Boating With Dogs: On the Water with Man’s Best Friend

Imagine a beautiful day out on the water with your very best four-legged friend. Everything’s made better when you have your furriest buddy along for the ride! Boating with dogs can either be very stressful or very fun depending on your level of preparation. Make sure you’re ready for an outing with your best buddy by thinking about the following:

Plan ahead.
If this will be your first time boating with Fido, make sure you do your research before they ever get their feet wet. Check local laws about boating with dogs and have a plan for if they decide they want to go swimming without your permission. Take an initial trip that’s short so your pup can get acquainted with the boat and use this opportunity to train them to use a pee-pee pad. Don’t forget to bring poo bags, just as you would whenever you take your dog anywhere else. You may also want to pack a cleanup solution in case there’s a wee accident.

Have the right supplies.
Make sure your furry friend wears a life jacket and make room in your first-aid kit for dog-related items. For instance, short-haired dogs need sunscreen just like their two-legged friends!

Be aware.
When it comes time to set sail, make sure to pay attention to your dog’s needs. Don’t let them drink water from the lake or the ocean; they need to stay properly hydrated while out in the sun. Carry them on board for safety and use common sense. Just as you would pay attention to the wind and other boats, also keep on the lookout for your dog. Make sure they can’t get into bait or fish hooks. Basically, use common sense!

If you have any questions about dogs or if you want to bring your furry friend in to say hello, give us a call at (843) 556-2550 or visit us at 2445 Savannah Highway in Charleston.