Top 5 Pet Boating Blunders and How to Avoid Them

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

Even the savviest of land-lubbers can make some bone-headed mistakes when it comes to our pets. Our friends at BoatUS share some tips to help keep you and your pet safe while out boating.

The staff at Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) have likely seen it all when it comes to boating incidents with pets, and they’ve lived to tell about it! And although they may know a thing or two about boating, it doesn’t mean they haven’t had to learn the hard way. Several members of BoatUS were kind enough to share their summer boating experiences – and in doing so, give some tips on what to do (or NOT) when taking your furry (or reptilian!) friend on an outing!

ADVERTISEMENT

1. Be sure your pet can swim before taking him or her on board.

“As someone who has had to haul a Golden Retriever onto the swim step of a large motorboat, I’d suggest making sure the dog can swim before coming aboard the boat.” –Kerry

Related:Why Your Dog Needs A Life Jacket

2. Remember that animals can suffer from the effects of engine fumes and can become seasick.

“Engine fumes and seasickness can affect pets, too. Thank goodness for snap-out washable boat carpets! I try to ensure the dog is not in an enclosed space, and can see the horizon and I avoid having him sit aft where engine fumes can backdraft onto the cockpit floor. Boaters should also have a CO (carbon monoxide) alarm in the cabin regardless.”–Jerry

3. Be sure you have an emergency retrieval plan.

“Cat lovers suggest hanging indoor/outdoor carpet or rope over the transom so cats can climb back aboard if they fall overboard. I once tried to dry out a wet cat with a hair dryer and it didn’t go so well. While a few cats don’t mind loud noises and may even let you vacuum them, a soft towel or chamois is better for drying off your little Lion King.”–Ted

Related:Why do cats hate water?

4) Make a boat hook part of your emergency retrieval plan.

“I always keep a boat hook handy for retrieving just in case. It’s also easier to grab a dog when he’s wearing his lifejacket, and you can lift from the handle on his back.”–Claire in BoatUS Publications

5) Boat insurance may be needed.

“In the BoatUS Marine Insurance Program’s Claims Department we recently had a claim on an iguana bite that necessitated nose reconstruction. The message? Don’t tick off the iguana.”–Kerry

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

Adoptable Dog Of The Week – Chipper

Chipper is a chip off the old block – which makes him a perfect pooch to spotlight as our Adoptable Dog of the Week! He is an adult male Silky Terrier…
Hygenhund

The Hygenhund is a medium-sized breed with the typical hound appearance - he''s lithe, muscular, and active, making him a wonderful hunting dog.
Alusky

The Alusky is a cross between a purebred Siberian Husky and Alaskan Malamute. These dogs are charming, loyal, loving, outgoing, and playful.
Guppy

One of the most commonly available species of freshwater aquarium fish, the guppy is a long favorite amongst aquarium enthusiasts worldwide.
Northern Red-Bellied Turtle

The Northern Red-Bellied Turtle is also referred to as the Northern Red-Bellied Cooter. These animals are generally shy and will hide when scared.
DoggoRamps Keeps Your Pet Safe From Back Injuries

As DoggoRamps is a fully adjustable dog ramp, it makes for a smooth ""climb"" to your bed, that won''t put any additional stress on your pet''s back.
How A Furry Thief Gobbled Our Thanksgiving Turkey And Started A New Tr

The “tail” of how a hungry Golden Retriever’s appetite for turkey brought about a new holiday custom Thanksgiving – otherwise known a…
Petco Officially Pulls All Made-in-China Treats From Shelves

Three cheers for Petco! They no longer sell any made in China pet treats, which could pose a health risk to our furry friends. As we reported last year, Pet…
Shar-Poo

The fun-loving Shar-Poo brings together the smarts of the Poodle with the devoted nature of the Chinese Shar-Pei for a great family dog.
What Should You Do If Your Dog Gets A Sunburn

What happens when Fido gets too much sun? The same thing that happens to his humans. It hurts! So, it’s important to know what to do if your dog gets t…
Dog Laws – Gracie’s Law Says Dogs More Than Property

When it comes to dog laws, not everyone in your house is treated equal. Your dog is a member of your family, not a piece of property.
Amazing Therapy Dogs Help Diabetics Live Healthier, Happier Lives

Is there anything dogs can’t do? Non-profit organization Dogs4Diabetics is training therapy dogs to detect low blood sugar. More and more, we’re…
Upside Down Dog Of The Week – Eddie

Say hello to Eddie, our Upside Down Dog of the Week from Upsidedowndogs.com. Eddie is a 10-month old male Beagle from Yorkshire. Here’s what his owner…
Adoptable Dog of the Week – Hulk

Meet Hulk, our Adoptable Dog of the Week. This 2-year-old German Shepherd is waiting patiently in Montgomery, Alabama, for his forever home.
5 Important Tips For Hiring a Dog Sitter

Even if you''re away for one night, your dog needs someone to look after him. Need someone to take over your pet parent duties? Time to find a dog sitter!