RVing with Pets

rvparkshowlow
6 days ago
11 min read

RVing with Pets in Show Low & nearby

While we locals feel Show Low is a pet-friendly destination, it's good to have more specific info on what to expect when arriving in our paradise in the woods. This article will focus on traveling with dogs/cats and will provide safety and comfort tips, weather info, packing recommendations, pet etiquette, and hiking considerations.
Safety First!
Mountain Climate Summers: Show Low’s summers are milder than Arizona’s low deserts (our average highs in the low 85°F range in July). However, the sun at 6,300+ feet elevation can still heat up a vehicle interior, so beware. Provide your dog a cooling mat or even a kiddie pool if water is available and it’s really warm (many dogs love to splash or lay in a little water to cool off). Dogs cool through panting and their paw pads – so wetting your dog’s feet or misting their belly with water can help them cool down in dry heat. Always keep fresh cold water accessible; maybe add ice cubes to the water bowl on very hot days. Plan outdoor playtime or walks in the early morning or late evening when it’s cooler, and letting dogs rest during the hottest part of the day. At high altitudes, ultraviolet radiation is stronger, so if your dog has a pink nose or thin fur, you can apply a pet-safe sunscreen to exposed skin (like nose, ear tips) when outside for long periods.
Staying Warm on Chilly Nights: Nights are much cooler (often down to the 40's-50s°F even in summer), and winters are cold with occasional snow. For humans that might be great sleeping weather, but a short-haired or small dog might get cold. Bring sweaters or coats for your pet for evening and morning outside time. Inside the RV, ensure the temperature doesn’t drop too low overnight – you might need to run the furnace a bit or a safe space heater. Provide your pet with extra bedding as many dogs will burrow into a blanket if one is provided. If you’re RVing in late fall or winter, preparation is even more crucial: insulated pet jackets, booties for snow (if any), and making sure the RV’s heat is working well. Note that Show Low does get snow (about 25 inches annually), so winter RVing means you should be ready to protect your animal from ice and cold. Wipe their paws after walking in snow to remove ice balls or road salt. Never leave your fur baby in an unheated RV in freezing temperatures – cold can be as dangerous as heat. RVers should be prepared for temperature swings – your furbie might need a cooling mat by day and a warm blanket by night.
Sad pooch staring at the rain

Monsoon Storms: Show Low does get summer monsoon storms (typically July–August afternoons). These thunderstorms can drop temperatures quickly and scare some dogs with thunder. RVers should secure their awnings and outdoor gear if leaving the RV unattended during monsoon season, so a sudden storm doesn’t cause damage (this indirectly is a safety tip for pets too, so they won’t be around flapping tarps or awnings). For dogs that are thunder-phobic, have a safe spot in the RV where the dog can retreat – maybe their crate or a bed in a closet or under the dinette. You can play calming music or use a white noise machine to help drown out thunder claps. A snug “Thundershirt” or calming treats (like those with chamomile or CBD, if you use them) might be in your toolkit if your dog is very anxious. Storms usually pass quickly in this area, and staying with your dog during the worst of it will comfort them.
Terrain and Altitude: Note that Show Low lies on the Mogollon Rim at around 6,345 feet elevation. The terrain is forested (tall pines, lakes, trails, mountains) with some rocky areas. Higher elevation exercise can tire out animals, and their humans, faster due to thinner air, so take it slow on the first few hikes. Paw protection might be wise on rocky trails, but generally the forest floor is paw-friendly.
Wildlife Awareness: Wildlife is very common to Show Low/White Mountains. Coyotes are around and can be a danger to unattended pets, so pets shouldn't roam off-leash unsupervised (coyotes have been known to prey on pets). Rattlesnakes are present in the warmer months – they bask on sunny rocks in spring and summer, so owners should keep pets on trails and out of tall grass or rock piles. In areas known for snakes, you can walk your dog in the morning when it’s cooler (snakes are less active) and avoid letting them sniff under rocks or logs. Other wildlife includes elk and deer (which can startle dogs and also pose a road hazard to drivers, black bears (rare near camp but possible – PLEASE don’t leave food or garbage out), javelina (wild pigs that can be aggressive toward dogs) and even large eagles that can scoop down and pick up smaller pets. The key is to keep a close eye on them, preferrably on a leash, or right at your side for maximum safety. Use a flashlight and make noise when walking at night to avoid surprising any animals. That being said, many owners and locals can't stand the idea of not letting their pets run free. We totally get it, but forewarned is fore-armed.

