5 Safety Tips for Taking Your Dog on a Boat

Many dogs enjoy fun in the sun just as much as you, and taking them along for a boat ride is not a bad idea. Your friends and family will probably love having your pup on board. With that in mind, safety should always come first, and you should know a few things to ensure a positive experience for everyone involved. Dive into these five safety tips for taking your dog on a boat.

Invest in a Canine Floating Life Vest

Although you might think your pup is a strong swimmer, investing in a canine floating life vest is always a good idea. Choppy waves and rough water conditions could make it difficult for your dog to stay afloat, no matter their swimming level. In addition, a properly fitted life jacket gives you something to hold onto if you need to pull your dog up and out of the water.

Take Your Dog on the Boat Before the Trip

Let your dog get acquainted with the boat before the trip. To ensure a safe and secure environment, consider taking your pup onto the boat while it’s on the trailer or dock. If your dog gets used to its surroundings before adding extra stimulation, it’ll be less likely to get overly anxious during the excursion.

Make the First Trip Short

Keeping your dog’s first boat ride short and sweet is the best way to ensure it adjusts to the motion and space restrictions. If your pup seems happy about its first ride, it’s probably safe to say it’ll enjoy longer trips. Believe it or not, dogs can get seasick just like humans, and a short trip should tell you whether your dog does. Your veterinarian may be able to prescribe medication to reduce seasickness for future trips.

Pack Plenty of Food and Water

Having fun in the sun puts your dog at risk for heatstroke and dehydration; therefore, you should bring plenty of food, treats, and fresh water. Lake or ocean water is unsafe for your dog to consume in large amounts, and providing a bowl of fresh, cool water is an excellent way to prevent drinking from the surrounding area.

Depending on how long you’ll be on the water, packing a meal for your dog may be necessary. Consider bringing along a first aid kit and a few water-friendly toys to ensure an overall positive experience.

Have a Potty Plan

If you intend to stay on the water longer than an hour or two, you need to have a potty plan for your pup. You can avoid docking to walk your dog by designating a potty area on board with puppy pads or a dog potty turf, which is absorbent artificial grass for dogs to do their business. Also, bring a few poo bags to clean up any messes on the boat.

These five safety tips for taking your dog on a boat will ensure you and your pup have a fantastic experience on the water. Check out DogGood’s dog accessory store online for all of your pup’s needs this summer.