I'm new to this site also, and am doing research into buying an RV for the first time, too. I don't know too much about motorhomes yet, but I do know about transporting dogs, as my ex and I used to show dogs. Always, Always, Always have your dogs in kennels which are secure (preferably by seatbelts) when driving them anywhere, in any vehicle, even for short trips. A dog's kennel is its seatbelt, simple as that. Do you drive without buckling up?
I'm a retired paramedic who ran 911 calls for 25 years. I've been to thousands of accident scenes, some including RV's with fatalities. All passengers - two legged and four legged - should always be secured with belts when riding in any vehicle; this is just common sense.
Always plan on what would happen if you were involved in a wreck before you depart. Loose objects can become flying deadly projectiles in an
accident, etc etc etc.
OK, off my soapbox! But buckle up - in a kennel - your four legged love ones!