pet temperature monitor. These are unreliable in many areas, and pet monitors that work on built-in cellular networks are a much better fit for RV use. Choose a device that works with a major cellular provider, such as Verizon, to ensure the best possible coverage.
2. Battery-powered back-up
This is a crucial feature to look for in an RV pet monitor vs. one you would use at home, for example. Potential power failures are among the top reasons you’re using an RV pet monitor in the first place. You want to make sure that your monitor will keep working to alert you if temperatures go lower or higher than the preset level you’ve set. Batteries should be powerful enough to last up to 4 to 6 days You’ll also want a device that sends you a real-time alert when your monitor switches into battery mode.
3. Measures both hot and cold temps
If you’re doing lots of traveling in your RV, chances are you aren’t just traveling in the warmer summer months. RV Pet Monitors are best suited to monitor both hot and cold temperatures. That way you can protect your pet from both heatstroke and potential hypothermia year-round.
4. GPS capability
You have a lot riding on, and in, your RV. By selecting a pet monitor with GPS, you’ll have the added benefit of always knowing the exact location of your RV. This can provide peace of mind when you get too far off the beaten path, or in the worst-case scenario if your vehicle is stolen.
5. SMS/text alerts and mobile app feature
When you take an RV with dogs, the best solution for RVing Pet Parents is a pet temperature monitor that sends instant alerts via text and email, so you never miss being notified of a potential problem. Quality devices will also offer associated user-friendly mobile apps for both Android and iOS so that you can check the conditions of your pet’s environment as often as you’d like, in real time.
6. Doesn’t limit travel destinations
As an avid road-tripper, you aren’t limited to the United States when it comes to RV travel. The best monitors for RV owners are those that will work across borders, allowing you to travel into Canada and Mexico and still maintain reliable service.
7. Geofence Safety
RV theft is a big concern when you leave it in campgrounds or parking spaces. Look for Pet Monitors that provide Geofence features. By setting a virtual fence around your RV for a certain radius, you can monitor your RV’s safety. Once the RV is moved out of the radius, you get an instant alert. Also, when you leave your beloved pet inside and step out for a short break, geofence becomes the top-notch solution for your Pet and RV.
8. Easy and Simple Installation
The monitor must be easy and simple to use. It should be easily transferable from one vehicle to another. It should not involve any wiring or drilling. Easy-peasy like Peel and Stick.
These features will ensure you choose a pet monitor that is best suited for RV use.