Packing for the Trip

Health and Paperwork: Visit your vet before an extended trip – ensure the fur babies are up to date on vaccinations and flea/tick prevention (ticks can be present in forested areas). For short weekend visits, a basic check is fine, but for long-term stays, you may also want to ask your vet about rattlesnake vaccines or preventative measures if you’ll be hiking often in snake country. Pack copies of vet records, especially if you plan to use local groomers, dog daycare, or if a campground requires proof of rabies vaccination.
Packing list:
-food/water (a sudden change in diet can create upset stomachs or behavior issues)
- treats
-Bowls
-Toys
-Pet first-aid kit (with items like tweezers for cactus spines or tick removal, bandages, and antiseptic)
-Comfort items (favorite bed, toys, anxiety relief jacket if your furry is nervous Nellie with traveling)
-For longer stays, pack grooming supplies or plan where to get them locally (PetSense, Above & Beyond Salon, Perfect Paws, It's a Ruff Life, Biscuits Pet Resort to name a few)
-Medications in quantities to last your entire stay.
Extended Stays: You may need to almost “set up home” in order to really be prepared for different scenarios. This means knowing where the nearest veterinarian or emergency pet clinic is in Show Low (Alta Sierra, and Aspen Ridge Animal Hospital are both close by). You’ll also want to locate pet supply stores (Petsense, Perfect Paws, Pet Food Warehouse). If staying a full season, prepare for weather changes – e.g. if you’re there in late fall, bring a warm animal jacket for the cold. Also discuss establishing a routine for long stays: find the local dog park or a daily walking route so your pet gets into a comfortable rhythm (The Deuce of Dogs Bark Park at the Show Low City Park). Essentially, for long-term RV living, you’ll be integrating into the local community, so knowing dog-friendly resources and having all the gear for all conditions is key.
Potty break for pets too

Safe Travels: Driving to Show Low with Your pet

Restraints: Of course, we all know our pets should be secured in the vehicle. Some of our babies are resistant, though (is it them, or the owners??). Whatever their disposition, we still recommend not letting them roam free inside the vehicle. Either keep them in a well-ventilated crate, or with a dog seat-belt harness that attaches to an anchor point. That can be on a seat, floor, or truck bed. This prevents them from becoming projectiles or distracting the driver. Many dogs love to stick their head out the window, but on a highway this can be dangerous (road debris or sudden stops can injure the pet), so it’s better to keep windows only cracked or use vents for fresh air.
Pit Stops: Stopping every few hours to let your 4-legged loved one stretch, hydrate, and go potty. Taking a short walk on a leash during breaks will help an anxious or energetic pet stay calmer during the ride. As you approach Show Low, the roads get winding and steep in areas – driving up the Mogollon Rim involves curves and elevation gain. It’s wise to secure any loose items in the RV that could fall on your pet. If your furry is prone to car sickness on curvy roads, consult your vet about remedies or plan to drive slowly with more breaks.
Pets in a Vehicle: The golden rule of pet travel – do not leave your dog alone in the RV or car without climate control. Even in Show Low’s milder temperatures, a vehicle can heat up quickly in the sun. If you must leave the RV briefly (for example, to grab food), ensure the AC is on or windows are open with ventilation and it’s only for a very short duration. In general, it’s best to avoid any stops where you can’t bring your pet along during warm weather.
Wildlife on the Road: Wildlife is common when driving in the early morning or at dusk. The Show Low area is known for elk/deer crossings – hitting a 600-pound elk can be devastating. Keep pets restrained during these times in case sudden braking is needed, and use headlights even at twilight to spot animals. This keeps both the pet and the human occupants safe on the journey.

Pet Etiquette

Leash Rules and Etiquette: Almost all campgrounds and RV parks in the Show Low area welcome pets, but they universally require dogs to be leashed and under control on campground property. Typically leashes must be no longer than 6 feet, which includes retractable leashes. Owners should not allow dogs to roam or approach other campers without permission – not everyone is comfortable with dogs, and some other pets at the campground might not be friendly. Always ask before letting your dog greet a neighbor or their pet.

Never Leave Dogs Unattended: Campground rules usually state you should not leave pets unattended, even inside your RV. If you leave a dog alone in the RV and it barks constantly, or worse, if the power fails and the AC goes out on a hot day, there could be serious issues. Many campgrounds will ask you to leave if your dog is causing a noise problem or if they discover an unattended pet in distress. If you need to be away, it’s better to take your fur baby along or arrange a pet sitter. (Some campgrounds do make exceptions if the pet is quiet and the RV stays cool, but it’s always a risk and generally discouraged.)
Managing the Campsite: Set up a shaded area outside your RV (use an awning or pop-up shade, as high-elevation sun can be intense), and laying out a pet bed or mat so they don’t have to lie on hot ground or sharp pine needles. If the campground allows it, you might use a secured exercise pen or tie-out stake to give your puppy a bit of freedom outside – but always supervise them if on a tie-out (they could get tangled or have unwelcome wildlife encounters if you’re not watching).
Pet Waste and Cleanliness: Always clean up after your pet immediately! Many RV parks provide pet waste stations with bags and trash cans. Not only is it courteous, but it keeps the campground clean and prevents wildlife from being attracted. Note that in the city of Show Low, there’s even a leash law ordinance requiring dogs to be leashed except in designated dog parks and that owners must pick up waste – good practices that also apply within campgrounds and forests. Keeping your site clean of food scraps is also important. Don’t leave pet food or scraps out in a bowl unattended, especially overnight (this can attract raccoons or skunks to your campsite).
Leave No Trace: This is a principles with pets: pack out dog waste or bury it in a small hole 6-8 inches deep and away from water sources if in the backcountry. This keeps the wilderness clean and prevents other animals from digging it up.
Hiking with 4-legged friends

