Tips for Boating with Dogs

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There’s nothing better than having your best buddy out on the water with you but be prepared to make it a safe and fun trip for your four legged friend. Here are our top 5 tips for boating with dogs.

Tip #1 – The Canine Life Jacket

Not all dogs are instinctive swimmers and those who are can also tire very easily in rough ocean conditions. A life jacket will not only serve as a flotation device but it also makes your dog much easier to see (buy bright colors) and also pick up. Most canine life jackets have handles on the top so it will be much easier to pick up a wet and tired pooch.

Tip #2 – Keep Your Dog Cool and Hydrated

It can get really hot on a boat and even hotter if they are wearing a constrictive canine life jacket. So watch their behavior. Make sure they know where their water is and do your best to prevent them from drinking lake or sea water as it could contain dangerous organisms or just upset their stomach.

Tip #3 – The Potty Break

Take plenty of waste bags, paper towels, and odor neutralizer to clean up the messes. You can almost guarantee that if you are out on the water all day at some point your pooch will need to relieve themselves and the fact they are in a new and unfamiliar environment the placement usually isn’t where you are hoping it would be.

Tip #4 – Sun Protection

Short haired breeds can get easily sunburned. Using a light SPF sunscreen with a neutral scent will help protect them from the glaring sun.

Tip #5 – Harness at Night

Keeping track of your pet after dark is really important. Harness your pet so you confine them in a safe area. You’ll sleep much better knowing you don’t have to worry about your best buddy slipping off the deck during a midnight stroll. Also, some sailors use a Mini Flasher on their pets which runs off two coin-cell batteries and will flash up to 130 hours. These lights can make your dog visible for up to a half a mile.

There’s nothing better than sharing time with your dog on the water just be prepared and make it a great experience for the both of you!

Please comment with any additional tips to help keep pooches safe on the water.