BOATERS BLOG

The perfect day looks like clear, sunny skies and the wind rushing through your hair as you glide across the water in your boat. Although, it isn’t quite perfect unless you have your best furry companion along for the ride. Many dogs also enjoy spending the day on the water with the people they love most, and if this sounds like your pup, then why not let the wind blow through their fur, too?! Here at NBOA, we love when our doggos are on board with us but it is critical for their safety and yours to remember a few key rules. Before setting sail, review the safety checklist below to ensure everyone is prepared, comfortable, and cautious. 

Dog Safety Checklist 

1. Have a “Dog Overboard” Plan

Knowing if your dog can swim or not is vital information to know before bringing them aboard your boat or planning a day to sail with your furry pal. If your doggo is a “water dog” or loves to swim, or perhaps they’re curious and tend to explore, they may try to jump off the boat and into the water. Whether by choice or by accident, if you have a dog overboard, it is important to have a plan in place so everyone knows exactly what to do without panicking or jumping into the water themselves. Simply circle back to your pet and cut the engine. Then, call them over to you and help them back onto the boat. 

2. Invest in a Proper Lifejacket

Lifejackets are not only important for children and adults but for dogs, too. Even if your furry friend is a strong swimmer, depending on the water conditions, if they get frightened, or an injury occurs, a properly fitting lifejacket can save their life. In addition to assisting your dog in staying afloat, many lifejackets are designed with a handle on the back so you can pull your dog back on board. Like humans, make sure your dog’s lifejacket is the right size, allows for mobility, and has adequate buoyancy. Try testing out their lifejacket in calm, shallow water before relying on it during your boating trip.

3. Bring a First-Aid Kit 

You should always have a stocked first-aid kit on your boat, but be sure to add a few extra items for your furry boating pal. Experts suggest bringing antibiotic ointment for minor scrapes, gloves, and bandages made specifically for dogs and fur-covered friends. Other great items to have in your boating first-aid kit for doggos are Dramamine or other vet-recommended medication for motion sickness/seasickness, bug repellents for dogs, and ice packs. 

4. Visit the Boat with Your Pet 

Introducing your dog to your boat before leaving the dock is a smart idea since new places can be stressful for some pets. Not to mention, dogs like to check out every new space and sniff each new corner they encounter. Before you leave the dock, be sure that your fur friend is comfortable and has had a chance to get acquainted with the boat. Keep a close eye on them as you turn on the engine, so they don’t get scared and try to bolt. Then, take a few slow laps close to your dock to gauge their stress and anxiety. If your dog is too nervous, it might be best to take them back home. An anxious pup on a boat can be a significant safety hazard.

5. Keep the Trip Short 

The first few times you sail the waters with your doggo, you’ll want to keep the trips short, so they can adjust to the movements. Dogs can get seasick pretty easily, and just like humans, this can sometimes be severe. If seasickness is derailing your plans for a boating trip with your best bud, ask your veterinarian about motion sickness medications. Then, try again a few days later! 

6. Keep Your Dog Hydrated with Fresh Water

Water! Water! Water! The most important thing you can do for your pet while spending afternoons in the sun is ensuring they have plenty of fresh, clean, cool water to drink. Staying hydrated is just as critical for your dog as it is for humans to avoid dehydration and heatstroke and keep them feeling cool. Although you are surrounded by water, salt water can make dogs sick. So, be sure that you have cold bottles of fresh water to give your best bud and a bowl that won’t spill too much while on the boat. 

7. Pack Doggy Sun Protection

It can be easy to forget that under all of their fur, dogs have skin that can be susceptible to sunburns and even skin cancer. Just like humans, it is essential to apply sunscreen that is lightweight, unscented, and formulated specifically for pets. Talk to your vet if you’re unsure which sunscreen is safe for your furry friend or where you should be applying sunscreen. A general rule of thumb is to apply a thin layer where their fur may be light or skin exposed, such as their ears, bellies, and even nose.  

8. Make Them Comfortable with Shade and a Cool Place to Lay

Dogs are always looking for a cool, shady, and comfortable place to lay down, especially when outside in the sun. If your dog likes to dig outside on a sunny day, they are most likely looking for cooler ground. When spending an afternoon on a boat, it is important to ensure there is a nice place for your fur baby to chill and escape the sun’s harsh rays. Think under an awning, below deck, or beneath a seat or the console. You should also remember that some boat surfaces can quickly become very hot if the sun is beating down. Be aware of these areas that heat up fast, and cover them with a towel or bring a cooling pad to help protect your pup’s footpads. 

9. Have Steps Ready 

Getting on and off the boat may seem easy to us, but it could be a little scary and a bit harder for dogs. To ensure their safety, having a set of steps or a ramp for them to use will make boarding and deboarding the boat a seamless process. This will also help to teach your dog that this is the proper way to get off a boat rather than jumping in the water. 

10. Don’t Forget Their Leash

Having a leash handy while boating with your dog is important for bathroom breaks on land, unexpected stops, or if your dog is eager to jump ship or spies another dog on another boat. While using the leash on the boat is a good idea, if you plan to let your pup roam on its own, then be sure to remove their leash. The last thing you want is the leash to get tangled around equipment, gear, or the boat itself, resulting in a detrimental accident. 

11. Use Your Noggin

One of the best safety tips for boating with furry friends is using your noggin, being wise, and staying one step ahead of your pup. Always keep your eyes on them and never leave them on the boat alone. There are many hazardous areas on a boat, and your dog is likely to want to explore them all. To prevent injuries, keep an eye out for these areas, block off what you can, beware of slippery spots, know where your dog is at all times, and never go boating with your furry friend alone. 

A day on the water with your best doggo is truly amazing when done correctly. Use these safety guidelines and consult your vet fur further tips and signs your dog might be in distress. Then, head over to nboat.com to make sure you have the most ideal boat insurance and marine financing plan on the market. 

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