Hiking and Outdoor Activities

Leash Up on the Trails: Most trails around Show Low and the White Mountains are dog-friendly as long as your dog is leashed. In fact, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest trails welcome leashed dogs. Leash policies: in general, pets must be on leash in developed recreation areas and on popular trails. Remote parts of the forest, voice control might be acceptable, but for safety (and courtesy) it’s best to keep the leash on. This protects wildlife and ensures your dog doesn’t get lost or bother other hikers (not everyone wants an off-leash dog running up to them or chasing birds).
Trail Etiquette and Safety: Always pack enough water for your animal – a rule of thumb is they need at least 1/2 to 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight for a few hours of activity (more on hot days). Bring a collapsible bowl and take frequent water breaks, because the air is dry and pets can dehydrate quickly. Carry treats or kibble if you’ll be out all day, and maybe a small first aid kit (include paw balm and tweezers; pine needles or burrs can stick in paws). Check the weather before heading out – in summer, plan hikes for early morning to avoid afternoon heat or thunderstorms; in cooler months, be mindful of early sunsets and dropping temperatures.
Pet Friendly Trails: Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area near Show Low is great for a leisurely walk with your furry on leash; there’s a paved trail along the lake and plenty of spots to sniff around (the park requires a 6-foot leash for all pets). Another option is the Show Low Bluff Trail, a local trail in town that welcomes leashed dogs and offers nice views. For more adventurous hikes, the Apache-Sitgreaves NF has trails like the Thompson Trail (nearby in the White Mountains) which is noted as a beautiful dog-friendly hike through forests and along a stream. Use resources like AllTrails or BringFido to find trail details, but always double-check if any restrictions apply (e.g., during wildfire season some areas might close or require dogs on leash for wildlife protection).
Wildlife Encounters on Hikes: If you come across other hikers or horseback riders, step off to the side and keep your pet close to avoid spooking horses or entangling with other hikers. If you meet another dog, ask the owner before letting them greet (and only if both dogs are calm). In case of wildlife: give snakes a wide berth – back away slowly if you or your dog hears a rattlesnake rattle (they usually warn before striking). For larger animals like an elk or deer on the trail, leash and control your dog (most dogs will get excited or scared); slowly and calmly create distance. Note that it’s extremely rare to encounter a bear or mountain lion, but if you suspect one (or see tracks/scat), make noise as you hike to avoid surprising them. Carrying bear spray is a personal choice for deep-woods hikes, but most likely not necessary on popular trails. The key is keeping your dog under control so they don’t provoke wildlife.
A dog, a cat, a snake on a trail

Post-Hike Care: After hiking, check your baby for ticks (especially around ears, belly, and between toes), burrs, or sap. Clean their paws if they walked on rough terrain or got muddy. Offer them water and a cool place to rest. If it was a long hike, they might be sore – just like humans – so maybe plan a lighter activity the next day.
Lost pet in the woods: Prevention again is key: make sure your dog has up-to-date ID tags and a microchip before your trip. If your dog does go missing in the forest, act quickly. Start by searching the immediate area, calling their name (bring a favorite squeaky toy or treat bag noise that they respond to). Enlist other campers or hikers in the area to keep an eye out. Contact local authorities: in Show Low, that could be the animal control or the Navajo County sheriff’s office (which might handle search and rescue). Also notify nearby ranger stations in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest – rangers may encounter lost dogs or have reports if someone finds your pet. Social media can be surprisingly effective: post in local community groups or pages (many towns have a “Lost Pets” Facebook group). If the dog has a microchip, inform the microchip company that the pet is lost in a specific area so they flag any incoming reports. Most importantly, don’t give up too soon – dogs can survive in the wild for days. Often, staying in the area where they were lost (leaving out a worn piece of your clothing or the dog’s bed) can help, as dogs might return to a familiar scent. Preventing this scenario by using a leash or a GPS pet tracker when in unfamiliar areas is the best strategy, but having a plan to alert local officials and fellow campers will improve your chances of a happy reunion if it happens.
Lost dog found by owner
Whether you come to Show Low for a vacation, or plan on an extended visit, you are always welcome to stay at our campground, Woodside RV Resort! We allow all types of campers, furry friends, ages, and personalities!