Tips for Boating with Dogs

Some Safety Items to Think About

Dogs usually like water. Som­e breeds, like Labrador retrievers, are traditional boat dogs. But that doesn't mean you can take them on boats without considering their safety and well-being.

Many dog owners assume their pets can swim, but a short doggy paddle in the pond is a far cry from swimming through strong currents in open waters. Your dog may not be strong enough or fast enough to swim alongside your boat. Leaner dogs may struggle more, since fat is more buoyant than muscle [source: NRS]. Short-legged breeds can also have problems swimming.

Some dogs can't wait to get into the water. That makes them great boating companions, but those waterlogged pups can also pose safety risks. Make sure your dog is securely leashed when you first get on board [source: Animal Planet]. The other end of the leash should be in your hand, not tied to the boat. The dog should know you're in control and that you're close by. Once you've made all the necessary preparations for departure from the dock, you can reward your dog with a swim.

PFD'S (Personal Flotation Device) ( As Pictured Above)

People are not the only beings who should wear a PDF (or life jacket) while boating. You wouldn't want anything to happen to your furry dog companion, would you? Don't assume all dogs can swim, because they can't. And those that can swim may not be great swimmers. If your dog falls overboard, will he/she be able to avoid exhaustion or hypothermia before they can be retrieved?

Believe it or not, PFD's are made just for dogs and may be purchased all the major marine vendors. Make sure the PFD fits securely and allow your dog to practice swimming while wearing it. If your dog has never worn a PFD they may be resistant to it at first. Give them time to get acquainted with it before actually getting on the boat.

FRESH DRINKING WATER AND FOOD

Always have enough fresh drinking water available for your dog. Canines lose fair amounts of body fluid when they pant, so be sure to keep them hydrated.

While moving and bouncing boats may not be the most practical place for a dog bowl, an alternative it to allow your dog to drink out of a sports bottle, which are less messy and you can squirt water right into their mouth. Don't be afraid to force your dog to drink water. Think how much better fluids make you feel on a hot day out on the water.

Bring more water than you think you'll need, just in case. Chances are that you and your dog will be out in the sun more than either one of you is used to.

SUN AND HEAT

Excessive sun exposure can cause heat problems for animals. Just as with humans, they include sun stroke, heat cramps, and heat exhaustion.

Providing a shaded are for your pet is a good idea. Again, give them plenty of water. Let them take a dip in the water to cool them down if necessary.

Boat surfaces, such as fiberglass, can get extremely hot in the sun. Dogs absorb heat through the pads on their feet so be sure to protect them.

RELIEVING THEIR BLADDER

If your boat surface allows, try to train your dog to go to the bathroom in a specific spot. This eliminates stepping in surprises and you can easily wipe it clean.

Obviously, if your boat flooring is carpet the first suggestion isn't ideal. If this is the case, be sure to allow your dog to go ashore so they can do their business. Don't forget to pick up behind your dog and properly dispose of the waste products.

Your dog probably won't get it right every time. You already know your dog's warning signs, so accompany it as you would on a walk and clean up any messes.

THE INEXPERIENCED BOATING DOG

If you've never brought your dog out on a boat, don't assume they will enjoy boating. They often prefer still and stable surfaces. A day or so before you plan on taking your dog boating, allow them to get acquainted with the boat while it is still on the trailer or at dock. This is also a good time to let them wear their PFD for the first time. Your next step is to crank the engine since it may be an unfamiliar sound to your dog.

Make your first outing on the water a short one just to allow your pet to get acclimated to boat movement. Humans get seasick so there is no reason to think your pet will not do the same.

Boating can be hazardous for pets. A few safety pointers to keep in mind:

• Keep fishin­g gear contained and out of your pet's reach. Dogs and cats have been known to get hooked. If that happens, don't try to remove the hook yourself. Keep the dog calm. Do what you can to lighten or stabilize the hook's weight, then get to a vet as quickly as possible.
• Keep an eye on your pet at all times, both on the water and on shore.
• Even though boating is fun, don't forget to enforce discipline. Your dog should know it can only go in the water when you say so.
• You must monitor the deck's temperature at all times. Cats and dogs can burn their paw pads. You might want to have protective paw shoes for your pets.
• Remember that pets can lose their footing on a wet deck.
• If your trip also involves camping, be vigilant about ticks. Pets are more vulnerable to Lyme disease than humans are.
• If you're planning to spend time on a beach, look for debris on the sand. Sharp objects, crabs and jellyfish can all be hazardous to a curious pet. Have a first aid kit with tweezers on hand.
• Keep sunscreen (at least SPF 15) on hand. Pets can get sunburned, just as people can [source: NRS]. Consider buying a lightweight sun-proof jacket for breeds with very short hair. At the very least, make sure your pet's water dish is in a shaded area, so your pet has a reason to get out of the sun periodically.
• Never tie your pet to your boat. If you encounter rough waters, or the boat turns over, your pet won't be able to swim to safety. Use a carrier or harness to confine your pet.
• Know the signs of seasickness: They are disorientation, excessive salivation and apathy
• Keep a fishing net handy to rescue pets that have fallen overboard.
• Doggie snacks. You should always have treats handy to reward your dog's good behavior.
• A carrier, harness or leash. Even at a dock, you have to comply with local leash laws.
• Transportation. You'll need an easy way to help your dog get out of the water and on board -- either a dog ladder or a dog ramp. A dog ramp is a collapsible floating ramp that you attach to the deck; it creates a slope that mimics the shoreline. Older or overweight dogs may prefer ramps.
• Proper paperwork. You'll need up-to-date papers and vaccination records, especially if you plan to cross state or national borders.

Boating with pets takes patience and preparation. But when you and your best friend are out on the water, you'll be glad you did.