Nothing is more exhilarating than the smell of the sea and the wind in your hair as you sail carefree under a warm sun - and your dog likely feels the same way. If you're new to boating with your dog, our tips will keep you both safer and happier.
Safety is essential on a boat, and it is especially important if you take your dog with you. You can do a few simple things to ensure that your day out on the water is enjoyable for you and your pup.
Let's start with the basics of what you need to know when taking your dog boating:
Tips for Boating with Dogs
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure: offer shade and use dog-safe sunscreen on your dog, especially if they are short-haired.
- Protect paws from hot surfaces.
- Watch for signs of stress or discomfort.
- Start with shorter trips and gradually increase the duration to get your dog used to boating.
- When boarding your vessel, use ramps for larger dogs and carry smaller dogs to avoid possible injuries.
- Do not encourage your dog to drink water from the lake or sea. Freshwater lakes are often contaminated by factories and boats and contain harmful organisms, so never allow your dog to drink water from a lake. Always have fresh water available.
Dog Boating Safety Kit
The first thing to prioritize before sailing with your dog is always safety. A dog life jacket and boating kit are foundational for a dog's day on the water. Pack a Dog Boating Kit with these essentials:
- Water
- Food
- Bowls
- Waste Bags
- Pet first-aid kit
- Towels
- Flotation Devices
- Properly Fitted Life jacket
Having the necessities on board will give you peace of mind when boating with your dog and give you the tools to meet their needs. Learn more about boating with your dog by watching the video below!
The Importance of Life Jackets for Dogs
Not all dogs can swim, and those that can aren't all great swimmers. Additionally, water or weather conditions can cause problems, even for a pet that is typically a strong swimmer.
Dogs can get fatigued or disoriented, and older dogs, especially, can tire quickly. Pets with low body fat can have trouble when exposed to water for long periods. Health issues, like hip or joint problems, can also make swimming difficult for some pets.
While there are no regulations regarding life jackets for pets, a dog life jacket can help keep your pet safe while aboard your boat or around any body of water.
Pet life jackets are designed to keep animals afloat in a horizontal swimming position. They also serve as retrieval devices should your pet fall overboard.
Dog life jackets are available at most boating stores and pet shops.
- Fit: Make sure the life jacket fits securely. Measure the wearer's weight, length, and width to get the right fit. It's best to check the fit in the store before you buy.
- Lifting handles: To make retrieving your pet safer and easier.
- Comfort: Check to see where straps and buckles fall to ensure they won't cause your pet discomfort.
- Color: Choose a bright color to make spotting your dog in the water easier.
Give your pet a chance to get used to wearing its life jacket before getting on a boat. Allow your pet to practice swimming while wearing its life jacket, too.
If you find your pet enjoys boating as much as you do, a dog life jacket can provide your pet with an extra measure of safety. However, your sense of caution and common sense are still your pet's best friend.
How to Protect Your Boat When Boating With Pets
Protect your boat surfaces with pet-friendly covers or mats. Trim your dog's nails and brush them out before the boating trip.
Be Prepared And Have A Plan
Keep a close eye on your dog at all times when out boating. Follow pet policies at marinas and docks and avoid overly crowded areas. Have a plan in place for:
- When your dog needs to relieve themselves.
- If you become caught in unexpected bad weather
- If you have an emergency on board
Know Your Insurance Policy: Some boat insurance companies, like Progressive®, offer pet coverage at no additional cost if your pet is injured as a result of a covered loss while on board your vessel.
Boating With Dogs
Planning ahead can help you make the most of your boating time with your pet. Your dog will enjoy the fresh air and time spent with your family. Keeping basic safety precautions in mind can help you all have a safe and memorable day out on the water - for all the right reasons.
This article is sponsored by Progressive Insurance®
