Ensuring a Fun and Secure Boating Experience for Man’s Best Friend

Having spent my entire life working at a marina, I have witnessed countless dogs relishing the joys of boating. However, it is crucial to recognize that even the most enjoyable outings can turn into tragic events if proper precautions are not taken. Dogs are inherently curious and impulsive creatures, which is why it is essential to plan and prioritize their safety. I feel so strongly about this topic I created a free safety guide at boaterdog.com along with a one-page flyer marinas can provide to boaters with dogs.

Here are my top seven safety tips for boating with dogs:

Providing Shade and a Chill Pad: When embarking on a boating adventure with your furry friend, it is crucial to create a comfortable and cool environment on the boat. Dogs can easily overheat in direct sunlight, leading to heatstroke or exhaustion. To mitigate this risk, ensure there is ample shade available, such as a canopy or umbrella, to provide relief from the scorching sun. Additionally, consider placing a chill pad or a cooling mat on the boat to offer a refreshing spot for a dog to relax.

Ample Leash Length: One common mishap that can result in a tragic outcome is when dogs are leashed on a boat without enough length to reach the water. Our marina has experienced this tragedy, along with the absolute devastation of the family who lost their pup. Dogs are naturally drawn to water and may instinctively jump after ducks or other animals they spot. To prevent accidents, always ensure that dogs have enough leash length to safely reach the water, allowing them to enjoy their natural instincts without the risk of injury.

Planning Potty Breaks: Just like humans, dogs need regular potty breaks, even while on a boat. Plan and identify suitable locations along your boating route. Ensure that these spots are accessible and safe for both you and your dog. Bringing along waste disposal bags is essential to maintain cleanliness and preserve the environment.

Watching for Hot Surfaces: Boating often involves docking at various locations, some of which may have hot surfaces, such as docks or boat decks. Remember that dogs’ paws are sensitive and can burn easily on scorching surfaces. Before allowing your dog to step onto any potentially hot surface, check the temperature with your hand. If it feels too hot for you, it is undoubtedly too hot for a furry companion. Marinas should recommend that boaters have alternatives, such as mats or booties, to protect your dog’s paws from burns.

Recognizing Signs of Heat Stroke: Heat stroke can be life-threatening for dogs, particularly in hot and humid environments. Understanding the signs of heat stroke is crucial for prompt action. Symptoms may include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting or collapse. If boaters or marina staff observe any of these signs, immediately move the dog to a shaded and cool area, offer fresh water and wet its body with cool (not cold) water. Contact a veterinarian for further guidance and assistance.

Life Jackets and a Plan for Reboarding: Accidental falls overboard can happen, even to the most careful pet owners. It is recommended that boaters prepare for such situations by training their dogs to respond to commands and having a plan in place to retrieve them swiftly. A dog life jacket will have a handle on top, but for large dogs, a dog ladder is a great investment. If marinas want to have some dog life vests on hand for boaters, consider bright colors. Bright colors will be more noticeable to boaters and marina staff should a dog fall overboard.

Bringing Fresh Water: Boating adventures can be dehydrating for both humans and dogs. Ensure that boaters bring an adequate supply of fresh water for their furry friends. Dogs should have access to clean water throughout the journey to stay hydrated and prevent overheating.
Dog boat safety should always be a top priority when heading for the lake. Let’s make it a safe summer for all that visit your marina!