Dogs aren’t pets to us; they’re family, so it’s only natural that we want to take our furry offspring everywhere we go, including boat rides. Bringing your dog out on your boat can enhance an already enjoyable trip. Taking your dog on the water with the rest of your pack, on the other hand, necessitates some special preparations and procedures.
Purchase a life jacket for your four-legged pal
Not only do humans require life jackets, but so does your dog! A suitable life vest is one of the most crucial things to have before boating with your dog. The capacity of vests to keep your dog upright and stable will vary based on the dog’s size and bodily condition. Before relying on the vest in an emergency, test it on your dog to ensure that it keeps them upright.
Even dogs who are strong swimmers might drown owing to choppy water or exhaustion. Before your first boat ride, ensure your dog’s life jacket fits snugly but not too tight. This one is available in a variety of sizes. Most retailer shops will know what to recommend for your puppy.
Boat/dock introduction
Introduce your dog to your dock and boat while it is docked before taking her on her first expedition. Teach her how to get on and off the boat and basic orders to keep her safe on board. Boarding ramps and ladders are especially useful for larger dogs and their owners, so make sure she knows how to use them before you set sail. Keep a fishing net on board for smaller dogs if your pet falls into the water! Help her become accustomed to the sound of your boat’s engine while sitting still to ensure she is not startled once you are out on the lake. We recommend bringing a few unique toys and treats on the boat to reassure your dog that it’s a fun, safe location.
Identification for your pet
Ensure your dog wears a harness and the ID tag is clipped directly to it. This helps to guarantee that the tag does not become entangled in anything or scratch your boat. When boating, a harness is preferable to a collar since it allows you to safely hold and hoist your dog out of the water. Never pick up your dog by his/her collar. Create a temporary ID tag with your cell phone number and local information if you are boating out of town.
Sunscreen and shade
Even a man’s best friend can become sunburned, especially if his fur is short. Human sunscreen is poisonous to them, so choose a formula recommended by your veterinarian. To avoid irritating his skin, pick the unscented product or neutrally scented sunscreen to protect him. Unless your dog has particularly short fur/bare spots, if the day is unusually hot, SPF 15 is typically plenty. If possible, create a shaded spot for your dog to seek cover. If your boat lacks a cabin or another covered location, take frequent shade breaks to keep him from overheating. With sunglasses for dogs that are also highly stylish, you can protect your pup’s eyes from wind debris and harmful UV rays! I personally prefer doggles(goggles for dogs) if your puppy is comfortable with them.
Water
Always keep plenty of fresh drinking water on hand for your dog in a collapsible dish that is easy to store and transport. Saltwater and/or contaminated fresh water can make your dog quite sick, so try to keep her away from it.
Potty preparation
Have lots of trash bags and paper towels on hand to clean up after your dog if he needs to use the restroom while on your boat. Alternatively, teach him to use puppy pads while on board. To help discourage him from needing to go while on board, dock on a regular basis and walk him about a pet-friendly area or one with a pet “rest stop” to allow him an opportunity to relieve himself.
Small carpet/throw rug
Because dogs absorb heat via their paw pads, keep a small carpet or throw rug nearby for her to stand on if the deck becomes too hot. A carpet/rug also gives a place for your dog to lay or stand without slipping and sliding around. All of the movement on a boat might make a dog uncomfortable, and a safe location to lie down can help to calm them down. A waterproof travel bed has a non-skid bottom that will keep it in position while the boat is moving, allowing your dog to relax and enjoy the voyage.
Overboard, dog!
Having a rescue plan for your dog in case he goes overboard before it becomes a problem is a must. Assign each person a distinct role and position in case this occurs. If your boat has an outboard motor, which most small boats do, make sure everyone on board understands that if your dog falls into the water suddenly, TURN OFF THE ENGINE IMMEDIATELY. Keep a leash on board at all times.
Keep his first expedition brief
To see how he likes it and to prevent overwhelming him, keep your dog’s first boating adventure brief. If everything works well, gradually increase your time out. A brief maiden journey can also assist you in determining whether your dog is susceptible to seasickness.
Going fishing
If you intend to make your dog your new fishing companion, make sure that all fishing lures, bait, and hooks are carefully kept away.
First aid kit
Include information such as a photo of your dog in case he goes missing, the phone numbers for your doctor and poison control, and critical medical documents such as shot records in your dog’s first aid bag. The majority of the medical supplies in a pet’s kit are the same as those in a human’s kit. A muzzle, extra leash, Dramamine in case your dog is prone to get motion sickness, hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting if necessary, gauze, medical tape(preferably non-stick), Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) in case of an allergic response, and either a glucose paste or corn syrup if your dog is diabetic are all essentials. A few towels or blankets are also useful to have on hand. Last but not least, have some ice packs to prevent overheating.
Words from Bone2Travel
Check your local regulations about sailing with pets. Laws differ by state. Check and make sure your state/region doesn’t have any restrictions on carrying pets on board.
You’re all set to shove off! Bring your canine companion and have a fantastic time!