Weather, welfare, hazards and emergencies

Heat is the biggest vehicle danger

A campervan can become dangerously hot even when the outside temperature feels mild. Large windows, insulated panels and limited airflow can trap heat. An open rooflight, fan or reflective blind may slow warming but cannot guarantee a safe unattended temperature. Shade also moves as the sun crosses the sky.

Avoid leaving a dog alone in the vehicle. Travel and exercise during cooler periods, park in genuine shade when occupied, provide fresh water and use airflow without creating an escape route. Cooling mats and damp towels may help comfort but are not a licence to remain in an overheating van.

Recognise heat illness

Heatstroke is an emergency. Move the dog to a cooler place, begin cooling with cool—not ice-cold—water and airflow, and contact a vet immediately for instructions while arranging urgent transport. Do not wrap the dog in wet towels, which can trap heat as they warm. Continue to follow veterinary advice even if the dog appears to improve.

• Heavy or noisy panting that does not settle.
• Excess drooling, bright red or unusually pale gums.
• Restlessness followed by weakness, confusion or poor coordination.
• Vomiting, diarrhoea, collapse or seizures.

Cold, rain and winter travel

Small, elderly, thin-coated and unwell dogs may become cold quickly, particularly after getting wet. Provide a dry insulated bed away from draughts, dry the coat thoroughly and use a well-fitted dog coat where appropriate. Do not position bedding against heaters or allow a dog to block warm-air outlets.

Road salt, grit and de-icer can irritate paws and may be harmful if licked. Rinse and dry feet after winter walks. Check the ground before stepping out of the van, especially around frozen puddles, sharp ice and hot exhaust components.

Outdoor hazards

• Livestock: use a short lead and give animals space. Follow local signs and never rely on recall around sheep or cattle.
• Cliffs and fast water: keep the dog secured where edges, tides, currents or unstable ground create risk.
• Blue-green algae: keep dogs away from suspicious blooms or scum and seek urgent veterinary help after possible exposure.
• Toxic plants and fungi: prevent scavenging and photograph anything eaten if safe to do so.
• Ticks and grass seeds: check the coat, ears, armpits, groin and paws after walks.
• Barbecues and campfires: create a dog-free zone around flames, hot fat, skewers, coals and firelighters.
• Human food and medicines: use closed cupboards and a secure bin; never assume a worktop is out of reach.

Prepare for illness or injury

Before each stay, save the nearest daytime vet and out-of-hours provider, then confirm how to reach them with a large vehicle. Keep insurance details, vaccination history, medication and a brief medical summary together. If your dog has a complex condition, ask your own vet what information another practice may need.

Phone before arriving unless the situation makes that impossible. A clinic may redirect emergencies to another site. Describe what happened, when it happened, symptoms, the dog’s weight, known conditions and anything already given. Transport an injured dog carefully; pain can make even a gentle dog fearful, so keep faces away from the mouth and use a trained muzzle only when breathing is not compromised.

If your dog goes missing

• Tell campsite staff immediately and give a clear photograph and contact number.
• Search the last known area calmly; repeated shouting and chasing can drive a frightened dog farther away.
• Leave a familiar person, bedding or scent at the pitch if safe.
• Contact the microchip database, local dog warden, nearby vets and relevant rescue organisations.
• Use local online groups carefully without publishing information that could help someone falsely claim the dog.
• Keep one phone available and charged, and update helpers as soon as the dog is found.