Every dog is different, which is why we do not offer cookie-cutter packages. A Great Dane requires a completely different layout than a pair of small terriers. During your consultation, we map out the specific features that will make your trips easier. Here are the custom integrations we build most often for dog owners:

Custom-Built Dog Crates and Sleeping Dens

A loose dog in a moving vehicle is a major safety hazard for both the pet and the passengers. To solve this, we design custom dog crates and sleeping dens directly into the van’s cabinetry, most often utilizing the open “garage” space beneath the rear platform bed. These dens are built with secure latching gates, structural framing, and custom-cut ventilation panels to ensure constant airflow.

By placing the crate under the bed or integrated into the bench seats, we keep your dog safe while keeping the central aisle clear. The den can be finished with soft, removable, and washable padding, giving your dog a familiar, enclosed space to relax after a long day of outdoor exploration.

Smart Climate Control and Temperature Monitoring

Canada’s extreme weather means cabin temperatures can change rapidly. To keep your pet safe when you need to step away from the van for a meal or a grocery run, we install robust climate systems that operate completely off-grid. A fuel-fired heater tapped directly into the vehicle’s fuel tank keeps the van warm during freezing winter nights without running the engine.

To combat hot summer weather, we integrate high-efficiency, low-voltage air conditioning (A/C) units that run directly off the van’s off-grid lithium battery system. This is paired with high-flow roof vent fans to ensure constant fresh air circulation. We couple these heating and air conditioning systems with smart, cellular-enabled temperature monitors that sync to your smartphone. If the cabin temperature rises above or drops below pre-set limits, you receive an immediate alert, giving you peace of mind when leaving your dog behind.

Rear-Door Pet Wash and Spray Stations

One of the greatest challenges of van life with a dog is keeping the interior clean after a wet, muddy hike. To prevent dirt from being tracked onto your upholstery and bedding, we build exterior washdown stations directly inside the rear doors. This system utilizes the van’s onboard fresh water tank and a high-pressure spray nozzle to rinse off muddy paws, dirty bellies, and sandy coats before your dog ever steps inside.

For cold weather, we can integrate a hydronic heating system to provide warm water for the spray station. This ensures a post-hike rinse is comfortable even during late autumn or early spring trips. The sprayer also doubles as a convenient tool for cleaning boots, bikes, and dirty gear.

Slide-Out Feeding Drawers and Built-In Bowls

Loose food and water bowls are easily flipped, stepped on, or spilled while driving. We solve this by building custom slide-out feeding drawers into the toe-kicks of the lower cabinets. These drawers feature recessed cutouts that hold stainless steel food and water bowls securely in place.

At dinner time, simply slide the drawer out, then slide it back flush with the cabinetry when finished. For water, we can install splash-resistant bowls that prevent sloshing while in motion, ensuring your pet has hydration on long drives without creating a mess on your floors.

Durable, Scratch-Resistant Flooring

Camper van floors take a beating from mud, sand, water, and sharp dog claws. Standard residential flooring materials like laminate or cheap vinyl can scratch, warp, or bubble when exposed to constant moisture. We use only marine-grade woven vinyl or heavy-duty coin-grip rubber flooring in our pet-friendly builds.

These materials are waterproof, slip-resistant, and scratch-proof. Any mud or dirt brought inside can be swept or mopped out in seconds. The flooring is run up the walls slightly or sealed with high-grade silicone to prevent moisture from seeping into the subfloor, protecting the structure of your van.

Safety Anchors and Harness Tie-Downs

For owners who prefer not to use a crate, we install heavy-duty L-track cargo rails or flush-mounted D-rings directly into the structural members of the van floor and walls. These tie-down points allow you to secure your dog’s travel harness with a crash-tested safety tether while the vehicle is in motion.

This setup gives your dog the freedom to lie down comfortably on their favorite dog bed in the living area while ensuring they are safely restrained in the event of sudden braking or a collision. The L-track system is highly adjustable, allowing you to reposition the attachment points as your travel gear or seating configurations change over time.

Collapsible Dog Ramps and Safety Steps

Getting in and out of a high-roof cargo van can be difficult for senior dogs, heavy breeds, or pets with joint issues. The constant impact of jumping down from a side door can cause long-term strain on a dog’s shoulders and hips. To prevent injuries, we design custom storage cubbies specifically sized to hold lightweight, telescoping, or folding dog ramps.

For side-door entry, we can also build wider, lower-profile safety steps integrated into the cabinetry that make the transition into the living space much gentler for your pet. This simple addition ensures that your dog can continue to join you on road trips comfortably as they age.