Last Updated on 23 February, 2026 by Robyn Dockendorf

Van life with dogs is an incredible adventure, but what happens when they get sick or injured while you’re on the road? Finding dog veterinary care can be challenging when constantly moving from place to place, especially in rural or unfamiliar areas.

In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about finding a vet while traveling (in a van OR RV!), from telehealth options to emergency vet care and mobile veterinary services.

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Preparing for Vet Care Before You Hit the Road

Before setting off on your journey, taking a few proactive steps can make a huge difference in handling any pet health issues on the road. 

Start by scheduling a wellness exam with your primary vet to ensure your pet is in good health for travel. During this visit, ask for digital copies of their medical records—having these on hand will make it easier if you need to visit another veterinarian while away. 

Keeping vaccinations up to date is also really important, as some states and campgrounds require proof of rabies vaccination.

A well-stocked pet first aid kit is another must-have when you van life with dogs. Something like the Adventure Medical Kits Adventure Dog Series Trail Dog First Aid Kit for Dogs includes essential items like gauze, antiseptic wipes, bandages, tweezers, and pet-safe pain relief to handle minor injuries on the go. If you’d rather put your pet’s first-aid kit together yourself, check out our guide on building a DIY Dog First Aid Kit here!

Next, if you haven’t already, consider investing in pet insurance. Unexpected medical emergencies can be expensive, and the right plan can help cover a major portion of the vet bill.

Lastly, do some research on pet-friendly emergency resources before you leave. Save the contact information for 24-hour emergency vets along your route, and keep pet poison control numbers handy in your phone. 

How to Find a Veterinarian While You Van Life With Dogs

If your pet gets sick or injured while you’re on the road, it’s important to find a reliable veterinarian in the area as soon as possible. Thankfully, there are several ways to locate a vet clinic or hospital. 

One of the easiest methods is to use Google Maps or Yelp. Simply search for “veterinarian near me” and browse through reviews from other pet owners to help you choose a clinic with a good reputation. 

Websites like Pet Help Finder and Vet Locator can help you quickly search for a nearby vet by entering a zip code. These tools are especially helpful if you’re in an area where you don’t know the local vets.

For those traveling in RVs or vans, joining Facebook groups or other online forums dedicated to full-time travelers can be a great resource. Many members share pet-friendly resources, including recommendations for trusted vets on the road.

Another tip is to look for AAHA-accredited animal hospitals. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) ensures that hospitals meet high standards of veterinary care. 

You can use their hospital locator tool to find an accredited facility nearby, giving you peace of mind knowing your pet will receive quality care.

Telehealth for Pets: Virtual Vet Visits on the Road

If you’re far from a clinic, pet telehealth can be a quick and affordable solution for minor issues like mild stomach upset, allergies, or behavioral questions.

• How it works: You schedule a video call with a vet, describe your pet’s symptoms, and get advice on whether a clinic visit is necessary.
• Best Telehealth Services for Travelers
  Vetster – 24/7 video consultations with licensed vets.
  Pawp – Unlimited chat with a veterinarian or vet nurse for a flat monthly fee.
  AirVet – Instant access to a veterinarian via video call.

Things to Keep in Mind

While telehealth is a great option for many situations, there are some limitations. Depending on the state you’re in, veterinarians may not be able to prescribe medications without an in-person exam. It’s always important to check the regulations in your location.

While pet telehealth is super convenient for getting quick advice while you van life with dogs, it’s not a replacement for an in-person visit with your vet. A hands-on exam lets the vet check your pet’s overall health, spot any subtle issues, and run tests that might not be possible over a video call. 

As a veterinarian, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to physically examine a pet to get a full picture of their health. For more serious or urgent concerns, it’s usually best to see a vet in person to make sure your pet gets the right care.

Telehealth for pets can be a lifesaver when you’re on the go, ensuring that your pet gets the care they need, even when you’re far from home.

Emergency Veterinary Care While Traveling

If your pet has a medical emergency while traveling, you need to act quickly. Start by finding the nearest emergency vet. Many bigger cities have 24-hour animal hospitals, but in smaller towns, options may be limited. 

Call Ahead

Before heading to a clinic, always call ahead to make sure they’re open and able to take your pet. Some ER vet clinics may be on pause or have limited staffing or hours, and you don’t want to waste time going somewhere that can’t help.

Transportation

Transporting your pet safely is just as important as getting them to the right facility. If they’re hurt, move them carefully so you don’t injure them further. Cats and small dogs should go in a carrier, while larger dogs may need a blanket or towel to help lift them. 

Be careful—pets in pain might snap or bite, even if they’re normally friendly. If needed, you can use a muzzle to keep everyone safe.

Basic First Aid

If you’re far from a vet, knowing some basic first aid can help. If your pet is bleeding, press a clean cloth on the wound to slow it down. Keep them warm and calm to prevent shock, and if they stop breathing, you may need to do CPR. 

