New Experiences: 5 Tips for Boating with Your Dog

As much fun as it is to take your dog on a boat with you, you have to be very careful. You can talk to other human passengers about boat safety, but you cannot force your dog to avoid certain areas or protect themselves from danger. They may have to learn from scratch, like how to swim and how to enter and exit the vessel easily. Moreover, you have to think about including things like dog bathroom breaks, where they can get clean water and shady spots from the sun. This article highlights some tips for a safe, fun, and memorable experience on the water with your furry friend.

Visit the Boat in Advance

First and foremost, before going anywhere with your dog, it is the responsibility of the owner to make sure that the dog knows basic commands and will listen to you. Having this established can be the difference between an adventure on a boat going well or being a disaster. Obedient dogs are safer for themselves and for everyone around them!

It's best to introduce your dog to the boat before the trip. Introduce your pet slowly: first, bring them to the dock, then put them on the boat and turn on the motor to get them used to the sound and vibration. Allow them to explore and sniff around to become familiar with the new setting. Offer treats and positive reinforcement to create a pleasant association with the boat.

Gradually progress to short trips, ideally in calm waters, to help your dog get used to the boat's motion. Watch for signs of anxiety, such as excessive panting, whining, or shaking, and provide comfort and reassurance. Over time, your dog will likely become more comfortable and confident on the boat.

Take Life Jackets

While most people think that all dogs are good swimmers, that's not true at all. In addition, even the best swimmers can sometimes get into trouble - for example, if they are tired, the water is too cold, or the waves are too strong. A life jacket to give your pet extra buoyancy should have "lifting handles" that you can use to pull your dog back on board. You should also be sure to try on the life jacket before you buy it. Unlike human-personalized rescue inflatables, there are no rules for dog life jackets, so you need to make sure that the vest fits your dog's size and that they are comfortable in it.

Pack Other Essentials

Packing for a day on the water is always exciting, but when preparing to take your dog with you, some things are very important:

• Fresh Water and Bowl: They can also be dehydrated, this is common mostly during a very hot day. Always ensure that your dog gets enough water to drink, or you carry a bowl for your dog to drink from. Do not let them drink seawater or lake water as it will upset their stomach or affect them in other ways. 
• Dog-Friendly Sunscreen: Just like humans, dogs can also develop sunburn, especially those with short coated or white or cream-colored coats. Put sunscreen on the parts of the dog that are prone to sunburn, such as the nose, the ears, and other extremities. 
• First-Aid Kit: When owning a pet dog, it would be advantageous to have a first-aid kit since accidents do happen, especially a first-aid kit specifically for dogs. This will comprise such items as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any medicines which your dog might require. 

Plan for Potty Breaks 

Very similar to people, dogs also need bathroom breaks. These stops are crucial when boating with a dog. If you’re navigating a large boat with pet-friendly zones, ensure your dog understands where it is allowed to go. For smaller boats or one-day cruising, make sure to take a break on the shore where the dog can take a rest comfortably. You can also carry a portable dog toilet or a pad for emergencies in case you realize that your dog needs to go when you are far from the areas you could stop at. 

Traveling Away from Home

Make sure to do your research before deciding to go anywhere. Not all places are dog-friendly. Luckily, there are many resources online nowadays that can point you in the right direction! Great places to start out boating with your dog can be lakes! There are a few good lakes across the U.S. that encourage people to bring their pets. You can head to these lakes and then be able to visit the top 10 pet-friendly cities around the world. Other places outside of the U.S., such as in the Netherlands, can be dog-friendly as well as include boating activities. Canal cruises are a relaxing and scenic way to experience the city's iconic architecture and lively Amsterdam neighborhoods, allowing both humans and dogs to relax and enjoy the sights together. Buying combo tickets Amsterdam, which often includes various modes of transportation, event passes, and pet-friendly accommodations. 

Take Care of Your Dog

Just like going to a new location with your dog, sailing in the water poses some challenges concerning your pet’s welfare. Keep a list of things in mind when boating with dogs. You should make sure your dog doesn’t overheat, especially on bright sunny days. Make sure there is a location on that boat where they can avoid the sun and not burn their paws from a boat’s hot surface. Watch for signs of seasickness, like excessive drooling, as well as lethargy and vomiting. Have a plan in place to help your dog in these medical cases. Don't let your dog drink water from the ocean, river, or lake, as it may be contaminated or contain bacteria. Finally, always keep in mind that you have a dog on the boat. If your boat is large, don't let your dog get too far away from you, and if you stop at a dock or shoreline, make sure that they are on a leash and being watched. 

-----

Author Bio

Alyse Falk is a freelance writer with experience in digital marketing, technologies, content marketing, marketing trends, and branding strategies. Alyse also writes for several reputable sites where she shares her hints for creating content. She can be contacted at [email protected].