Pets are part of the family, and family fun is a big reason why many of us love boating in the first place. So taking Bucky along for a day’s expedition on the lake is natural. And most dogs (cats not so much) take naturally to the water.
But there are a few things to think about before you take Bucky out boating. Most of them are just common sense, but it’s good to think about these tips for boating with pets.
Invest in a dog life jacket.
We are all trained that everyone on a boat should have a PFD handy if not worn at all times. Even if your dog is an American Water Spaniel or a Chesapeake Bay Retriever, who are better swimmers than the fish, it makes sense to outfit your dog with his own life jacket. Things can happen on the water and protecting your dog leads to your peace of mind.
Canine jackets are made of high-flotation neoprene, feature reflective trim, rescue handles and leash rings. You can find them at marine stores, or websites like Outward Hound, Overton’s, L.L. Bean and SwimOutlet.
Introduce your dog to the boat before leaving shore.
If it’s the first time you’re bringing your pet onboard your boat, spend a few minutes on shore to let the dog get familiar with your boat. Let him/her check out the boat while it’s not underway…sniffing around in all the corners and learning where they can sit, stand and lie down. Turn on the engines and get them familiar with the sound. This will reduce anxiety in the dog and, hopefully, in you, too!
This small step can go a long way in making boating with pets a more relaxing experience for everyone.
Update the first aid kit.
You should, of course, always have a first aid kit on board. If your pet becomes a frequent traveler on the boat, it’s a good idea to add a few items for him/her. In case the dog steps on something sharp, have some gauze pads, antiseptic wipes, hydrogen peroxide, ear-cleaning solution and needle-nose pliers. All could come in handy.
Also, be aware that just like humans, some animals can get seasick! Check with your vet if Bucky gets green during a trip–there are several kinds of pet medications to help.
Keep them hydrated.
Pets can’t open the cooler and take out a cool drink when they get hot. So make sure you have plenty of fresh water on board, and a doggie dish for Bucky to slurp from.
And even though most of us here in Colorado boat on fresh water lakes and reservoirs, it’s not a good idea to let your pet drink from the lake. There are microscopic things that might not agree with Bucky’s belly.
Part of safe and happy boating with pets means thinking ahead about hydration and comfort.
Yes, the dog needs sunscreen too!
Especially dogs with short hair or light skin, such as white boxers. SPF-15 is a good choice for most dogs. Noses and ears are vulnerable spots.
There are several sunscreen brands for pets: look for Epi-Pet, Emmy’s or Petkin brands.
And keep in mind that a dog’s paws can be susceptible to hot surfaces, both on your boat and on docks and asphalt surfaces baking in the hot summer sun.
Potty time
The general principle is: when a dog’s gotta go, a dog’s gonna go! Try to get your dog to go before heading out on the boat, and try not to let hours pass before you can let them relieve themselves.
You can try packing puppy training pads onboard, but that may not always work perfectly, especially for older dogs who will likely look at you with that “really?” look.
Do pack pet waste bags, and perhaps some extra paper towels and odor neutralizer. Picking up after Bucky is the responsible thing to do!
Other than that, boating with pets can be a blast to have along for an afternoon on the water. They’ll chase balls and other floating things for hours, enjoy the rush of wind through their ears and generally add to your boating enjoyment!
Good boy!
