Safety Tips

Don’t assume your pet will automatically take to boating. Dogs and cats like firm, stable surfaces, and a boat can be anything but stable.

Before you plan an outing with your pet, get the animal on board and turn on the engine to see if the sound disturbs it. Some pets couldn’t care less, while other freak out.

Take short trips at first to let your pet get acclimated to the pitch and roll of boating. Remember, if you can get seasick, so can your pets.

Make sure there are no hazardous or dangerous materials within your pet’s reach. Nosy pets in the fishing tackle can spell disaster!

In a pet store, try to find a specialized visor or brimmed cap, or sunglasses, to protect your pet’s eyes from the bright sunlight — if your pet will wear them.

Remember to check regulations in advance if you plan to venture to foreign ports with your pet. Many places have quarantine/health laws that apply to “foreign” animals.

Be mindful of your pet on hot, sunny days. Too much time in the sun and heat can cause problems such as sunstroke, cramps, and heat exhaustion.

Always take plenty of water for your pet. Dogs regulate body heat through panting, and while doing so, they lose large amounts of fluids. It is imperative to keep them hydrated. Excessive panting and drooling, and abnormally rapid pulse, are danger signs that you pet is overheating.

Find or create a shaded area on your boat where your pet can take shelter. Hopefully, there will be air movement to aid in cooling them down. Wetting their coats with fresh water can help them feel better.

Protect the pads on their paws. Dogs and cats absorb cold and heat through their pads, and can be burned by a boat’s hot fiberglass and vinyl surfaces. You may want to purchase a set of custom pad protectors.

Make sure you have an appropriately size life jacket for your dog or cat, especially if they plan on entering the water. Contrary to popular belief, not all animals naturally know how to swim.