Warning Signs of an Emergency

Watch for warning signs like pale gums, trouble breathing, or not responding to you, as these can mean the situation is serious.

It’s always a good idea to keep a pet first aid kit in your car. Having that and a list of emergency numbers can save time and make a big difference. 

Signs Your Pet Needs Emergency Care:

• Difficulty breathing
• Uncontrollable vomiting or diarrhea
• Seizures or collapse
• Major wounds or broken bones
• Ingestion of toxins (chocolate, antifreeze, medications, etc.)

Essential Resources For Pet Emergencies

📌Save These Resources

Pet poison hotlines can help if your pet eats something toxic. I usually recommend the ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) and Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) for quick access to expert advice in case of accidental ingestion. 

The Pet First Aid App by the American Red Cross offers step-by-step guidance for handling pet emergencies, featuring videos and quizzes to help you learn and prepare for urgent situations. It is available for iOS and Android devices.

When your pet is injured, staying calm is important—your pet can pick up on your emotions, and a steady, reassuring presence will help keep them as comfortable as possible while you assess the situation and seek veterinary care.

Mobile Vets Are An Easy Option for RV Travelers

Did you know some vets make house calls to RVs?

Mobile veterinarians provide a convenient way to access veterinary care when you van life with dogs, especially for pet owners who have busy schedules, anxious pets, or limited transportation options. 

These professionals bring veterinary services directly to your home, reducing the stress of travel for both you and your pet. 

Mobile vets can perform routine wellness exams, administer vaccinations, and provide preventive care like flea, tick, and heartworm treatments. They can also diagnose and treat minor illnesses such as ear infections, skin conditions, and mild gastrointestinal issues. 

What Mobile Vets Offer

Many vets offer feline veterinary care using Fear-Free™ methods, which can be a real game-changer for cats who get stressed during visits.

If you’re planning to van life with dogs, some mobile vets can help by offering health certificate services, making sure your pet meets all the travel requirements for airlines or border crossings.

How To Find A Mobile Vet

To find a mobile vet in your area, do a quick Google search for “mobile vet near me.” You can also check the American Association of Housecall Veterinarians directory, which lists licensed professionals who offer mobile services. 

Another option is to look for pop-up veterinary clinics at pet stores, shelters, or community events, where vets often provide vaccinations and basic health services. 

Veterinary Care in Rural & Remote Areas

If you’re in a remote location with no vet for miles, here’s what you can do:

• Check with farm vets – Some large-animal vets will treat dogs and cats, especially in smaller towns.
• Contact local rescues or animal shelters – They often have partnerships with low-cost veterinary clinics, access to emergency funding for pet care, or recommendations for vets who offer sliding-scale fees.
• Use a satellite communicator – If you’re off-grid, devices like Garmin inReach can send emergency messages for help.

Keeping Your Pet Healthy on the Road

When you van life with dogs, preventative care is one of the best ways to avoid unexpected vet visits and keep your pet happy and comfortable. 

• Parasites: Make sure your pet is up to date on flea, tick, and heartworm prevention, as exposure to new environments can increase the risk of them getting worms or another type of parasite. 
• Fresh Water: Keeping fresh water readily available is also important to prevent dehydration, especially during warm weather or long travel days. 
• Paw Protection: If you’ll be walking on hot pavement, rocky trails, or rough terrain, protect your pet’s paws with booties or a pet-safe balm to prevent burns and abrasions.
• Motion Sickness: Motion sickness can also be an issue for some pets, leading to drooling, whining, restlessness, or vomiting. If your pet shows signs of nausea or distress while traveling, try adjusting the airflow in the car, taking frequent breaks, or using a well-ventilated carrier to help them feel more secure. 
• Medication: For pets with chronic health conditions, it’s always a good idea to talk to your vet before your trip. Ask about getting a few extra refills to make sure you have a good enough supply, so you’re not scrambling for your pets’ meds in an unfamiliar location. 

Final Thoughts 

Living the van life with dogs can be tricky, but with the right plan, you can make sure they get care no matter where you are.  

Being prepared will help keep your pets healthy while you explore the road together.

Have you ever needed a vet while on the road? Share your experience in the comments, and let’s help fellow pet travelers!

📌 Save this guide for future trips!

Dr. Georgina Ushi, DVM, is a veterinarian and blogger at Pet Health Love. She combines her veterinary expertise with a passion for educating pet owners about their pets’ health, offering practical advice on wellness, veterinary care, and pet safety. Through her blog, she provides easy-to-understand, vet-approved information to help pet parents make informed decisions. When she’s not working, she enjoys spending time with family, her guinea pig Rosie, and her cat Pandora. Follow her blog for trusted pet care tips and insights!