Before hitting the high seas with your pet, be sure to take
necessary provisions to ensure that your pet's trip is a happy
and safe one.
Identification Tag: Make sure your pet has a collar with an
identification tag. Include contact information, marina address
and slip number.
Familiarization with the Boat: It is best to gradually introduce
your pet to your boat and the water. Let your pet explore the
boat while it is docked before going out on the water. Turn on
the engine and let them get used to its sound, smell, and feel
while the boat is docked. Then, take your pet out on small cruises
and gradually build up to longer cruises.
Safe & Easy Boat Access: Provide a
special
pet ramp for your pet to get on and off the boat. This
not only includes from
the dock to the boat but also from the water to the boat. Pets
weigh much more wet than dry and it can be very difficult to
lift them back into your boat after a swim.
Floatation Device: A personal
floatation device (a.k.a. life
jacket) can also ensure safety while on the water. Not all pets
can swim (including some dogs). Even if your pet is a good swimmer,
getting tossed overboard can put any animal into a panic. In
addition, your pet could suffer from exhaustion or hypothermia.
Many pets also fall into the water from the dock or while trying
to get from the dock to the boat. Having your pet equipped with
a floatation device with a lifting handle makes retrieving your
pet much easier and safer. Help your pet get used to the PFD
by first practicing at home for short periods of time. Start
by putting the PFD on your pet and let them walk around with
it on. The next step is to let your pet swim with it on for a
short period. It's a new experience for your pet so it's important
for them to get used to it before the boat trip.
Proper Hydration & Staying Cool: Pets
do not sweat, so keep an eye out for heavy panting or drool
and a rapid heart beat.
Protect pets from heat by providing some shade on the boat, providing
plenty of water and keeping the deck cool to protect paw pads.
Bring along a travel
water bowl and fresh water. It is critical
to hydrate pets before they get into the water. Otherwise, they
will drink the natural water and may get sick.
Going Potty: A big challenge of boating with your pet is making
provisions so that they can go to the bathroom. Bringing along
your cat's litter box and securing it inside the cabin is a good
solution for your feline friends. Dogs, however, are a bigger
challenge. If your boat trip does not allow for regular land
stops for your dog to do their business, then provisions must
be made so that they can relieve themselves on the boat. A portable
dog potty that simulates grass is an excellent solution. We recommend
the Pup-Head
Portable Dog Potty.
Health Records: If your boating destination is a marina or place
that you're not familiar with, be sure to bring along a copy
of vaccination and health records. Some places may require proof
of immunization before letting pets explore on land.
Call Ahead: While most marinas and parks welcome pets, there
are some that aren't pet-friendly. Be sure to call ahead before
arriving on shore.
For boating supplies for pets, visit our online store, Bonzo
Beans Pet Travel Store